Dickinson County Nature Center

05/28/2026

For youth going into 3rd-5th grade, we have a really fun partnership camp coming up to discover the magical world of nature!

Calling all young wizards! Step into a world of wonder, where nature and science meet magic! Young Witches and Wizards will craft their own wands, mix colorful potions, explore the secret powers of plants, and test their skills in broomstick training and wizard quests.

📅 June 17th or July 8th
⏰ 9 AM-3 PM
💲 $20
📍 Horseshoe Bend, North Side
2372 190th Ave, Milford, IA 51351

🔮 Spots are limited—don’t miss out!
👉 Register here: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/dickinson/camps-outreach

05/22/2026

Heads Up! The Nature Center will have a field trip inside until 2:30 pm today (FRI). Our lower level will be closed.

Send a message to learn more

05/21/2026

🌿Great news!!!! 🌿The Dickinson County Conservation Board was recently awarded the Community Attraction & Tourism (CAT) grant of $387,000 towards the construction of our new Nature Playscape. We are extremely grateful for this opportunity and the support that this project has received! The grant puts the board at $1.7 million raised of the $1.9 million total.

Fundraising efforts continue to raise the remaining $216,000 to break ground! We are so close!
If you want to be a part of making the Nature Playscape come to life, donate online at https://dickinsoncountyconservationboard.com/donate/ , stop in at with your gift at the Nature Center, or mail your gift to the non-profit branch of DCCB - the Conservation Foundation of Dickinson County (CFDC) at 22785 Nature Center Road, Okoboji, IA 51355.

Thank you to the Iowa Economic Development Authority and everyone who has given to bring the project to this point! This is YOUR playscape, and it couldn't be done without YOU!

05/13/2026

Huge shoutout to staff at the Dickinson County Conservation Board, Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery, Iowa Great Lakes Fishing Club, and Kabele's Trading Post & Lodge, and all who made this amazing day possible!

04/29/2026

The Dickinson County Conservation Board is thrilled to share that our submission scored third out of twelve projects to be funded by the REAP CEP grant for fiscal year 2026! The $80,000 grant will be used within the new Nature Playscape towards components that promote cognitive and sensory development, social growth, and nature-based connection.
Find the full story at the link in the comments🔗👇

The DCCB will host a REAP assembly meeting on July 23rd at 1:00 PM at Maser Monarch Lodge for those who want to learn how the program could help with their natural and cultural projects.

04/24/2026

We are so grateful for the generous support from Iowa Great Lakes Rotary towards the Nature Playscape! Thank you for believing in the vision for the community to have access to outdoor environmental education and exploration.

04/22/2026

Today is a great reminder to get outside and appreciate the prairies, lakes, and trails that make Dickinson County special! Even small actions can make a big difference in protecting these natural spaces.

💚 Get outside. Explore. Protect what you love. Happy Earth Day! 🌎

04/22/2026

The Nature Center is looking for volunteers who love a friendly and positive atmosphere at the front desk and Westport Schoolhouse Museum! Message us if you are interested!

Dickinson County Nature Center Looking For Volunteers
https://www.exploreokoboji.com/news/dickinson-county-nature-center-looking-for-volunteers/

04/13/2026

Guess who's back?! First spotted on 3/30, the osprey pair have been consistently visiting the nest platform and are making some interesting additions to their home decor! You may see them while walking or biking along the paved trail in Kenue Park! You can also view the nest with the spotting scope in the Nature Center or visit our we**am page using the link🔗👉https://dickinsoncountyconservationboard.com/camera/