Brushy Creek State Recreation Area Timber Access Loop
Timber roads through hardwood hills and creek fords
Most folks stick to the main trails at Brushy Creek, but the old timber access roads that snake through the northern sections tell a different story. These unmarked routes follow century-old logging paths through oak and hickory stands, crossing Brushy Creek’s tributaries at rocky fords that’ll scrape your skid plates if you’re not careful. The highlight is Devil’s Backbone Ridge, a narrow limestone outcrop that offers views across the Des Moines River valley through gaps in the canopy.
This isn’t technical wheeling, but it demands respect for wet conditions and seasonal creek levels. Any high-clearance vehicle handles the dry sections fine, but spring runoff turns those creek crossings into commitment moves. Best tackled fall through early spring when the timber crews aren’t active and you won’t get locked behind a logging truck. No permits required, but dispersed camping is limited to designated areas only.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1150 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | High clearance recommended |
| Nearest town | Webster City, Iowa |
| Land manager | Iowa Department of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock SUV handle the creek crossings and timber roads?
High clearance is recommended due to ruts and rocks on the timber roads. The creek crossings are typically shallow but can have muddy approaches that benefit from 4WD and ground clearance.
Why is spring and summer not recommended for this trail?
Wet seasons turn the dirt timber roads into muddy, rutted messes and creek crossings become deeper and more challenging. Fall through early spring offers firmer ground conditions.
Do I need a permit to drive the timber access roads?
No permit required, but the trail uses active timber management roads that may have seasonal closures during logging operations. Check with Iowa DNR before your trip.
What's the most difficult part of this loop?
The creek crossings can be tricky when water levels are up, with slippery limestone bottoms and soft approaches. The timber roads also have some steep, rutted sections through the hills.
Can I camp along the trail and is there cell service for emergencies?
Dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas, but cell service is spotty throughout the recreation area. Download offline maps and inform someone of your plans before heading out.