STORY COUNTY
UNDER CONSTRUCTION…
Warren County Conservation manages 17 county parks, prairies, marshes, woodlands and conservation areas. With biking and walking trails, prairie remnants, marshes, lakes and campgrounds, there’s a little something for everyone. Personally, I think it offers some great spots for those who are curious and want to explore but maybe don’t enjoy large populated parks.
This is my home county and I’m still learning about the many natural spaces available for public use. I love that we have several smaller wooded areas like Swamp White Oak and Grant Nature Land. They are fun to explore and offer a less manicured, more natural state full of wildlife and native vegetation, and are particularly enjoyable in the cooler seasons.
McFarland Park
An absolutely delightful 240 acres, this perfect mix of tall grass prairie, forest and river offers a peaceful escape into nature. Enjoy an easy 1-mile stroll around the lake or dig into the 5.5 miles of soft surface trails through prairie and forest. Story County Conservation Center is also located here with weekday hours from 8:30am-4:30pm.
Picnic Grounds
Enclosed Bird Blind
Fishing
Bathrooms
Trails
Prairie
Small lake
Hunting
Mobility scooter available for check out.
Tedesco
Tedesco is one of those places that caught me by surprise. Technically an environmental learning corridor this unique space is located in ISU Research Park in Ames, Iowa. What I love is that it offers 37-acres of outdoor space that is progressive, collaborative and absolutely gorgeous.
Stream
Paved Trails
Observation platform
Prairie
Solar Powered Charging Stations
3 Small ponds
Doolittle Prairie
This might be one of my favorite places to go when I’m just needed to get away from it all. 138 acres of constructed wetland and reestablished prairie, is peaceful and wild and can be a great place to see birds and waterfowl as well as deer and other wildlife.
Public Hunting is allowed
