Autumn brings a welcoming crispness to the air. Spending time outdoors benefits both physical and mental health. From reducing stress to encouraging movement, nature offers a chance to slow down, reconnect and recharge.
Fun abounds statewide for those in search of fall color and good times outdoors. From fall festivals to apple orchards, Iowa has many fall activities to celebrate local traditions and create memories with your family. Start planning your autumn excursions today with these great resources:
- Iowa State Park Passport - discover your new favorite parks, check in to track your outdoor adventures and earn prizes
- Travel Iowa (Fall Bingo) - must-visit fall attractions, fall festivals, scenic drives and more
- MyCountyParks.com - attend a fun fall program for the whole family at a local county park
- Project Learning Tree's Nature Activities for Families - explore trees in the woods, a local park or your own backyard
- Iowa’s Accessible Outdoors highlights locations across the state where visitors can enjoy accessible activities like trails, fishing piers, playgrounds, picnic areas, scenic views and overnight stays. Each experience has been reviewed in person by DNR staff to ensure there are accessible pathways, nearby parking, and—in most cases—restrooms.
Fall Colors, Weekly Report
Sign up to get fall color reports emailed to you weekly starting Sept. 30 through the last week of October. Get details on where to see the best fall color in Iowa, along with fall travel ideas and other fun ways to get outside.
Iowa offers some stunning views during the fall months along with various ways to experience them - whether you're on a bike or hiking trail, on the water or in a car.
The northern third of Iowa peaks, depending on weather, the weekend closest to Oct. 10. The center third peaks the first to third weeks of October, and the southern third peaks the second through fourth weeks of October.
Fall Forestry Field Days
Explore the rich insights forests can offer and the responsibilities tied to their stewardship this fall. Whether you are seasoned or just beginning your exploration of forestry, these forestry field days aim to enrich your knowledge and ignite passion for woodland management.
- Shimek State Forest Fall Forestry Field Day: Oct. 6, 9 a.m.- 2:30 p.m.
- Yellow River State Forest Fall Forestry Field Day: Oct. 8, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Find details, agendas and registration information on the ISU Forestry Extension Upcoming Events webpage.
Geology Rock Stars Family Camp
Join Iowa DNR Naturalist Anne Riordan for a fun family camping adventure, Sept. 19-20. Explore real fossils at Rockford Fossil & Prairie Park, hike scenic trails, and enjoy hands-on activities like fire building and outdoor cooking. Lodging in a rustic group cabin is included, along with meals and special fossil kits for kids. Perfect for families with children ages 6–14.
Register for an unforgettable weekend of learning and outdoor fun.
Statewide Volunteer Day, Sept. 26, 2026
Iowa state parks and forests invite you to lend a hand on Saturday, Sept. 26 for Statewide Volunteer Day. More than 20 state parks and forests will host events that include picking up litter, trail maintenance, painting and more. No experience necessary, come enjoy the outdoors!
Learn more about specific events on the DNR's Volunteer Day webpage.
