Pin Oak Wildlife Area


The Pin Oak Wildlife Area is located 2 miles southeast of Manchester in section 4, 5 and 9 of Milo Township (T88N-R5W), Delaware County Iowa.

In March of 1967 the Delaware County Conservation Board recognized the importance to establish a green belt corridor following the Maquoketa River from Manchester to Baileys Ford. With this goal in mind, the Conservation Board purchased 100 acres southeast of Manchester along the Maquoketa River. In 1980 an additional 3 acres adjoining this area on the northwest corner was donated to the Delaware County Conservation.

The 103-acre property consists of river bottom and bluffs along the east and north banks of the river. The area is predominately forest vegetation.

In the mid to late 1800’s this area was also known to early settlers. An old ford with a hard rock bottom allowed pioneer stage coaches, wagons and settlers to cross the river as a shortcut route to Manchester from Dubuque to Quasqueton. This ford can be located yet today.

In October of 1999 County Conservation established access to the Maquoketa River by installing a canoe ramp and parking lot. The Pin Oak Access has become an important launch as part of the Maquoketa River Water Trail which was designated in 2016. This river access is approximately midway from Manchester to Baileys Ford and allows canoers, kayakers, tubers and fishermen a convenient place to exit or enter the river.

The public can also access the developed hiking trails which follow the river along the southern portion of the property.

Hunting is allowed in accordance with Iowa DNR and Delaware County Conservation hunting regulations.

Delaware County Conservation continues to manage the Pin Oak Wildlife Area as a greenbelt corridor providing wildlife habitat and recreational use for the public.



Location

2291  185th Ave

Manchester, IA



Features

The natural rea amenities include:

  • Hiking Trails
  • Canoe and Kayak Access
  • Hunting and Trapping
  • Wildlife Observation

 



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.