Richmond Spring In Iowa Has Some Of The Bluest Water In The State

Iowa skies and Iowa lakes and rivers are two of the many things we love about this state. And when the two come together – when a water surface reflects the deep blue sky – it creates an especially beautiful scene. But there are a few spots around Iowa that boast water so clear blue that it doesn’t need as much extra help from the sky.

Richmond Spring is one of them. This watery gem isn’t aquamarine only because it is reflecting the ring of sky above the surrounding rock ledge and trees; rather it is the way sunlight travels through these clear waters which gives them a bluish hue.

South IA / Tripadvisor

Relax on the edge of this spring-fed oasis in Backbone State Park, or even dip your legs into these cool 48°F waters on a hot summer day.

Kevin Schuchmann / Wikipedia

As you soak in the tranquility, you might peer into the water and discover it is alive. Water bubbles up through the floor of this pool, making puffs in the sand as it reaches daylight.

Amanda / Tripadvisor

Passing between the pools and climbing up the rocks on the far side yields a perch to peer down into these cool waters for another take on the scenery. The flow in this spring is no trickle; every minute you could fill 400 five gallon pails from this amazing spring.

SSAubie / Tripadvisor

Access is a simple stroll from a parking area across a trail and mown grass. The spring is located on the north side of the park with a picnic shelter nearby the parking area.

Victoria Drew / Google Maps

Wander around the surrounding grassy area and find a dozen or so old stone rings scattered about you. You are standing on the site where the waters of Richmond Spring used to flow - the oldest fish hatchery in Iowa, built by the Conservation Corps who started their work in the park in the 1920s.

safechrisLaurie / Tripadvisor

Camping is available within the wider park and there are many trails to explore nearby. One trail is the backbone itself: a swath of Dolomite rock 10 feet wide with a 100ft drop off on either side! This is Iowa’s oldest state park and the handiwork of the Conservation Corps can be seen in many of the buildings more than 100 years later. For another natural wonder to explore in Iowa, check out this article.