Sitting along the banks of the Maquoketa River in the northeastern corner of the state, the city of Manchester, IA, is close to numerous beautiful parks and nature reserves where visitors can enjoy their favorite outdoor sports or simply take a break from the urban bustle. If you are exploring the region in your shiny 2022 Buick Enclave and are looking for new places to visit, these are three nearby destinations you should check out.
1. Schram Park
Open year-round between 5:00 am and 10:30 pm, Schram Park is a well-known weekend destination among Manchester locals and weekend travelers from all over the region. A large public recreation area featuring boat ramps, a beautiful nature trail, and designated fishing spots, this park is a perfect place to unwind and enjoy some time with your family or a group of friends.
Located a little over one and a half miles south of downtown Manchester, Schram Park can be reached in less than five minutes by car along 3rd Street. Once you make your way here, make sure to check out the beautiful picnic spots along the shores of the pond. If you are into boating, head to the recently constructed boat ramp along the banks of the Maquoketa River.
2. Backbone State Park
A sprawling nature reserve located a little over 10 miles northwest of downtown Manchester, Backbone State Park is an excellent destination for hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Spanning an area of about 1,400 acres, this state park was established in 1919 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in the early 1990s.
Getting from Manchester to the entrance of Backbone State Park takes about 15 minutes by car along routes IA-13 and 150th Street. Once you make your way to this beautiful nature reserve, don’t forget to check out some of its extensive hiking trails, the swimming beach along the shores of Backbone Lake, the scenic Richmond Springs area, and the Iowa Civilian Conservation Corps Museum.
3. Bailey’s Ford Park
Covering an area of about 170 acres along the banks of the Maquoketa River, Bailey’s Ford Park is another great destination for day-trippers wanting to explore the natural wonders that eastern Iowa has to offer. Featuring excellent facilities for river fishing, as well as camping areas, picnic shelters, and hiking trails, this place welcomes visitors from all over the state. Getting here from downtown Manchester takes less than 10 minutes by car along Jefferson Road.
If you are looking for a local dealership to buy a new or pre-owned vehicle and explore these fantastic destinations, visit us today at Bob Stephen Motors! One of our sales agents will be happy to help you find the best deal.


