Events and Activities : Calendar of Events for Benton County Conservation Winter 2024-2025

Benton County Conservation's list of event for the upcoming months is below. Registration for all events is required by visiting https://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Benton.aspx and are free unless otherwise stated.

Explore the Expansion: Wildcat Bluff Grand Opening
March 29th, 1pm-3pm at Wildcat Bluff Recreation Area (3150 57th St Trail, Center Point, IA 52213)
Join us on Saturday, March 29, 2025, as we celebrate the expansion of Wildcat Bluff Recreation Area! From 1-3pm we will be gathering, celebrating, and have the opportunity to view The Den Cabin, our newest reservable cabin. At 2pm there will be introductions and a guided hike on the expansion. Please dress for mud and off-road hiking. Refreshments and snacks will be provided. Please park along 57th Street Trail. Benton County Conservation Foundation will have Wildcat Bluff clothing for sale (cash or check only!) A huge thank you to our event donors, Shelly's Sweets in Newhall, Hendryx Electric and Cedar Valley Bank. This incredible addition was made possible by individual donors, organizations, grants, partnership with Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation and the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) program. We couldn't be more thankful for the support of our amazing community! We hope to see you there! No registration required.

Aquaponics
April 5th, 10am at Benton County Nature Center; $30 per system
Aquaponics is a combination of aquaculture (raising aquatic animals) and hydroponics (growing plants in water). Participants will learn about this sustainability practice and then make their very own aquaponics setup! This program includes aquaponics setup (a voucher for a fish, a few house plants, and a 1 gallon tank). Space is limited. Participants must register online at www.mycountyparks.com.

Patterns in Nature
April 18th, 10:00am-11:30am at Rodgers Park - Enclosed Shelter
Swirls, dashes, squiggles, circles, ovals and more! Nature's art gallery, bursting with vibrant colors, whimsical shapes, and unique patterns can be found all around us. During this program we will read a book and venture outdoors to uncover the hidden treasures of nature's stunning designs. This program is for youth in PreK-1st grade. Participants must register in advance at www.mycountyparks.com. Participants do not have to be in a homeschool group to participate.

Celebrate Trails Day
April 26th, 10am-12pm at Old Creamery Nature Trail - Garrison Trailhead
Help us celebrate the Old Creamery Nature Trail by helping clean up litter and a tree planting! Light drinks and refreshments will be provided. Bring your own gloves if you have them, otherwise we will have some provided. The Garrison Public Library will be hosting a craft during this event. Please wear long pants and dress to get dirty! No registration required.

Canoe with BCC
June 3rd, 5:30pm-7pm at Rodgers Park Beach
June 5th, 5:30pm-7pm at Hannen Lake Park Boat Ramp
Try out canoeing at one of our lakes! During these programs, we will cover canoe and water safety including paddling basics for flatwater canoeing. Participants should bring their own water and wear shoes that can get wet. BCC will provide canoes, paddles and life jackets. For youth 5 and under please call 319-472-4942. Registration is required by visiting www.mycountyparks.com

WILDcat Adventures
June 12th, 10am-1pm at Wildcat Bluff Recreation Area (3150 57th St Trail, Center Point, IA 52213)
Young adventurers in 1st to 4th grade are invited to discover the thrilling natural wonders of Wildcat! Activities will include creek stomping, fossil hunting, and hiking through the woods. Explorers should come prepared to get dirty and wet. Campers should bring a sack lunch, water, bug spray, sunscreen and a hat. Space is limited. Registration is required by visiting www.mycountyparks.com.

Conservation Library Programs - Leveling Up: Monarch Metamorphosis
June 24th 9:45am @Van Horne Public Library (114 Main St, Van Horne, IA)
June 24th 1:00pm @Blairstown Public Library(305 Locust St NE, Blairstown, IA)
June 27th 10am @Belle Plaine Community Library (904 Main St, Belle Plaine, IA)
June 27th, 3:30pm @Newhall Public Library (109 Railroad St E, Newhall, IA)
July 23rd 10:00am @Vinton Public Library (510 2nd Avenue, Vinton, IA)
Level up with monarchs at one of these fun and interactive library programs! Programs are free and suitable for all ages.

Archery Camp
July 2nd, 9am-1:30pm at Benton County Nature Center; $20/kid
Ready, set, aim! Join us for Archery Camp! During this camp, students will learn how to shoot archery, bow fish, and create their own bow using PVC. Archery camp is for youth going into 5th-8th grade. Campers should bring a sack lunch, water, bug spray, sunscreen and a hat. Registration is required by visiting www.mycountyparks.com.

Ice Cream Science
July 11th, 2:30-4:00pm at Benton County Nature Center
Explore the chemistry that goes on behind making ice cream. During this tasty open-house style program, you will make your own ice cream in a bag and explore the Nature Center! This program is free and suitable for all ages. No registration required.

SAVE THE DATE: JULY 19th, 2025
Second Annual Firefly Festival at the Benton County Nature Center
Live music, local food, beverages, crafts, firefly education and firefly catching