Harpers Ferry, IA

Travel Guide

Bordered by the Mississippi River, this picturesque village is the gateway to western Iowa’s outdoor attractions.

With a population of less than 400, Harpers Ferry has authentic small-town charm. It’s also one of Allamakee County’s oldest villages and provides a glimpse of Mississippi River towns of the past.

Stroll through the town center to explore the historic architecture and storefronts. Each Friday during summer and autumn, growers and artisans gather for the farmers market, which showcases local produce and crafts. Take a break to enjoy a meal and view at a waterfront restaurant or bar. Savor your favorite drink and watch the reflection of the sunset in the flowing waters.

Explore the Mississippi aboard a river cruise. Sit back and relax as your guide tells you about the region’s local history and enjoy unparalleled views of the waterfront. Harpers Ferry’s recreational activities are largely centered on the river. Go swimming, fishing, tubing, canoeing or kayaking. Rental facilities are available in the downtown area.

Harpers Ferry is primarily an outdoor enthusiast’s destination. Yellow River State Forest borders the town to the west and offers a pristine landscape ideal for camping or hiking. The area is known as a prime trout fishing destination and is visited by anglers from all over the Midwest. Trails snake through Yellow River State Forest and make it an excellent place to bike or hike.

Explore the history of Harpers Ferry’s first inhabitants at Effigy Mounds National Monument, an ancient Native American burial ground. The prehistoric site features the biggest concentrations of burial mounds found in the United States, with effigies shaped like birds, bears and other animals. The Visitor’s Center has exhibits showcasing the unique history of the site. Take a guided tour of the mounds or embark on a solo adventure using the miles of trails running throughout the park.

Harpers Ferry sits on the eastern border of Iowa, just over two hours by car from Madison, Wisconsin. Travel the Great River Road, following the Mississippi an hour north to La Crosse for beautiful waterfront scenery.

Log Cabin next to the Mississippi River

Log Cabin next to the Mississippi River

Harpers Ferry
Stay at this cabin in Harpers Ferry. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Delphey Island and Bluffview Park are located nearby.
9.4/10 Exceptional! (83 reviews)
"Our stay was absolutely amazing! The cabin was cozy , comfortable, and private. We enjoyed sitting on the porch and playing games. We brought our fur baby who enjoyed the outside area."

Reviewed on Oct 7, 2025

Log Cabin next to the Mississippi River
Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi

Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi

Harpers Ferry
Stay at this cabin in Harpers Ferry. Enjoy patios, cable/satellite TV service, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Noble's Island and Waukon Junction ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (18 reviews)
"Great property accurate listing.Others have remarked about curtains there are curtains in bathroom and bed rooms."

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025

Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi
Longview Lodge 6 Bedrooms with Hot Tub & Swimming Pond, firepit, & pool table

Longview Lodge 6 Bedrooms with Hot Tub & Swimming Pond, firepit, & pool table

Harpers Ferry
$375 nightly
The price is $419 total per night from Oct 17 to Oct 18
$419 total
Oct 17 - Oct 18
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly cabin in Harpers Ferry. Enjoy private pools, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Bluffview Park and Harpers ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (14 reviews)
"Could be a little cleaner, & they could have had more paper products. That being said-it was a beautiful property & we truly had the best time!! It was a little chilly so couldn’t use the pool pond much-but still so much to do!! We would 100% recommend it & would definitely return!"

Reviewed on Sep 10, 2025

Longview Lodge 6 Bedrooms with Hot Tub & Swimming Pond, firepit, & pool table
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi

Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi

Harpers Ferry
Stay at this cabin in Harpers Ferry. Enjoy patios, cable/satellite TV service, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Noble's Island and Waukon Junction ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (18 reviews)
"Great property accurate listing.Others have remarked about curtains there are curtains in bathroom and bed rooms."

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025

Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi
Longview Lodge 6 Bedrooms with Hot Tub & Swimming Pond, firepit, & pool table

Longview Lodge 6 Bedrooms with Hot Tub & Swimming Pond, firepit, & pool table

Harpers Ferry
Book a stay at this family-friendly cabin in Harpers Ferry. Enjoy private pools, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Bluffview Park and Harpers ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (14 reviews)
"Could be a little cleaner, & they could have had more paper products. That being said-it was a beautiful property & we truly had the best time!! It was a little chilly so couldn’t use the pool pond much-but still so much to do!! We would 100% recommend it & would definitely return!"

Reviewed on Sep 10, 2025

Longview Lodge 6 Bedrooms with Hot Tub & Swimming Pond, firepit, & pool table
Log Cabin next to the Mississippi River

Log Cabin next to the Mississippi River

Harpers Ferry
Stay at this cabin in Harpers Ferry. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Delphey Island and Bluffview Park are located nearby.
9.4/10 Exceptional! (83 reviews)
"Our stay was absolutely amazing! The cabin was cozy , comfortable, and private. We enjoyed sitting on the porch and playing games. We brought our fur baby who enjoyed the outside area."

Reviewed on Oct 7, 2025

Log Cabin next to the Mississippi River
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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