Calendar

Nature at Night

Nature at Night

October 6th, 7pm at Benton County Nature Center

Bats, owls, racoons, oh my! Join our Naturalists for a short program about nocturnal animals in Iowa then take a quiet leisure hike under the full moon to call for owls! After our short hike, enjoy s’mores around the campfire! Registration is required by visiting mycountyparks.com.

Foundation Chili Cook-Off

Hannen Lake Chili Cook-Off 

Saturday, October 11, 2025 

Prizes, Activites, and Raffles! 

Cash only raffle, must be presetn to win. 

Flora, Fauna & Females: Women's Camp Out

Flora, Fauna & Females: Women's Camp Out

October 18-19th, at Wildcat Bluff Recreation Area (3150 57th St Trail, Center Point, IA 52213)

Come join us for a night under the stars and make new gal pals! This overnight adventure is all about forging fresh friendships and strengthening the bonds you already have. The Campout begins Saturday at 10:30am at The Den - Wildcat Bluff Recreation Area and concludes on Sunday at 10am. Join us for a range of activities such as nature journaling, hiking, nighttime scavenger hunt, candle painting, Dutch oven cooking, a coffee/tea station, team building exercises, stargazing, and much more! Cost includes food, lodging, and supplies for activities. Space is limited to 8 women. Registration is required by October 6th at 6:00PM at mycountyparks.com. Questions? Call/text Faith at 319-560-9809 or Ceci at 319-560-9806.

Flora, Fauna & Females: Women's Camp Out

Flora, Fauna & Females: Women's Camp Out

October 18-19th, at Wildcat Bluff Recreation Area (3150 57th St Trail, Center Point, IA 52213)

Come join us for a night under the stars and make new gal pals! This overnight adventure is all about forging fresh friendships and strengthening the bonds you already have. The Campout begins Saturday at 10:30am at The Den - Wildcat Bluff Recreation Area and concludes on Sunday at 10am. Join us for a range of activities such as nature journaling, hiking, nighttime scavenger hunt, candle painting, Dutch oven cooking, a coffee/tea station, team building exercises, stargazing, and much more! Cost includes food, lodging, and supplies for activities. Space is limited to 8 women. Registration is required by October 6th at 6:00PM at mycountyparks.com. Questions? Call/text Faith at 319-560-9809 or Ceci at 319-560-9806.

Nocturnal Animals

Nocturnal Animals

October 23rd, 10am at Benton County Nature Center

Whooo goes in the night? Join us for a fun and educational morning as we explore the mysterious world of Iowa's nocturnal animals! From owls and bats to raccoons and other nighttime critters, we'll uncover what makes these animals special and how they thrive after dark. Kids will discover how nocturnal animals use their senses, adapt to the night, and play important roles in our local ecosystems. Participants MUST REGISTER in advance at mycountyparks.com. Participants do not have to be in a homeschool group to participate.

Astronomy at the Dow’s Observatory

Astronomy at the Dow’s Observatory

October 25th, 6:30pm at the Vinton Public Library

Come join us for an exciting evening under the stars at The Eastern Iowa Observatory and Learning Center! The Cedar Amateur Astronomers will be hosting a live astronomy presentation where you can learn about the wonders of the universe. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or just starting out, this event is perfect for all ages and levels of interest. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and gaze at the cosmos with fellow astronomy enthusiasts. We will be leaving from the Vinton Public Library at 6:30pm. We have a limited number of transportation seats available, but participants are welcome to drive their own vehicle to the learning center in Mt. Vernon. This is a partner program with Vinton Library. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/live-astronomy-presentation-with-the-cedar-amateur-astronomers-tickets-1510687660459?aff=odcleoeventsincollection

County Campground Gates Close