Delaware County, Iowa

Delaware County stretches across northeastern Iowa’s dairy country, featuring a peaceful landscape of farms and small communities. Manchester, the county seat, is known for Manchester Whitewater Park, which features an approximately 800-foot-long whitewater course popular with outdoor enthusiasts.

Backbone State Park, Iowa’s oldest state park, offers excellent opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and outdoor recreation. Delaware County combines small-town charm with outdoor adventure, making it an appealing destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and activity.

U.S. Highway 20 provides convenient access through the county and connects its communities with the surrounding region. With its welcoming atmosphere, rural landscapes, and recreational attractions, Delaware County showcases the character of rural Iowa living and offers an enjoyable setting for a weekend getaway.

CategoryDetails
County NameDelaware County
County SeatManchester
EtymologyNamed after the Delaware tribe of Native Americans
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesManchester, Dyersville, Earlville, Edgewood, Hopkinton, Colesburg, Luxemburg, Delhi
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. Highway 20, Iowa Highway 13, Iowa Highway 3
FIPS Code19-055
Total Area (Land and Water)589 square miles (land: 586 sq mi, water: 3 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Buchanan County (West), Clayton County (North), Dubuque County (East), Fayette County (Northwest), Jones County (Southeast), Linn County (Southwest)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST)
StateIowa
Coordinates42.51°N, 91.47°W
Major LandmarksBackbone State Park, Dyersville Commercial Historic District, Manchester Fish Hatchery
Population19,000
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