This site will be updated during the 2009 season as programs are added at the individual parks. Please check back for new activities. Call the park for more information on each program.

Click on a month and you will be taken to a list of events and programs that will be occurring throughout the park system.

January

Mines of Spain Recreation Area
Trade Silver-In Celebration of Dubuque's 175th Anniversary
When: Sunday, January 4, 2008 - 1:00 pm - Meet at EB Lyons Interpretive Center
What: Trade silver will be on display with information about its use. Learn about how people in the past used trade silver. Howard Higley will explain the origin.

Mines of Spain Recreation Area - Iowa's State Rock - Geodes
When: Sunday, January 18, 2008 - 1:00 pm - Meet at EB Lyons Interpretive Center
What: William G Hosford is a storyteller, author and photographer in Lisbon, Iowa. His presentation will introduce rocks, minerals and geodes to kids of all ages. Book signing for "Geo the Geode" will follow the presentation and question and answer session.

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February

Mines of Spain Recreation Area - Climate change on the Arctic's Edge
When: Sunday, February 8, 2008 - 1:00 pm - Meet at EB Lyons Interpretive Center
What: Dick Worm was a volunteer member of a research team for an Earthwatch Expedition, at the Churchill Northern Studies Centre, Churchill, Manitoba. Dick will talk about adding and collecting information to classify ice crystals and measure snow depth, temperature, hardness, density and other characteristics of climate conditions in temperatures ranging down to -40 degrees F.

Mines of Spain Recreation Area - Fur Traders of the Upper Mississippi River
When: Sunday, February 22, 2008 - 1:00 pm - Meet at EB Lyons Interpretive Center
What: Mark Wagner, Chief Interpreter from the Mississippi River Museum will talk about furs that Native Americans and Europeans used for trade. Samples will be on hand.

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March

Mines of Spain Recreation Area - Bird Banding and Bird Identification
When: Sunday, March 8, 2008 - 1:00 pm - Meet at EB Lyons Interpretive Center
What: Dave Shealer, Professor at Loras College, will provide a program on Bird Banding and Bird Identification. He will identify sex, weigh and measure, and also determine their health.

Mines of Spain Recreation Area - Digital Nature Photography
When: Sunday, March 22, 2008 - 1:00 pm - Meet at EB Lyons Interpretive Center
What: Ron Tigges has been a photographer in the Tri-State area for over 35 years. Digital photos of nature, landscapes and wildlife will be displayed as well as a discussion of camera techniques, locations, and digital manipulations.

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April

Cedar Rock State Park - Clean-Up
When: Saturday, April 4, 2009 - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
What: Come spend a few hours helping the Walter House wake up from a sleepy winter season. Projected tasks might include trimming shrubs, removing mulch, picking-up branch litter, and removing the snow fence. Volunteers should meet at the Cedar Rock visitor center. Questions can be directed to cedar_rock@dnr.iowa.gov or by calling the park office at 319-934-3572. Inclement weather date is Monday, April 6, 2009.

Brushy Creek State Recreation Area - Cache-In Trash-Out
When: Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
What: Want to look for hidden treasures? Then this will be your chance. A Cache In-Trash Out Event consists of using GPS units to search for hidden treasures while picking up trash along the way. This CITO Event will start at the Prairie Resource Building (base camp), south of the park office. At base camp you will be given instruction for those new to the sport, rules and coordinates for the day. Eveyone is welcome to attend, beginners to advanced, children thru adult. Please bring gloves, GPS and data cable (if you have one), comfortable attire/shoes, and a water bottle. Garbage bags will be given out.

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May

Brushy Creek State Park - Annual Fishing Derby
When: Saturday, May 9, 2009 - 9:30 am - noon
What: Parents and grandparents - enter your child in the great experience on how to catch a fish. This event is open to anyone that wants to learn to fish. Fishing equipment, bait, snacks and helpers will be provided. Meet at the Fish Pier Point open shelter on the west side of the lake.

