The Maquoketa Caves State Park, with a varied assortment of 14 caves, is a great place for novice spelunkers to satisfy their curiosity. The Iowa park land was purchased in 1921 and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) provided the first main park infrastructure in 1930. The corps handiwork is still viable today, with a lodge, the Dancehall Cave walkway and park's picnic area.
     Some of the larger caves provide easy access, while smaller ones require a hands and knees approach. Ancient stool tools, pottery and spear points indicate that these caves were once human shelters, thousands of years ago.
     Among the limestone formations and cliffs is this natural bridge, spanning the tame Raccoon Creek. Stairs provide easy access to the arch, caves and a 17 ton balanced rock.