Buchanan County, Iowa is not all about hard work in business and education. There are plenty of recreational opportunities to fill free time. The Wapsipinicon River runs southeast through the hearts of Fairbank, Independence and Quasqueton. This natural asset makes it a “hot spot” for summer and winter activities. Along the river are several campgrounds, trails for all activities, boat access, golf courses, an amphitheater, and the banks play host to the Annual 4th of July Celebration in Independence.

Additional sites to visit include the Old Order Amish communities in the northwest part of the county, south of Hazleton visit the Fontana Nature Center, the Walter Home (Cedar Rock), a Frank Lloyd Wright designed home near Quasqueton, and many parks throughout the county.

Independence is home to the historic Illinois Central Depot, which is home to the Buchanan County Tourism and Visitors Center, the Wapsipinicon Mill, Lee Mansion, Heartland Acres Agribition Center, and the Buchanan County Fair. There are many other unique spots to visit along the way in Buchanan County and the Cedar Valley.

There are also dozens of hometown diners, cafes, bars & grills, pizzerias, and franchise restaurants in every town, so stop into the local Chamber of Commerce for a list of each town’s favorite spots. For your visiting friends, family and business associates there are various lodging opportunities from national chain hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts along the Wapsipinicon River.

If you are looking for something more recreational, there are also various facilities in the county, including camping (county parks, Independence RV Park, or Independence RV Park), public swimming pools, and public and private exercise facilities. Iowa weather allows for a variety of year round activities. The summer is normally hot and humid, and the Wapsipinicon River becomes a great place to cool off with boating, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. The Wapsipinicon River also has the best Water Trail Route in the state! Other great summer activities include golf, sand volleyball, softball and of course going for a walk or bike ride throughout the county is always a possibility with the variety of bike paths along designated streets, highways and trails. Many communities also offer organized recreational programs for all ages. The 30 inches of average snowfall each winter allows for winter activities along the Wapsipinicon River such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

Please visit our 60 Minutes to Everything page to see all the entertainment within one hour of Buchanan County!