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June

Cedar Rock State Park - Candle Light Walk
When: Saturday, June 6, 2009 - 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
What: Celebrate the 142nd anniversary of Frank Lloyd Wright's upcoming birthday. Take this chance to enjoy the estate by luminary light. The typically inaccessible maid's quarters and boat pavilion will be open. Birthday refreshments will be served around a fire at the Walter House grounds. Guests meet at the Cedar Rock visitor center. Questions can be directed to cedar_rock@dnr.iowa.gov or by calling the park office at 319-934-3572.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Swift Swimmers
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, June 6, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Area Parking Lot. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Celebrate Iowa's Free Fishing weekend at the Mines of Spain Wetland! Learn all about the fish in the pond and river, some easy casing techniques and where the best places to fish are! Bring a fishin' pole if you have one! We'll bring the bait and some poles! (Out-of-state adults will need a fishing license).

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, June 6, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Interpretive Center for the Nature Center Trails hike (1-1/2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Prairie Rose State Park - Kids free fishing day
When: Saturday, June 6, 2009 - 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
What: Meet at the North Shelter. Kids ages 0 - 14 fishing contest and casting contest. Prizes will be awarded. Children must be accompanied by an adults. Refreshments will be served. Hosted by the Friends of Prairie Rose State Park.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Canoe Trips
When: Sunday, June 7, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch. All outings are weather dependent. No reservations. Please bring sunscreen and water. Canoes, paddles, life jackets and a canoeing lesson will be provided. There is limited space, first come/first serve. Call park office at 563-556-0620 for details.

Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area - Pigman Sprint Triathlon
When: Sunday, June 7, 2009 - 7:00 am
What: Start and finish at the beach parking lot - Swim .5 K, bike 25 K, and run 5K. Registration forms and more information can be found at www.pigmantri-com.

Lewis and Clark State Park - Festival
When: Friday, June 12 - 14 2009 -
What: Join in the annual June festival celebration which will feature movies about the Lewis and Clark 1804 expedition, and appearance of buckskinners in frontier dress, bluegrass music and historic presentations. A major attraction at this annual event is the full-sized reproduction of Lewis and Clark's keelboat, Discovery, constructed by local volunteers and park staff.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Mammals of the Sky
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, June 13, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) What is the only mammal that can fly? The bat, of course! Learn about these fascinating creatures and even build a bat house!

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, June 13, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Area's parking lot for the Horseshoe Bluff Trail (3/4 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Orienteering - Father/Child Event
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, June 20, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at the Picnic Area. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Enjoy Father's Day in the park while learning about compass' and maps and playing map games!

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, June 20, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at Cattesse Hollow parking lot (continue on Olde Massey Road, past south entrance) for the Cattesse Hollow Trail (2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Canoe Trips
When: Sunday, June 21, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch. All outings are weather dependent. No reservations. Please bring sunscreen and water. Canoes, paddles, life jackets and a canoeing lesson will be provided. There is limited space, first come/first serve. Call park office at 563-556-0620 for details.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Geology
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, June 27, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at the Horsehoe Bluff Interpretive Area Parking Lot. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Rocks rock! Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist to discover the geology and history of the Horseshoe Bluff Quarry. Activities will include a rock hunt, geo games and a craft.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, June 27, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the south entrance parking lot (Olde Massey Rd entrance) for the Cedar Ridge Trail (1-1/2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

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July

Wapsipinicon State Park - Buffalo Fork Settlers Rendezvous
When: Friday, July 3, 2009 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
           Saturday, July 4, 2009 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
           Sunday, July 5, 2009 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
What: Experience a mid 1800's encampment. Demonstrated events include knife and hawk throwing, primitive archery, bull whips, fire starting and the candy canon (a favorite for kids of all ages). The public is invited to try their luck after the demonstrations.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Pioneer Games
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, July 4, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at the picnic area. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) enjoy a morning in the park playing the same games pioneer children played!

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Canoe Trips
When: Sunday, July 5, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch. All outings are weather dependent. No reservations. Please bring sunscreen and water. Canoes, paddles, life jackets and a canoeing lesson will be provided. There is limited space, first come/first serve. Call park office at 563-556-0620 for details.

