July 2025 Department Updates
Things have been buzzing at Des Moines County Conservation! Here’s a quick look back at recent highlights and a preview of what’s coming next.Jacklyn Wolken, Conservation Technician
Holiday Hours & Fireworks
The Nature Center and Office will be closed for the 4th of July, but we’ll be open for visitors from 12–4 PM on Saturday and Sunday.
Fireworks are not allowed in any county park.
Looking to catch a fireworks show? Here are a few local options:
- July 3 – After the Bees game at Community Field
- July 5 – 10 PM in Downtown West Burlington
- July 5 – At dusk in Sperry
- July 12 – 8-10 PM in Crapo Park
Upcoming Events
July 8 | Starr’s Cave Park & Preserve
Make your Tuesday night an adventure! Des Moines County Conservation invites you to Starr’s Cave Night; a free, family-friendly event filled with nature, excitement, and s’mores. Meet us at the amphitheater at 6 PM for an evening led by Naturalist Shania. You’ll enjoy a cozy campfire, roast marshmallows, and meet one of our animal ambassadors. It’s the perfect way to spend a summer evening! Register now!
Woodland Warrior Challenge Run 2.0
August 2 | Hunt Woods Recreation Area
Get ready to crawl, climb, and conquer! The Woodland Warrior Challenge is back with a fun (and muddy) obstacle course designed for all experience levels. Whether you’re prepping for a Tough Mudder or just looking for a fun way to spend your Saturday morning, this event has something for everyone. Prefer to skip certain obstacles? No problem, alternate routes are available at each obstacle. Service animals only. Event runs 9–11 AM. Register here!
June Highlights
Outdoor Youth Jamboree
Around 250 people gathered at Big Hollow Recreation Area for a full day of outdoor adventure! Kids and their families explored archery, fishing, canoeing, shooting sports, and more—building new skills and creating lasting memories. The event also offered a great opportunity to connect families with local conservation organizations and the many outdoor resources available in our area.
Burlington River Days
Over 14,000 people visited the riverfront during this three-day celebration! The event was a huge success, raising over $20,000 for the Partners for Conservation Foundation and another $4,000 for local conservation organizations through the River Days Olympics. Planning for 2026 is already underway!
Camps in Full Swing
Summer camps kicked off in June with Shania and Trevor leading the charge! Campers have splashed in Flint Creek, tracked wildlife, paddled at Big Hollow, searched for bugs, played endless games, and so much more. We can’t wait to see what the rest of summer brings.
Thank You, Aron
June marked the wrap-up of the CORES (Community Outdoor Recreation Education Specialist) position. During his time with us, Aron launched and led impactful programming, from 5K run/walks, trail cleanups, disability outreach, disc golf, fishing clinics, and our first-ever half marathon! His work helped expand access to outdoor recreation and build strong community connections. Thank you, Aron!
Field Staff
The field crew has been hard at work keeping our parks safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone. From repairing boat docks, maintaining trails, cleaning restrooms, patrolling the parks, and much more. We’re thankful for their dedication, especially during these hot summer days!
Starr's Cave Nature Center Water Update
There is still currently no water in the nature center, so the restrooms and drinking fountains are unavailable, but we are still open. We do have pit toilets right outside the building if needed. The Nature Center is open on weekends from 12–4 PM through September. During the week, our exhibits are available Monday–Friday from 7 AM–3 PM, and the office is open 7 AM–3:30 PM. Come visit, check out the exhibits, and enjoy a peaceful day in the park.
New Archery Range at Starr’s Cave
Big things are happening at Starr’s Cave! Construction is underway on a brand-new archery range that will be used for future programs. We can’t wait to launch this new addition and start practicing our aim!
We hope to see you out in your county parks this summer!!
published Wednesday, June 18, 2025
