County parks continue seeing more visitors

MT. PLEASANT — Despite shower house and dump station difficulties, Henry County Conservation Director Caleb Waters shares that the county parks remain busy, this summer.

“Our dump station and shower house at South Shore is closed until further notice,” Waters said.

These will likely remain closed the remainder of the season, but Waters says they are working on fixing the issue.

In a meeting with the Henry County Board of Supervisors, last week, Waters presented an informal request to the board to potential utilize American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, though, the board could not affirm they would be available due to other departments seeking funds, as well.

For now, the conservation department hopes to move forward with some engineer quotes pending approval for the cost of those services by the conservation board.

Despite only having one dump station and only a single bathroom stall and shower located near their offices, Waters said he hasn’t seen a decrease in visitors to the parks.

“A lot of people camping anymore, they fill up their water storage tank and then they can shower, you know, in their camper,” Waters said.

In fact, Waters stated that he has seen an increase in stays during the week instead of just over the weekends.

“I know even prior to me, we didn't really have that many campers in the middle of the week,” Waters said. “A lot of people show up Thursday, Friday, camp the weekend, maybe leave Sunday, but we've even seen people Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday in the middle of the week, which is kind of new to me anyway. So I'm hoping with the improvements we've made, that's part of the reason why we're seeing more individuals camping in the middle of the week.”

One recent improvement includes new fire rings at the camp sites. Waters also stated that the recent addition of murals has drawn more traffic to the parks.

Right now, Waters says his main focus is on preparing for the Fourth of July weekend and continuing to provide the wide variety of summer events offered through the parks.

With the Henry County Naturalist Danica Cox leaving recently, the department has been on the hunt to replace her.

After interviewing candidates, they recently offered the position to an individual and are hopeful to have her begin work by the middle of July.

“We’ve been keeping busy and are looking forward to getting our new naturalist here,” Waters said.

“We've got a lot of camps and even programs coming up the rest of the year, so she'll definitely have to hit the ground running,” Waters said.

Upcoming events at Henry County Parks

Event descriptions provided by Henry County Conservation

SUMMER CAMPS

Registration is required to attend most summer camps. Register at www.mycountyparks.com/county/henry.aspx

Art in Nature

Wednesday, June 28 9 a.m.-noon

“Find the beauty in nature at this fun camp! Make crafts to take home and explore the wilderness to find art in unusual places. Ages 6+. Limit 24. $8 per child.”

Underwater explorers

Friday, June 30

THIS CAMP IS FULL

Nature Detectives

Thursday, July 6 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

“Discover how to use animal tracks, scat, and other clues to learn what happened at a crime scene! Bring your own lunch. Ages 8+. Limit 24. $10 per child.”

Ice Age Adventure

Monday, July 10 9 a.m.-noon

“Did you know that Iowa was once covered in ice? Learn what it was like to live during this time and what animals were roaming the area. Plus get the chance to throw some spears just like a cave men! Ages 8+. Limit 24. $8 per child.”

Picnic in the Park: Moths and Butterflies

Wednesday, July 12 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Limited spaces available

“Bring your little ones and your lunch out to the park for an afternoon of fun! Listen to a book, do a short activity, then take a hike. Afterward, we will all have lunch together at the shelter house in front of the nature center. Ages 3-5. Limit 12. $5 per child.”

Camp Oakland

July 13-14 7 p.m. Thursday- 10 a.m. Friday

“Stay overnight in a tent, canoe, play games, try archery, and so much more! Eat supper before you come. An evening snack and breakfast is included. Sleeping arrangements will be divided according to gender. Bring an extra set of clothes, towel, sleeping bag, pillow, and a chair or blanket to sit on outside. Children must be able to sleep overnight in a tent with an adult nearby, but not in the same tent. Ages 9+. Limit 12. $36 per child. Cost includes food and a camp T-shirt (INCLUDE SHIRT SIZE IN COMMENT BOX AT CHECKOUT). All children need a canoe consent form signed by a parent or legal guardian and brought with them to camp. Camp begins at 7 p.m. on July 13th and ends at 10 a.m. on July 14th.”

Iowa the Beautiful

Guided Nature and Forest Therapy Walk at the Park

Saturday, July 15 9-12 p.m.

“We invite you to unplug, slow down, and experience mindfulness in nature. This gentle three-hour walk will focus on using all your senses to explore Oakland Mills Park. Karen Szalkowski, with Forest Spirit LLC, is an Association of Nature and Forest Therapy certified guide and will lead you through nature explorations. This walk is based on Shinrin-yoku or forest therapy that can provide many positive health benefits such as lowered blood pressure, decreased anxiety, increased focus, relaxation, and a connection with nature. Please dress appropriately. Bring a light snack and water if you wish. You are welcome to bring a mat to sit on or a small camping chair. There will be mats available to use. We will hike if there is light rain so bring rain gear. Please meet at the Top-of-Hill shelter house. This program is geared toward those 16 and up. No pets. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to the start time so you are not left behind. Preregistration is required at mycountyparks.com on or before July 12th by 5 p.m. Maximum of 12 participants. FREE.”

Iowa Reptiles and Amphibians at the Park

Thursday, July 27 6 p.m.

“What types of scaly and slimy animals call Iowa home? Find out at this family friendly program! Join our naturalist as we discuss these fascinating creatures and see a few live animals as well. All ages are welcome. Preregistration is appreciated but not necessarily. FREE.”

Events for Men and Women

Women, Woods, Wine: Canoeing

Tuesday, July 18 5-7 p.m.

“This adult only club is for ladies looking to join other like-minded individuals to learn new outdoor skills and discuss conservation related topics. At each meeting we will begin with social time and wine followed by a presentation and/or activity. Wine will be provided but is limited to one glass per person. You may bring your own beverage if you would like. Preregistration is required via mycountyparks.com at least one week prior to the meeting so we can provide enough supplies. Adults 21+ only. All meetings will be held in the Oakland Mills Nature Center. FREE.

Go through a few canoe strokes and safety tips then get in a canoe and try it our for yourself! Preregistration is due by July 11th at 5 p.m.“

Boys, backwoods, beer: canoeing

Thursday, July 20 5-7 p.m.

“This adult only club is for guys looking to join other like-minded individuals to learn new outdoor skills and discuss conservation related topics. At each meeting we will begin with social time and beer followed by a presentation and/or activity. Beer will be provided but is limited to one bottle/can per person. You may bring your own beverage if you would like. Preregistration is required via mycountyparks.com at least one week prior to the meeting so we can provide enough supplies. Adults 21+ only. All meetings will be held in the Oakland Mills Nature Center. FREE.

Go through a few canoe strokes and safety tips then get in a canoe and try it out for yourself! Preregistration is due by July 13th at 5 p.m.“

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com