Union Grove State Park - Cornman Triathlon
When: Sunday, July 5, 2009 - 9:00 am
What: This triathlon is a relay-style event for individuals as well as teams. Swim the 500M course which is an out and back swim from Union Grove State Park swimming beach. Boats and safety personnel will be on hand at the lake at all times. Bike the challenging 14 mile route that will take you around Union Grove Lake, through Iowa's scenic countryside and then back to the lake. All bikers must have an ANSI approved helmet to participate. Bikers without helmets will not be allowed on the race course. Run the 5k (3.1 mi) loop which includes several small, rolling hills, and one large hill within the confines of the park on paved roads. Aid stations with water and sports drink will be set up every mile. The race director, Todd Eipperle can be reached at 641-753-6938 or online at www.cornman.tamatoledo.net/index.html.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Bug Bingo
When: Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 1:00 pm
What: Come see what the buzz is about and play some bingo with a buggy twist. Meet in the lobby.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Finger Painting
When: Thursday, July 9, 2009 - 4:30 pm
What: Come experience all the neat things that can be painted just by using your fingerprints! Meet in the lobby.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Bugalicious
When: Friday, July 10, 2009 - 1:00 pm
What: Who said eating bugs was gross?! Join us as we make some yummy snacks that look like our most popular bugs. Meet in the lobby.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Tales Around the Fire
When: Friday, July 10, 2009 - 8:30 pm
What: Join us at the fire ring behind the resort to hear a story and sing a song about bugs!

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Insects
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, July 11, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Insects may be creepy crawlies, but they are cool to look at and learn about. Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist to discover the inside information on these 6 legged animals and to make your own insect cage!

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, July 11, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Interpretive Center for the Nature Center Trails hike (1-1/2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, July 11, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Interpretive Center for the Nature Center Trails hike (1-1/2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Calling all Bug Catchers!
When: Satursday, July 11, 2009 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet a bug catcher and go out with a DNR Interpreter to see how many bugs you can catch! Meet in the lobby.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Bug Bingo
When: Saturday, July 11, 2009 - 8:00 pm
What: Come see what the buzz is about and play some bingo with a buggy twist. Meet in the lobby.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Fantastic Fireflies
When: Saturday, July 11, 2009 - 9:00 pm
What: Meet in the lobby before we go outside to light up the night like the lightning bugs do. Loads of fun!

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Annual Butterfly County
When: Sunday, July 12, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the Hunter's Parking lot (2nd from south entrance). Partnered with the Dubuque Audubon Society and Dubuque County Conservation Board. Help with our annual Butterfly Count for the North American Butterfly Association. Be a part of research. ID books, nets and binoculars will be available. Come dressed for walking in tall grasses. Long pants and closed toed shoes recommended.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Meet a tree
When: Thursday, July 16, 2009 - 2:00 pm
What: Meet in the lobby and become acquainted with a tree like never before---it'll be your new best friend through a blindfold experience.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Mystery Bugs
When: Friday, July 17, 2009 - 3:30 pm
What: Swing by the lobby between 3:30 and 4:30 and see if you can figure out what is in the bags using only one of your five senses.

Black Hawk State Park - Summer Water Carnival
When: Friday, July 17, 2009
            Saturday, July 18, 2009
            Sunday, July 19, 2009
What: Located in the town bay area of Lake View. Local food stands, carnival rides, and free entertainment. Also kids parade, kids talent show, waffle feed, street parade, evening parade of floats on the lake, fireworks, Bill Riley talent show, mud volleyball and dragon boat races. Check at www.lakeview-ia.com (in May) for more specific schedule.

Backbone State Park - Christmas in July
When: Saturday, July 18 2009
What: Come and decorate your campsite in the spirit of Christmas and you don't have to freeze your fingers to hang those lights. There are prizes ranging from the Lampoons most lights to the Boone & Crocket biggest deer awards. There are games for the kids and a visit from Santa followed by horse drawn wagon rides. There is fun for everyone. Boat races start at 9:00 am at the Boat House and games in the South Lake Campground at 2:00 pm for the kids. For more information contact the park office at 563-924-2527.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Animal Tracks - Plaster
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, July 18, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Animals are sneaky creatures that leave us clues about who's just gone through an area. Put a face to the track by making (and taking home) your very own plaster animal tracks!

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, July 18, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Area's parking lot for the Horseshoe Bluff Trail (3/4 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - What's that smell?
When: Saturday, July 18, 2009 - 3:30 pm
What: Swing by the lobby between 3:30 and 4:30 to see if you can figure out what that mystery small is!

