Calendar

Independence Day - County Offices Closed

Central Park Nature Center Open

Looking for a fun summer activity?

Visit the Central Park Nature Center!

Join us to view the 2026 Jones County Walking Through History temporary exhibit! View exhibits featuring artifacts left by past inhabitants of Jones County, and enjoy several hands-on activities and games in the Nature Center’s lower level.

Summer Nature Center Hours

• Saturdays: 1–5 PM (Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend)
• Weekdays: 8 AM–3:30 PM, when staff are present

For more information on upcoming events, visit the Jones County Conservation website.

Discovering Chimney Swifts & Nighthawks! - Part of the Walk & Learn Birds & Binocular Series

Join the Walk & Learn: Birds and Binoculars Series this Summer!

Lace up your walking shoes, grab your binoculars (and bird field guide if you have one), and join fellow birding enthusiasts as we learn about Iowa’s chimney swifts and nighthawks. Along the way, we’re sure to spot other resident birds as we hike to and from several Monticello public parks in search of these special species.

We’ll meet at the Monticello Pocket Park at 7:00 PM for brief introductions before beginning our hike.

New to birding? No problem! Everyone is welcome to attend this relaxed, educational birdwatching outing.

Binoculars and field guides will be provided, or feel free to bring your own.

This series is co-sponsored by the Monticello Parks & Recreation Deaprtment and the Jones County Conservation Board.  

Central Park Nature Center Open

Looking for a fun summer activity?

Visit the Central Park Nature Center!

Join us to view the 2026 Jones County Walking Through History temporary exhibit! View exhibits featuring artifacts left by past inhabitants of Jones County, and enjoy several hands-on activities and games in the Nature Center’s lower level.

Summer Nature Center Hours

• Saturdays: 1–5 PM (Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend)
• Weekdays: 8 AM–3:30 PM, when staff are present

For more information on upcoming events, visit the Jones County Conservation website.

Central Park Bumble Bee Survey

Head to the Central Park Nature Center on Saturday June 27th, July 18th, and August 29th from 3-5 PM to take part in the 2026 Central Park Bumble Bee Survey!  Learn about the Iowa Bumble Bee Atlas and help survey the bumble bees of Central Park.  

Central Park Lake Sunset Kayaking

Perfect for beginner kayakers!  Join us for a fun and relaxed introduction to flat water kayaking!  Learn the basics of kayak safety and paddling, followed by a peaceful paddle on Central Park Lake.   

Bring your own kayak or use of the the Jones County Conservation educational kayaks.

Wednesday, July 22

7:30 - 9:30 PM

This event is for ages 10 and up.  Children must be accompanied by and adult.   

All equipment is provided.  PFD's required to be worn.

Registration is required.  Click here to register.