Calendar of Events

OWLS - Disc Golf 101

Join Naturalists in learning all about disc golf. We will cover the rules, how to play, and then break up into groups to play the course at the park.

Disc golf is a popular outdoor activity and disc golf courses are found in most communities.

This is an OWLS event - sponsored by Dubuque, Jackson, and Jones County Conservation - and is open to all adults.

This is a great opportunity for adults who don't know the rules or how to play to learn more about the game!

Free event.

Registration required.

Call (563) 652-3783 or email conservation@jacksoncounty.iowa.gov to register. 

Central Park Nature Center Open

Looking for a fun summer activity?

Visit the Central Park Nature Center!

Join us for opening weekend of the 2026 Jones County Walking Through History 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.

Jones County Youth Conservation Crew

Youth Volunteers WANTED!  Youth ages 12-18  can join the 2026 Jones County Youth Conservation Crew.  Join conservation staff in leadership activities, educational conservation and ecology lessons, and hands on service learning  Thursday mornings in June from 9 AM - Noon.  Register at https://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Jones/Events

Central Park Family Fishing Day!

Did you know June 5 - 7,  2026 is Iowa's Free Fishing Weekend?   (All Iowa fishing rules and regulations still apply) Click here for more information on the IOWA DNR Free Fishing Weekend.

Load up your family and friends and head to Central Park for a Fun Family Fishing Day on Saturday, June 6th!   

Fishing Activities at the Nature Center/Central Park: 

• Go fishing at the Family Fishing Area with Loaner Rods, Reels, and Bait provided.
• Get artsy and chalk the Nature Centers walk with fish art!
• Test your fish ID IQ.
• Bring your sandcastle equipment and beach wear to enjoy the Central Park Beach
• Rent a Paddle boat or Kayak from the campground host and take a spin around the lake. 
• Learn about the parks purple martin colony as you watch them flying over the lake.
• Check out the latest Nature Center "Fishing Fun" exhibits.  (Nature Center will be open 9 AM - 5 PM, Saturday, June 6th).     
• Participate in the Jones County Family Fishing Challenge by taking a picture of your catch and emailing it to conservationofficemg@jonescountyiowa.gov  by the end of June! 

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.

Jones County Youth Conservation Crew

Youth Volunteers WANTED!  Youth ages 12-18  can join the 2026 Jones County Youth Conservation Crew.  Join conservation staff in leadership activities, educational conservation and ecology lessons, and hands on service learning  Thursday mornings in June from 9 AM - Noon.  Register at https://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Jones/Events

Central Park Iowa Young Birders Association Outing

Join the Iowa Young Birders Association for a fun morning of birdwatching at Central Park — perfect for kids and families!

We’ll meet at the Central Park Nature Center at 9:00 AM to say hello and learn a little about birds before heading out on the trails together. We’ll see how many different bird species we can spot along the way!

Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Binoculars and bird guides will be available to borrow, or you’re welcome to bring your own.

New birders welcome - you do not have to be a current member of the Iowa Young Birders Association to attend.

Click here to register for this event.  

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.

Jones County Youth Conservation Crew

Youth Volunteers WANTED!  Youth ages 12-18  can join the 2026 Jones County Youth Conservation Crew.  Join conservation staff in leadership activities, educational conservation and ecology lessons, and hands on service learning  Thursday mornings in June from 9 AM - Noon.  Register at https://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Jones/Events

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.

Native Bee Box Workshop

Join the Jones County Naturalist Intern at the Central Park Nature Center Lower Level meeting room on Saturday, June 20th at 1 PM to learn about some of Iowa's native bees.  Find out how to attract native bees to your backyard and build a solitary bee box to take home.  (1 Bee Box Kit per family) ($10 per kit)

Click here to register for this event.

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, June 24

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.

Jones County Youth Conservation Crew

Youth Volunteers WANTED!  Youth ages 12-18  can join the 2026 Jones County Youth Conservation Crew.  Join conservation staff in leadership activities, educational conservation and ecology lessons, and hands on service learning  Thursday mornings in June from 9 AM - Noon.  Register at https://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Jones/Events

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 25th, 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 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 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.

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 25th, 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 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 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.

Jones County REAP Committee Annual Grant Review & Comment Session

Did you know REAP Grant applications for City Park/Open Space and County Conservation grant applications are required to get comments from their local county REAP committee?  The 2026 Jones County REAP Committee Grant Review Meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 12th beginning at 10 AM.  Interested individuals are invited to attend.  Members of the Jones County REAP Committee will meet in the Central Park Nature Centers Lower-Level Meeting Room to review and comment on proposed 2026 Jones County REAP Project applications. The meeting agenda will include the election of Jones County REAP Committee officers, review of grants being submitted with input and recommendations on any proposed projects, and updates on any 2024/2025 Jones County REAP Grants awarded.

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 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.

Monarch Tagging

Become a scientist for a day!  Bring your family to Central Park to learn about, capture, and tag migrating monarch butterflies.  Bring your own net or borrow one of ours.  Check-in at the Central Park Nature Center to receive instructions and tagging equipment.  This is a come and go event  - stay for an hour or the entire time:-)    

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, August 26

6:30 - 8:30 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.

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 25th, 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.  

Monarch Tagging

Become a scientist for a day!  Bring your family to Central Park to learn about, capture, and tag migrating monarch butterflies.  Bring your own net or borrow one of ours.  Check-in at the Central Park Nature Center to receive instructions and tagging equipment.  This is a come and go event  - stay for an hour or the entire time:-)    

Following the Fall Migration - Part of the Walk & Learn: Birds & Binoculars 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 Fall Migration.   Find out which birds head south for the winter, which birds stay, and which birds find Iowa a cozy winter retreat! 

We’ll meet at the Riverside Garden Gazebo at 9 AM for brief introductions before beginning our hike.

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

Monarch Tagging

Become a scientist for a day!  Bring your family to Central Park to learn about, capture, and tag migrating monarch butterflies.  Bring your own net or borrow one of ours.  Check-in at the Central Park Nature Center to receive instructions and tagging equipment.  This is a come and go event  - stay for an hour or the entire time:-)    

Monarch Tagging

Become a scientist for a day!  Bring your family to Central Park to learn about, capture, and tag migrating monarch butterflies.  Bring your own net or borrow one of ours.  Check-in at the Central Park Nature Center to receive instructions and tagging equipment.  This is a come and go event  - stay for an hour or the entire time:-)    

Monarch Tagging

Become a scientist for a day!  Bring your family to Central Park to learn about, capture, and tag migrating monarch butterflies.  Bring your own net or borrow one of ours.  Check-in at the Central Park Nature Center to receive instructions and tagging equipment.  This is a come and go event  - stay for an hour or the entire time:-)    

Monarch Tagging

Become a scientist for a day!  Bring your family to Central Park to learn about, capture, and tag migrating monarch butterflies.  Bring your own net or borrow one of ours.  Check-in at the Central Park Nature Center to receive instructions and tagging equipment.  This is a come and go event  - stay for an hour or the entire time:-)    

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, September 23

6 - 8 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.

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.

Saturday, October 10

5-7 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.