Honey Creek Resort State Park - I spy with my little eye
When: Saturday, July 18, 2009 - 7:00 pm
What: Come on a short hike to see if you can find the hidden objects in the surrounding brush. Meet in the lobby

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Canoe Trips
When: Sunday, July 19, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch. All outings are weather dependent. No reservations. Please bring sunscreen and water. Canoes, paddles, life jackets and a canoeing lesson will be provided. There is limited space, first come/first serve. Call park office at 563-556-0620 for details.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Pictures in the sky
When: Thursday, July 23, 2009 - 5:00 pm
What: Come check out what you can see, the sky's the limit! Meet in the lobby.

Ledges State Park - Christmas in July
When: Friday, July 24 2009
            Saturday, July 25, 2009
What: Decorate your campsite with a Christmas theme to compete for prizes sponsored by the Friends of the Ledges,Inc. Interpretive programs will be put on by the Ledges Naturalist. The Ledges Night Officer will judge the campsites to determine winner.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Come get blown away
When: Friday, July 24, 2009 - 1:00 pm
What: Meet in the lobby and we'll make some fun wind-powered crafts!

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Rain Sticks
When: Friday, July 24, 2009 - 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
What: Stop by the lobby and make a rain stick!

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Tales around the fire
When: Friday, July 24, 2009 - 8:00 pm
What: Bring your rain sticks and we'll have a story and a song. Meet at the fire ring behind the resort.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Animal Tracks - Part 2
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, July 25, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Part 2 of animal tracks! Please bring a solid, light colored t-shirt or bandanna.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Winter in July
When: Saturday, July 25, 2009 - 2:00 pm
What: Snowflakes and snowmen in July?! Come check it out - meet in the lobby.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, July 25, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Julien Dubuque Monument for the Monument to Center trail (2 mi round trip). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Twister!!!
When: Saturday, July 25, 2009 - 4:00 pm
What: Meet in the lobby and get blown away with tornado fun!

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Star gazing!
When: Saturday, July 25, 2009 - 9:15 pm
What: Meet in the lobby and we'll take and walk and check out the twinkling night sky.

Prairie Rose State Park - Carp Tournament
When: Saturday, July 25, 2009 - Registration starts at 9:00 am
            Sunday, July 26, 2009 - Tournament ends at noon
What: $1.00 entry fee. Adult and youth divisions. Rod and reel and Bow categories. All carp must be caught in the main lake. For more information contact the park office at 712-773-2701. Prizes will be awarded. The Shelby County Naturalist will be giving a program on eagles. She will have a live Bald Eagle with her. All unclaimed carp meat will go towards feeding the eagle.

Prairie Rose State Park - Pancake Breakfast
When: Sunday, July 26, 2009 - 8 AM - 11:00 AM
What: Meet at the park office for a great pancake breakfast hosted by the Friends of Prairie Rose State Park. Free will donation. Proceeds will go towards park improvements.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Snakes and Snakes
When: Sunday, July 26, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 PM
What: Meet at the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center and learn about what snakes live at the Mines of Spain and where you might find them. Live snakes will be on hand for you to see.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Basic Campfire Cooking
When: Thursday, July 30, 2009 - 7:00 pm
What: Meet at the fire ring behind the resort to learn how to make some delicious treats over the fire.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - S'mores and Songs
When: Thursday, July 30, 2009 - 8:30 pm
What: Meet behind the resort at the fire ring for s'mores and some songs.

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August

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Spiders
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, August 1, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) What has 8 legs, 2 body segments and are totally cool? Spiders, of course! Learn about these web makers through games, a spider story and a spidery craft!

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Canoe Trips
When: Sunday, August 2, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch. All outings are weather dependent. No reservations. Please bring sunscreen and water. Canoes, paddles, life jackets and a canoeing lesson will be provided. There is limited space, first come/first serve. Call park office at 563-556-0620 for details.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, August 1, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Interpretive Center for the Nature Center Trails hike (1-1/2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Black Hawk State Park - Carp Fishing Contest
When: Saturday, August 8, 2009 and Sunday, August 9, 2009
What: Registration is required and there is a $5.00 fee for adults and $3.00 for kids (12 and under). Ten tagged carp, each worth $1000.00 cash, will be there for the catching. Also local script money prizes for the three largest carp and the smallest carp taken. More specific information can be found at www.lakeview-ia.com beginning in May. Reservable camping is available at Black Hawk State Park at www.reserveiaparks.com or with the City of Lake View's Camp Crescent at 712-657-2189.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Scavenger Hunt
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, August 8, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at the picnic area. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Discover a part of the Mines of Spain while hunting for nature clues! Please meet at the Picnic Area and bring a water bottle!

