This summer has been a bit “hit and miss” for outside play opportunities. When the rain has subsided and the sun is out take advantage and encourage the kids to get outside and enjoy nature. Central Iowa families are fortunate to have several places and programs that make it easy to learn about and appreciate the great outdoors. With that said, many kids today are not necessarily used to playing outside.
Running through woods, playing in creeks and catching fireflies are something every child should experience. Research shows kids are happier and healthier when outdoor time and indoor time are balanced. Getting kids out in nature can be as simple as taking a walk or playing in the yard. For parents who want to go beyond their neighborhood, they can look to many area resources.
On the city level, parks and recreation departments offer up a number of parks, trails and programs. Check out our article Des Moines Area Parks & Recreation Departments Offer Low Cost Family Fun for more information and a list of departments in the metro. On the county level, conservation boards manage county parks and trails and host a number of events, classes and camps.
At the state level there is the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. They manage the state parks and provide a variety of programs for families and children. The following resources are helpful places to start looking for some of the many environmental education programs and classes for families and children in Central Iowa.
Brenton Arboretum
25141 260th Street • Dallas Center, IA 50063 • (515) 992-4211 • http://www.thebrentonarboretum.org/
An “outdoor museum of trees” with special programs for kids and families. Stroll the trails and watch the changing seasons play across the stunning vistas. Catch your breath while the children play at the O’Brien Nature Play area. Admission is FREE.
Dallas County Conservation Board
14581 K Avenue • Perry, IA 50220 • (515) 465-3577 • http://www.co.dallas.ia.us/department-services/conservation/
With over 3000 acres and 20 + sites comprised of parks, museums, wildlife areas, boat ramps and trails, Dallas County Conservation offers a variety of recreational, educational, and cultural opportunities. They offer educational programs and special events focusing on nature and wildlife themes and habitats.
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
502 E 9th Street, 4th Floor • Des Moines, IA 50319 • (515) 725-8200 • http://www.iowadnr.gov/
The DNR manages fish and wildlife programs, ensures the health of Iowa’s forests and prairies, and provides recreational opportunities in Iowa’s state parks. They offer camps for kids to learn more about Iowa’s animals and habitats. They also offer links to environmental resources for kids and teachers.
Iowa Arboretum
1875 Peach Avenue • Madrid, IA 50156 • (515) 795-3216 • iowaarboretum.org
The Iowa Arboretum features a library trail with 19 plant collections, a woodland preserve, and various specialty gardens. Take a self-guided tour of trails and exhibits. The arboretum also hosts special events throughout the year. General Admission is $5.00 per car.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
9981 Pacific Street • Prairie City, IA 50228 • (515) 994-3400 • http://www.fws.gov/refuge/neal_smith/
The mission of the Refuge is to actively protect, restore, reconstruct and manage the diverse native ecosystems of tallgrass prairie, oak savanna, and sedge meadow. These were the native habitats existing on the Refuge’s 5600 acres prior to Euro-American settlement. The Refuge serves as a major environmental education, volunteer and outdoor recreation hub for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy.
Polk County Conservation Board
11407 NW Jester Park Drive • Granger, IA 50109 • (515) 323-5300 • http://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/
The 20 park and wildlife areas managed by PCCB are visited by more than 1.8 million people each year. These public recreation areas cover more than 14,000 acres in the state’s most populous county. Polk County Conservation devotes a great deal of time and resources toward environmental education for Polk County residents including children’s nature programs and special events.
Warren County Conservation Board
15565 118th Avenue • Indianola, IA 50125 • (515) 961-6169 • http://www.warrenccb.org/
The Warren County Conservation Board currently manages over 2,200 acres of land for the benefit of its citizens. Visitors can enjoy outdoor education and recreation opportunities on areas being conserved for this generation and generations to come. WCCB does a great job offering a wide range of nature programs, classes and activities for families.
How do you encourage your kids to explore nature? Let us know in the Comments below.
