Jones County Local FARMERS MARKET
Central Park - South Side
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
July 10, 2026
4:00 pm · 6:00 pm
Join us for the 2nd Annual Jones County Farmers Market at Central Park!
This year, you'll find us beachside in the Wetlands Parking Lot, providing greater visibility and easier access for campers, park visitors, and local residents.
Shop locally grown produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, specialty products, and more while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of one of Jones County's favorite outdoor destinations.
Whether you're stocking up on fresh ingredients, searching for unique gifts, or simply looking for a fun Friday afternoon outing, there's something for everyone at the market.
Market Details:
Dates: June 26th, July 10th & 31st, August 7th & 28th
Wetlands Parking Lot at Central Park - South Side of Lake Near Beach
Time: 4-6 PM
Local produce, baked goods, crafts, and specialty vendors
Convenient beachside location
Easy access for campers and park visitors
Family-friendly atmosphere
Come support local farmers, makers, and small businesses while enjoying all that Central Park has to offer. We look forward to seeing you at the market!
For More Information
Contact: Kaileen Weaver - Director of Jones County Tourism Association
(319) 462-4101
director@traveljonescounty.com Website Posted by:
Conservation
Central Park Nature Center Open
Central Park Nature Center
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
July 11, 2026
1:00 pm · 5:00 pm
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.
For More Information
Contact: Michele Olson
(319) 481-7987
naturalist@jonescountyiowa.gov Website Posted by:
Conservation
OWLS National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium Trip
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
350 E 3rd St
Dubuque
July 13, 2026
9:00 am · 4:00 pm
Whether you have been to the National Mississippi River Museum a hundred times, or never before, this is the program for you!
Dubuque, Jackson, and Jones County Conservation will be taking adults on a trip to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium on July 13th. We will be exploring and learning about the natural history of the Mississippi River and Iowa conservation through a boat tour on the Mississippi River, a guided tour in the Museum, and free time to explore the new exhibits they have to offer!
The program is $45 per person, and this cost covers the boat tour, guided tour inside, and admission to the museum. Lunch is on your own. Participants are welcome to enjoy lunch at the Harbor Grill in the Museum or explore downtown Dubuque for lunch. Once participants leave, they will be allowed back in the museum to continue exploring.
Please see the schedule below:
Meet at 9:15 at the River Museum parking lot
9:30-10:30- Boat tour on the Mississippi
10:30-11:30- Guided tour in the River Museum
11:30-4:00- Free time to explore the museum and eat lunch.
This is an OWLS (Older, Wiser, and Livelier Souls) Program and is limited to participants 18 years or older.
Registration is Required by July 9th at Midnight. Click here to register.
For More Information
Contact: Julia Rodewald
(563) 652-3783
jrodewald@jacksoncounty.iowa.gov Website Posted by:
Conservation
Discovering Chimney Swifts & Nighthawks! - Part of the Walk & Learn Birds & Binocular Series
Monticello Pocket Park
114 East 1st Street
Monticello
July 16, 2026
7:00 pm · 9:00 pm
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.
For More Information
Contact: Michele Olson
(319) 481-7987
michele.olson@jonescountyiowa.gov Website Posted by:
Conservation
Central Park Nature Center Open
Central Park Nature Center
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
July 18, 2026
1:00 pm · 5:00 pm
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.
For More Information
Contact: Michele Olson
(319) 481-7987
naturalist@jonescountyiowa.gov Website Posted by:
Conservation
Central Park Bumble Bee Survey
Central Park Nature Center
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
July 18, 2026
3:00 pm · 5:00 pm
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.
For More Information
Contact: Michele Olson
(319) 481-7987
naturalist@jonescountyiowa.gov Website Posted by:
Conservation
Central Park Lake Sunset Kayaking
Central Park
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
July 22, 2026
7:30 pm · 9:30 pm
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.
