There are several distinctive features of loess hills topography. Because of the fine texture of the soil, deep, steep-sided and very narrow ridge tops have been eroded in the hills. Since the soil drains rapidly, nearly vertical cuts can be made in the soil without erosion. Named for Chief Waubonsie of the Native American Pottawattamie tribe, the park is much the same today as it was when it was purchased in 1926. The changing seasons complement the beauty of this countryside.
Spring brings the blossoms of dozens of varieties of flowers and shrubs.
Summer beckons with cooling breezes on the high places and in shady glens. Nowhere in Iowa are there more brilliant splashes of color than at Waubonsie in the fall, and in the winter the bluffs and ridges are sometimes beautifully blanketed with snow. Nearby Towns Sidney is 6 miles north and is Iowa's largest continuous outdoor rodeo and is held during July. Hamburg is 9 miles south of the park. Nebraska City is 9 miles west across the Missouri River in Nebraska and is the home of J. Sterling Morton, founder of Arbor Day.