Benton County

Benton County Conservation improves the quality of life for all by providing recreational and educational opportunities that foster stewardship of our natural resources. 

The Benton County Conservation Board (BCCB) manages more than 1,700 acres across 22 different properties, over 40 miles of trails, 225 campsites, a growing nature center, and offers high-quality educational programming in and out of the schools for over 20,000 educational contacts annually. We invite you to enjoy our quiet and serene natural areas, hiking, equestrian, and river trails, and campgrounds that offer outstanding recreational opportunities.

History

In 1955, the Iowa State Legislature passed a law providing for the creation of county conservation boards. In 1956, public vote of Benton County residents authorized the creation of the Benton County Conservation Board. The BCCB was one of sixteen counties in Iowa to make a conservation board that year. The BCCB has been working on preserving Iowa’s natural heritage since that day. The BCCB built the first man-made lake by a county conservation department in the state of Iowa, "Hannen Lake.” These properties include bike and hiking trails, preserves, boat ramps, and campground facilities.

Benton County Conservation campgrounds are open mid-April to the end of October.

Benton County Conservation

5718 20th Avenue Drive

Vinton Iowa 52349

Phone: 319-472-4942

Email: info@bentoncountyparks.com

Visit the Benton County website for maps, closures, updates, etc.: www.bentoncountyia.gov/conservation/

Like us on Facebook for closures, updates, events, pictures, etc.: www.facebook.com/bentoncountyparks/

Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/bentoncountyconservation/

Catch up on The Nature of Things Newsletter: www.bentoncountyia.gov/conservation/newsletter/

Click here to receive The Nature of Things Newsletter!