For More Information
Contact: Michele Olson
(319) 481-7987
michele.olson@jonescountyiowa.gov Website Posted by:
Conservation
Jones County Local FARMERS MARKET
Central Park - South Side
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
July 31, 2026
4:00 pm · 6:00 pm
Join us for the 2nd Annual Jones County Farmers Market at Central Park!
This year, you'll find us beachside in the Wetlands Parking Lot, providing greater visibility and easier access for campers, park visitors, and local residents.
Shop locally grown produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, specialty products, and more while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of one of Jones County's favorite outdoor destinations.
Whether you're stocking up on fresh ingredients, searching for unique gifts, or simply looking for a fun Friday afternoon outing, there's something for everyone at the market.
Market Details:
Dates: June 26th, July 10th & 31st, August 7th & 28th
Wetlands Parking Lot at Central Park - South Side of Lake Near Beach
Time: 4-6 PM
Local produce, baked goods, crafts, and specialty vendors
Convenient beachside location
Easy access for campers and park visitors
Family-friendly atmosphere
Come support local farmers, makers, and small businesses while enjoying all that Central Park has to offer. We look forward to seeing you at the market!
For More Information
Contact: Kaileen Weaver - Director of Jones County Tourism Association
(319) 462-4101
director@traveljonescounty.com Website Posted by:
Conservation
Central Park Nature Center Open
Central Park Nature Center
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
August 1, 2026
1:00 pm · 5:00 pm
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.
For More Information
Contact: Michele Olson
(319) 481-7987
naturalist@jonescountyiowa.gov Website Posted by:
Conservation
Jones County Local FARMERS MARKET
Central Park - South Side
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
August 7, 2026
4:00 pm · 6:00 pm
Join us for the 2nd Annual Jones County Farmers Market at Central Park!
This year, you'll find us beachside in the Wetlands Parking Lot, providing greater visibility and easier access for campers, park visitors, and local residents.
Shop locally grown produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, specialty products, and more while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of one of Jones County's favorite outdoor destinations.
Whether you're stocking up on fresh ingredients, searching for unique gifts, or simply looking for a fun Friday afternoon outing, there's something for everyone at the market.
Market Details:
Dates: June 26th, July 10th & 31st, August 7th & 28th
Wetlands Parking Lot at Central Park - South Side of Lake Near Beach
Time: 4-6 PM
Local produce, baked goods, crafts, and specialty vendors
Convenient beachside location
Easy access for campers and park visitors
Family-friendly atmosphere
Come support local farmers, makers, and small businesses while enjoying all that Central Park has to offer. We look forward to seeing you at the market!
For More Information
Contact: Kaileen Weaver - Director of Jones County Tourism Association
(319) 462-4101
director@traveljonescounty.com Website Posted by:
Conservation
Illuminating the Dark - Central Park Bat Research!
Central Park Nature Center
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
August 7, 2026
6:30 pm · 8:00 pm
Come explore the science behind bat conservation and discover how local research is helping us better understand and protect bat populations. Learn how researchers are studying Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the fungus that causes White-nose syndrome, through a collaboration with Iowa State University Master's Student Faith Hansen. The evening will feature: A brief presentation on the bat research being conducted at Central Park. An overview of the results and discoveries made so far. Hands-on activities demonstrating field research methods. Opportunities to learn how scientists study bats, monitor their health, and discover ways you can help protect bats.
Join us on Friday, August 7th at 6:30 PM at the Central Park Nature Center.
For More Information
Contact: Michele Olson
(319) 481-7987
michele.olson@jonescountyiowa.gov Website Posted by:
Conservation
Central Park Nature Center Open
Central Park Nature Center
12515 Central Park Rd
Center Junction
August 8, 2026
1:00 pm · 5:00 pm
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.
For More Information
Contact: Michele Olson
(319) 481-7987
naturalist@jonescountyiowa.gov Website Posted by:
Conservation
Providing programs and recreational opportunities that preserve and enhance our natural and cultural resources. Residents and visitors are encouraged to join us in the great outdoors, exploring Jones County's many parks, wildlife areas, and trails.
