Viewing and touring the mill is just one of many activities available at Motor Mill Historic Site. Kayaking, camping, horseback riding, hiking, exploring, wildlife watching – there is something for everyone!
Camping
Eight campsites are available to campers on a first come first serve basis at Motor Mill. Campsites are available at nominal fee. Campers are asked to self register upon arrival to the campsite.
Canoeing & Kayaking
A popular boat ramp is located at Motor Mill near the campground. The Turkey River offers a great paddling experience with Motor Mill located about 5.5 miles downstream from Elkader. From Motor Mill one can continue paddling to the town of Garber, which is another 11.5 miles. You will have opportunities for viewing wildlife and good fishing as you travel along the Turkey River.
Geocaching
Geocachers have discovered Motor Mill as one stop in a series of caches. A container with a sign-in notebook and simple trinkets inside was hidden at Motor. The coordinates of the container are posted on a geocache website and searchers bearing GPS (Global Positioning System) units often come to test their skill.
Hiking
Motor Mill Historic Site has over 4 miles of trails throughout this 155 acre park. With trails on both the north and south sides of the river, one can hike through forests, prairies, and savanna to find breathtaking views from the blufftops and abundant wildlife. The south trail system also provides equestrian use and limited hunting by permit during the hunting season.