October 2026 Department Updates
October is a great time to get outside and enjoy the changing colors, attend a program, or explore a favorite trail. Here’s what’s happening around DMCC this month.Jacklyn Wolken, Conservation Technician
Upcoming Events
Big Holloween
October 10 | 4:30–7:00 PM | Big Hollow Recreation Area | Free
Halloween is coming to the campground! Join DMCC for Big Holloween, a free, all ages Halloween celebration featuring trick or treating among participating RVs, hayrack rides, and a costume contest.
You do not have to be camping at Big Hollow to participate. Everyone is welcome to come out, enjoy the festivities, and trick or treat through the campground.
The costume contest will begin at 6:00 PM. Participants are encouraged to come dressed in their best Halloween costume for a chance to show it off!
Before heading to Big Hollow, check out the Track or Treat event at 34 Raceway from 2:00–4:00 PM.
Explore Bowhunting Class
October 11 | 1:00–4:30 PM | Starr’s Cave Nature Center | Free
Flint River Archery Club is offering another FREE Explore Bowhunting Class for youth ages 9–15!
This fun, hands on program is a great opportunity for young people who want to learn more about bowhunting, the outdoors, and especially whitetail deer hunting. No previous hunting or archery experience is required.
Participants will spend part of the afternoon learning about bowhunting equipment, scouting, camouflage, scent, shot placement, and more. Then it’s time to head outside for hands on activities, including shooting at 3D and paper targets, practicing from ground blinds, and, time permitting, learning what it’s like to shoot from a tree stand.
No bow? No problem! Equipment can be provided, or participants are welcome to bring their own. Archers who have attended in previous years are also welcome to return.
Pre registration is required. Registration closes October 9 or when the class fills, whichever comes first.
LAG Fall Color Paddle: A Little Witchy
October 17 | 9:00–11:00 AM | Big Hollow Recreation Area | Fee applies
The leaves are changing, the water is calling, and the witches are coming out to paddle!
Ladies 18 and older are invited to join the Ladies Adventure Group at Big Hollow for a fall paddle surrounded by autumn colors and a little friendly witchy competition. Come dressed as a witch for a chance to win a fun prize!
Bring your own kayak or canoe, or rent equipment from DMCC. There are 4 two person canoes available to rent.
$15 with DMCC gear | $10 with your own gear
Fall Color Hike
October 27 | 5:30–6:30 PM | Starr’s Cave Nature Center | Free
Take in the colors of the season during a guided Fall Color Hike at Starr’s Cave!
Join Naturalist Shania as she leads participants through the trails while exploring the trees, fall foliage, and natural world around us. The hike is free and open to nature lovers of all ages.
The group will hike up to three miles, so comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing are recommended. Participants are encouraged to bring water, bug spray, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the fall scenery.
Registration is not required, but RSVPs are appreciated through RecDesk. In the event of inclement weather, the hike will be canceled.
Come enjoy the crisp fall air, colorful leaves, and beautiful trails at Starr’s Cave!
Starr’s Cave Nature Center
Fall and winter hours have arrived at Starr’s Cave Nature Center. The Nature Center is open 7:30 AM–3:00 PM Monday through Friday through the end of March.
Stop in and explore the exhibits to learn more about the plants and wildlife found throughout Des Moines County. Admission is free, making it a great stop for families before or after exploring the trails at Starr’s Cave.
September Recap
Annual monarch tagging was a success, with all 200 monarch tags being used. It was a great opportunity to learn more about monarch migration and contribute to a larger conservation effort.
Fall field trip season is also in full swing, with Naturalist Shania staying busy leading school groups through the parks and helping students connect with the outdoors.
The Ladies Adventure Group had a great turnout for its archery night, with 19 ladies participating. The group also recently held its Wellness Weekend at Big Hollow, giving participants a chance to spend time outdoors, try new activities, and enjoy the park.
Behind the scenes, the field crew has been busy as well. Recent work has included improvements along the Flint River Trail, moving river docks as needed, preparing for upcoming programs, and maintaining campgrounds, cabins, and trails to keep the parks ready for visitors.
Fall Favorites
Not sure where to catch the best fall colors this year? Des Moines County Parks offer plenty of places to slow down, explore, and take in the changing leaves. Here are a couple of favorite spots to add to your fall list!
Starr’s Cave Overlook
The overlook at Starr’s Cave, located just off Irish Ridge Road, is a favorite spot for taking in the colors of the season. A short walk leads to the overlook, where you can look out over the bluffs and trees of Starr’s Cave Park while enjoying a view of Flint Creek below. It’s a beautiful spot to stop for a few minutes and take in the scenery.
Big Hollow Recreation Area
For a different view of the fall colors, get out on the water at Big Hollow! Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle around the lake while surrounded by changing trees and fall scenery. The calm water offers a great way to experience the colors from a different perspective.
These are just a couple of favorite fall spots in Des Moines County Parks, but every park has its own seasonal beauty. Explore a new trail, take a scenic drive, or find a quiet spot to enjoy the changing landscape. Check out the DMCC park map to discover all of the conservation areas throughout the county.
Looking to explore beyond DMCC? Crapo Park in Burlington and Geode State Park near Danville are two other nearby spots to enjoy the colors of the season.
Follow DMCC on Facebook
Follow Des Moines County Conservation and Starr’s Cave Nature Center on Facebook to stay up to date on upcoming programs, event details, park updates, and everything happening throughout the county parks.
October is one of the best times of year to get outside. Grab a jacket, head to a trail, take in the changing leaves, and enjoy YOUR county parks!
published Monday, October 5, 2026
