Exploring & Camping Maquoketa Caves

Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa is a caving gem! About 13 caves can be found in the park, some of which can be explored by walking, while others are better suited for serious spelunkers who enjoy crawling in tight spaces. Outdoor Pursuits will spend the weekend exploring the park’s trails, bluffs, and caves. We will camp at a nearby county campground. All equipment, transportation, food, and lodging are included in the price. All participants must attend a mandatory pre-trip meeting the week of. Registration closes on 10/2 at 3pm.

CAMPING EXPERIENCE: Previous camping experience is not required. Outdoor Pursuits trip leaders will teach all outdoor living skills – building a fire, cooking, setting up a tent, Leave No Trace ethics, and more. Everyone is expected to help with all of these outdoor living skills on a daily basis.
CAMPSITES: Rustic tent campsites that include setting up a waterproof tent on the ground with a foam sleeping and sleeping bag. Everyone will share a tent with 1-3 other participants.
BATHROOMS: The campground has bathroom facilities with flush toilets and sinks. Some hiking trails may only have vault toilets, similar to a porta potty.
CELL PHONE RECEPTION: Cell phone reception is not guaranteed. The trip leaders will have a satellite phone for emergency communication and check ins.

There is an option to pay a $50 deposit at checkout – the remainder of the balance must be paid online or in person at Outdoor Pursuits before the pre-trip meeting. For more information or to request accommodations, please email hmurphy@uwm.edu. Trip full? Complete this form to be added to the Trip Waitlist.