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, August 8, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch for the Catfish Creek Trail (2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Flowers of the Prairie
When: Sunday, August 9, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. On display will be the parks herbarium of plants found throughout the park. Visit with the Park Ranger about prairie and savanna restoration projects.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Prairies
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, August 15, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at the picnic area. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Prairies used to cover 99% of Iowa, now they only cover about 1%. Activities will include planting your own prairie, wandering through a prairie and learning about animals that live there.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, August 15, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Area's parking lot for the Horseshoe Bluff Trail (3/4 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Canoe Trips
When: Sunday, August 16, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch. All outings are weather dependent. No reservations. Please bring sunscreen and water. Canoes, paddles, life jackets and a canoeing lesson will be provided. There is limited space, first come/first serve. Call park office at 563-556-0620 for details.

Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area - Pigman Sprint Triathlon
When: Sunday, August 16, 2009 - 7:00 am
What: Start and finish at the beach parking lot - Swim 1.2 K, bike 56 K, and run 13.1K. Registration forms and more information can be found at www.pigmantri-com.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Wetlands
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, August 22, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Area. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Grab our boots, buckets, and nets and join the Mines of Spain Naturalist at the Mines of Spain Wetland! Learn about our amazing water animals by actually getting into the pond, using our nets and testing for chemicals.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, August 22, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the picnic area for the Calcite Trail (2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Beed's Lake State Park - Restoration Run
When: Sunday, August 29, 2009 - 7:00 am
What: The Friends of Beed's Lake are hosting a 5K walk/run, 10Krun and 1/2 marathon. All participants will receive a t-shirt if registered by 8/15/09. Visit the following website for addtional information: www.friendsofbeedslake.hamptoniowa.org.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Forests
Nature Day for Kids!
When: Saturday, August 29, 2009 - 10:30 am - noon
What: Meet at the picnic area. For elementary ages.(parents welcome to stay) Hike through the woods and discover what is living amongst the trees.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, August 29, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the 2nd parking lot from the south entrance for the Prairie Ridge Trail (2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

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September

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Kayaking
When: Friday, September 4, 2009 - 2:00 pm
What: Free kayaking? Yes it is true and hard to believe! Learn the basics or come to share your expert tips. Sign up in the resort lobby before the summer weather is gone. Only 9 spots per session.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Full Moon Night Hike
When: Friday, September 4, 2009 - 8:30 pm
What: Meet in the lobby to hike the paved trail under the glow of a full moon.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Bug Boxes
When: Saturday, September 5, 2009 - 1:00 pm
What: Bring a box and we will convert it to the ultimate insect inspecting machine. Anything will do, a shoe box, Kleenex box, milk carton, or other used container. Just be sure it is large enough to house your favorite butterflies, grasshoppers, caterpillars and other interesting bugs.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, September 5, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Interpretive Center for the Nature Center Trails hike (1-1/2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Ice Fishing
When: Saturday, September 5, 2009 - 3:30 PM
What: In September...well...yeah! Why not? Maybe September doesn't provide prime ice fishing conditions but it is a great time to get the learning part taken care of. So Join the DNR for some ice fishing, learn the basics and be prepared when this warm air turns cold. Poles are provided and we promise you will not go home with frostbite.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Canoe Trips
When: Sunday, September 6, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch. All outings are weather dependent. No reservations. Please bring sunscreen and water. Canoes, paddles, life jackets and a canoeing lesson will be provided. There is limited space, first come/first serve. Call park office at 563-556-0620 for details.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Do You See What I See?
When: Friday, September 11, 2009 - 3:00 pm
What: Bring a magnifying glass or borrow one of ours and get up close and personal with creepy crawlers at Honey Creek Resort.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, September 12, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Area's parking lot for the Horseshoe Bluff Trail (3/4 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Binocular How To
When: Saturday, September 12, 2009 - 4:00 pm
What:Learn to use binoculars in the outdoors. Can you spot a bird or another wild animal before the naturalist does? Come to learn or to prove your skills.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Sunset Hike
When: Saturday, September 12, 2009 - 7:15 pm
What: Hike the trail with DNR Naturalist and enjoy the colors of the sunset. Weather pending.

