Delaware

The Hardscrabble Wildlife Area is located 1.5 miles southwest of Hopkinton in section 24 and 25 of South Fork Township (T87N-R-4W) Delaware County, Iowa.

In 1964 Delaware County Conservation purchased 42.5 acres and established what is now the Hardscrabble Wildlife Area. This is a narrow tract of land running for over a mile along the bluffs overlooking the Maquoketa River.

The entrance road (275th Ave) and the Maquoketa River forms the east boundary, with limestone bluffs rising 90 feet above the road. In addition, the area consists of short, steep ravines making it unsuitable for farming.

The diverse flora and fauna help protect this fragile area from erosion. Walking ferns can be found along the north faces of the rock outcropping as well as a diverse hardwood timber covering the entire area.

A point of interest known as Wildcat Rock is located on the northern edge of the property. Who knows maybe a bobcat or two can still be found here.

In 2019, Delaware County Conservation received a 1.8 acre land donation from the Gates Family. This adjoining parcel is an addition to the parking lot on the southeast corner of the property giving the public access to the Maquoketa River. In 2020, through a grant from the Dubuque Racing Association, County Conservation has installed a kayak/canoe launch to the river.

Paddlers who put in at Dunlap Park at Hopkinton can do a short 1.8 mile trip to the Hardscrabble Access or those wanting a longer day on the river can launch here and travel to Monticello or further down river to Picture Rocks Access.

Hardscrabble Wildlife Area provides a diversity of outdoor opportunities for public recreation and enjoyment.

Location

3165  275th Avenue

Hopkinton, IA

Features

The natural area amenities include:

• Canoe and Kayak Access
• Hunting and Trapping

Operating Hours & Seasons

This natural area is open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm

Closures

All parks and natural areas remain open all year. However, facilities are closed to vehicle traffic and allow only walk-in access during the late fall and winter season. Parks with campground are usually open from mid-April through mid-October.