Go on an Art Adventure – visit parks and trails in Polk County with your treasure map in hand following clues to beautiful art pieces in nature! In celebration of Art Week (June 19-26)!
UPDATE: MAY 27, 2020 | Parks, trails, and campgrounds are open! Read below for the most up-to-date COVID-19 notifications.
The Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, in conjunction with the Iowa Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, is hosting an online public meeting for the Des Moines River Activation and Possible Dam Modification Project.
Looking for an excuse to get out of the house, make some new friends, enjoy a good meal and learn about the exciting world of nature? Then join us! These programs are held the first Tuesday of each month. An optional luncheon follows the program at noon.
Pack your picnic lunch, blanket and bring our family for an hour of nature stories and activities with a naturalist. Enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, munch your lunch, listen to a story or two and discover new natural areas with your children.
Let your imagination run wild with this fun, nature-themed story time! Hear a story followed by the naturalist’s choice of an activity such as an animal encounter, puppets or a craft.
Hot off the press – the newest edition of Nature News is now available online! Find out what is going on in your favorite park and what events and programs are taking place May through August here.
Sit around the campfire as we discuss the wild nightlife in Jester Park. A short hike will follow as we search for some of these nocturnal creatures.
While the way we interact with others may be a little different right now in our world, the importance of getting outdoors and interacting with nature remains the same. Let nature become your refuge during this difficult time.
Learn about the different kinds of fish in Iowa, fishing safety, casting, and how to tie a hook. It is Free Fishing Weekend in Iowa so no license is needed. Bait and poles will be provided. Feel free to a chair to sit in.
In honor of Earth Day, we are asking park patrons to bring a garbage bag and gloves to their favorite park or trail and help us keep these areas clean and prevent this waste from entering nearby waterways.
Explore the unique healing path of Shinrin Yoku or Japanese Forest bathing with Brandy Case-Haub, a certified forest guide. This mindful walk will invite you to use your senses to enhance your well-being.
