Calendar

Hike A Park - Denning Conservation Area

Des Moines County Conservation invites you to Hike A Park at Denning Conservation Area in Lee County on October 11th at 4:00 PM. Join Lee County naturalist Clay Steele to explore the reconstructed tall-grass prairie and adjacent wildlife habitat at Denning Conservation Area, a state-owned, county-managed property. Over 99.9% of Iowa’s original prairies are gone, making this a unique opportunity to experience first-hand an example of this now rare native landscape.  

This event is open to everyone, regardless of experience level—from beginners to seasoned hikers—and you’re welcome to leave the hike at any time. No registration or fee is required. Free carpooling is available; reserve your spot by calling 319-753-5808. This park is located at 1640 130th St, Donnellson, IA 52625.

Please dress for the weather, wear sturdy walking shoes, bring layers, sun protection, and a water bottle. For more information, check out the Starr’s Cave Nature Center Facebook page or contact our naturalist, Jacklyn, at 319-572-1508. We look forward to hitting the trails with you!

Posted by: Conservation

Big Holloween

Come celebrate Halloween in the Campground! This all-ages public event will feature trick-or-treating among the participating RV's and costume contests at Big Hollow Recreation Area three miles west of Sperry.

You do not have to camp at the park to participate. Everyone is invited to participate in the events and trick-or-treat among the RV's.

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Trick or Treating and hayrack rides in the Campground

Costume Contest at 6:00 PM

Posted by: Conservation

Emergency Management Commission Meeting

Posted by: Emergency Management Agency

Starr's Cave Fall Color Hike 1

Join us for the Starr’s Cave Fall Color Hike, taking place on Thursday, October 17th, from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M., an event perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Mark your calendars for two additional fall color hikes scheduled for October 24th and October 29th, where the group will embark on a scenic trek of up to three miles, offering a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and expand your knowledge. Attendees are encouraged to bring essentials such as water, bug spray, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Please note that in case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled, and registration is required; you can RSVP by calling Starr’s Cave at (319) 753-5808. We look forward to seeing you on October 17th!

Posted by: Conservation

Starr's Cave Fall Color Hike 2

Join us for the Starr’s Cave Fall Color Hike, taking place on Thursday, October 24th, from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M., an event perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages. This free, expert-led tour will be guided by Lisa Louck, a DNR Forester, who will share her insights on various tree species, the science behind seasonal color changes, and more, allowing participants to engage and ask questions throughout the hike. Mark your calendars for an additional fall color hike scheduled for October 29th, where the group will embark on a scenic trek of up to three miles, offering a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and expand your knowledge. Attendees are encouraged to bring essentials such as water, bug spray, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Please note that in case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled, and registration is required; you can RSVP by calling Starr’s Cave at (319) 753-5808. We look forward to seeing you on October 24th!

Posted by: Conservation

Starr's Cave Fall Color Hike 3

Join us for the Starr’s Cave Fall Color Hike, taking place on Tuesday, October 29th, from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M., an event perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages. This free, expert-led tour will be guided to share insights on various tree species, the science behind seasonal color changes, and more, allowing participants to engage and ask questions throughout the hike. Attendees are encouraged to bring essentials such as water, bug spray, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Please note that in case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled, and registration is required; you can RSVP by calling Starr’s Cave at (319) 753-5808. We look forward to seeing you on October 29th!

Posted by: Conservation