Viking Lake State Park - Visit by Lewis and Clark
When: Monday, Septembr 14, 2009 through Friday, September 18, 2009 - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
            Saturday, September 19, 2009 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
What: Boat builder Burch Bouvier and volunteers from Lewis and Clark State Park will bring a reproduction red pirouge to Viking Lake State Park and tell the story of the historic Lewis and Clark Expedition. Join school groups, church groups, and community groups from the surrounding area to learn about this exciting historic event (1803 - 1806) which is a part of our Iowa heritage. The site of this event will be the campground boat ramp and a Saturday night program at the lower picnic shelter.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Prairie Plant Education
When: Friday, September 18, 2009 - 6:30 pm
What: Walk through the prairie at Honey Creek and learn to identify native plants by their family.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, September 19, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch for the Catfish Creek Trail (2 mi). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - One Mile Hike
When: Saturday, September 19, 2009 - 3:00 pm
What: Discover the name of your favorite prairie flower as we hike the trail through the prairie.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Monarch Tagging
When: Saturday, September 19, 2009 - 4:30 pm
What: Become a part of the Monarch Butterfly research project by helping to catch and tag Monarchs before they migrate south. Check Honey Creek Resort website before coming to be sure the program has not been postponed. Bring a net if you have one. Weather pending.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Canoe Trips
When: Sunday, September 20, 2009 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
What: Meet at the Catfish Creek Canoe Launch. All outings are weather dependent. No reservations. Please bring sunscreen and water. Canoes, paddles, life jackets and a canoeing lesson will be provided. There is limited space, first come/first serve. Call park office at 563-556-0620 for details.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Animal Activity
When: Friday, September 25, 2009 - 2:00 pm
What: Become more aware of wildlife's preparations for winter.

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Fall Centerpieces
When: Saturday, September 26, 2009 - 1:30 pm
What: Create a colorful centerpiec for your table from nature's fall offerings. Bring your creativity!!

Honey Creek Resort State Park - Fall Leaf Color Hike
When: Saturday, September 26, 2009 - 4:00 pm
What: Take in the beauty of fall as we hike the trail and learn about the changing leaves.

Fort Atkinson State Preserve - Rendezvous
When: Saturday, Sept 26, 2009
            Sunday, Sept 27, 2009
What: Visit a live display of what life was like in the 1840s when the fort was being built and used. Trade blankets, food vendors, craft people and military actors portraying the 1840s time period will demonstrate through displays, competing in contests and performing to educate the public on this interesting place in time. Free admission.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - Hike with the Naturalist
When: Saturday, September 26, 2009 - start at 2:30 pm
What: Meet at the Julien Dubuque Monument for the Monument to Center trail (2 mi round trip). Have you ever had questions about plants, birds, or the history of the area while hiking in the Mines of Spain? Join the Mines of Spain Naturalist for a guided hike! Please print off a map of the trails for locations of the hikes.

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October

Cedar Rock State Park - Under the Moonlight
When: Saturday, October 3, 2009 - 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
What: Celebrate Frank Lloyd Wright embraced in his Usonian design at Cedar Rock while taking in the NE Iowa fall foliage. Take this chance to enjoy the beautiful estate from 6:00 - 9:00 pm. The typically inaccessible maid's quarters and boat pavilion will be open. Refreshments will be served around an open fire in the council fire area. Guests should meet at the Cedar Rock visitor center. Questions can be directed to cedar_rock@dnr.iowa.gov or by calling the park office at 319-934-3572.

Lacey Keosauqua State Park - Scenic Drive Festival
When: Saturday, October 10, 2009 - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
            Sunday October 11, 2009 - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
What: Arts and craft vendors, antiques, art show, music, games, parade, carnival, car show and food throughout the Villages of Van Buren County. Buckskinners camp at Ely Ford within Lacey Keosauqua State Park demonstrating blackpowder, axe throwing, and blacksmithing.

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November

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