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! (75 reviews)
Short get away!
"We had a great stay! Beautiful cabin and yard. Had everything we needed and more. And love that we could bring our dog!"

Reviewed on Jun 27, 2025

Log Cabin next to the Mississippi River
Wexford Hollow... 6 Bedroom Cabin W/Pool & Hot Tub
Wexford Hollow... 6 Bedroom Cabin W/Pool & Hot Tub
Lansing
$337 nightly
The price is $377 total per night from Jul 27 to Jul 28
$377 total
Jul 27 - Jul 28
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this cabin in Harpers Ferry. Enjoy private pools, laundry facilities, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Immaculate Conception - Wexford Church ...
Wexford Hollow... 6 Bedroom Cabin W/Pool & Hot Tub
Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi
Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi
Harpers Ferry
$236 nightly
The price is $264 total per night from Jul 13 to Jul 14
$264 total
Jul 13 - Jul 14
Total includes taxes and fees
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! (11 reviews)
Nice cabin that could use a few upgrades
"Really nice cabin overall. Was surprised that the main floor had no window coverings - cabin is pretty secluded, but a bit more privacy would have been nice.Hot tub was a great temperature, but only about 20% of the jets seemed to be doing anything. Also was a bit of a pain to bring our own bedding ..."

Reviewed on May 7, 2025

Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi
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! (11 reviews)
Nice cabin that could use a few upgrades
"Really nice cabin overall. Was surprised that the main floor had no window coverings - cabin is pretty secluded, but a bit more privacy would have been nice.Hot tub was a great temperature, but only about 20% of the jets seemed to be doing anything. Also was a bit of a pain to bring our own bedding ..."

Reviewed on May 7, 2025

Black Bear A-Frame Waterfront Log Cabin with Hot Tub Jacuzzi
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! (75 reviews)
Short get away!
"We had a great stay! Beautiful cabin and yard. Had everything we needed and more. And love that we could bring our dog!"

Reviewed on Jun 27, 2025

Log Cabin next to the Mississippi River
Wexford Hollow... 6 Bedroom Cabin W/Pool & Hot Tub
Wexford Hollow... 6 Bedroom Cabin W/Pool & Hot Tub
Lansing
Stay at this cabin in Harpers Ferry. Enjoy private pools, laundry facilities, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Immaculate Conception - Wexford Church ...
Wexford Hollow... 6 Bedroom Cabin W/Pool & Hot Tub
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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