Fall into the Outdoors
Welcome to October! The air is growing crisp, the leaves are turning colors, and it’s the perfect season to go outdoors.Jacklyn Wolken, Conservation Technician
Autumn is one of the best times to explore nature, and Des Moines County Conservation has a lineup of events to help you do just that.
Big Holloween October 11
One of DMCC’s biggest events of the year is back, Big Holloween! This free, family-friendly event transforms the Big Hollow Campground into spooky fun. Trick or treat among campsites, hop on a hayrack ride, and show off your creativity in the costume contest. The event runs from 4:30 to 7:00 PM and is open to everyone. You do not need to be camping to participate. Before you head to Big Hollow, swing by 34 Raceway in West Burlington for a free drive through Track or Treat event from 2 to 4 PM!
Ladies Adventure Group: Archery and Hatchets October 9
Looking for a chance to try something new? The Ladies Adventure Group invites women ages 18 and older to join Naturalist Shania for Archery and Hatchet Night at Starr’s Cave from 5:00 to 6:30 PM. No experience is necessary, just bring your sense of adventure! All equipment will be provided, and the cost is just $5 per person. Pre registration is required through RecDesk, or you can call us on 319-753-5808 to sign up.
Hook and Hunt University: Pheasant Hunting October 18 & 25
October marks the start of pheasant hunting season, and this year is extra special as it marks the 100th anniversary of Iowa’s first official pheasant hunting season!
Hook and Hunt University is partnering with the Aldo Leopold Pheasants Forever Chapter to offer two mentored pheasant hunts:
- Youth Hunt: October 18. This is for hunters aged 15 and under.
- Youth do not need a license but must be accompanied by a licensed adult.
- All-Ages Hunt: October 25.
- Anyone 16 and older must have a valid license to hunt, including a small game hunting license, habitat fee stamp, and completed hunters education.
Both hunts begin with a mandatory safety meeting at 7:00 AM. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or brand new to the sport, our supportive mentors will guide you through the experience. Gear provided if needed. RSVP is required! You can sign up here or by calling 319-753-5808.
With hunting, hatchets and Halloween fun, October is full of opportunities to get outside. Mark your calendars, grab your friends and family, and join us outdoors. And if you cannot make it to these events, your county parks and trails are open every day. Take a hike, pack a picnic, or simply enjoy the fall colors at your own pace. There is no better time to explore outdoors!
Here are a few great places to explore this fall:
- Big Hollow Recreation Area provides roughly 10 miles of hiking trails, through the woods and prairie and along Big Hollow Lake. October is the last month of camping before the campgrounds close, make your reservations here!
- Starr’s Cave Park and Preserve offers 3 miles of wooded hiking and biking trails. The overlook off of Irish Ridge Road is a perfect hidden gem for viewing fall colors.
- Flint River Trail provides roughly 20 miles of hiking and biking trail through Des Moines County. Portions of this trail are still in the planning process, so not all parts of the trail connect yet. There is a 7 mile section that begins at Big Hollow Recreation Area and extends to Flint Bottom Road. We even offer bike rentals at Starr’s Cave Nature Center!
Check out the rest of YOUR county parks here! Wherever you go, fall is the perfect time to slow down and soak up the beauty of the season!
published Tuesday, September 30, 2025
