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Central Park


Cabins at Central Park The Jones County Conservation Board has two rental cabins located side by side at Central Park. These cabins are on the campground side of Central Park and overlook the lake. They provide a great opportunity for those who would like to camp but don't want to worry about the wind or rain.
Camping at Central Park Enjoy camping at Central Park with modern, semi modern and primitive camping available on a first come first serve basis. Park hours 4:30 AM - 10:30 PM. Quiet hours 9 PM - 8 AM. Camping available April 15 - October 15 weather permitting. Central Park Campground Map
Canoeing & Kayaking at Central Park This 297 acre park includes a 25 acre lake as well as a 7 acre pond. Paddleboat and kayak rentals are available Thursday - Sunday 10 am - 8 pm from Memorial Day - Labor Day weather permitting. (Life jackets are provided with the rentals) Paddleboat and Kayak Rentals are $10/hour or $5/half hour. Visit the Camp Host located across the road from the beach for rental and payment. Otherwise, bring your own kayak or canoe and enjoy a leisurely float around the picturesque lake.
Education at Central Park The Central Park Nature Center has several educational displays, hands on activities and live animal exhibits which can be viewed weekdays Monday - Friday. It is also the main office for the Jones County Conservation Board. It is recommended to call the office at ph:563-487-3541 to ensure it is open since off site programs and outdoor activities may require closing the Nature Center for short periods of time. From Memorial Day through Labor Day the Nature Center is open from 1 PM - 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.
Facility Rentals at Central Park The enclosed pavilion near the beach at Central Park and the 2 cabins located on the south side of the lake are available to reserve.
Fishing at Central Park This 297 acre park includes a 25 acre lake and a 7 acre pond. Both have good populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish for those who enjoy fishing.
Picnicking at Central Park Central Park has several picnic tables throughout the park as well as an open air shelter to enjoy a picnic. Explore the many trails, play at the playground, swim by the beach or visit the Nature Center. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the ADA sidewalk and step out onto the new fishing pier.
Swimming at Central Park Located near the center of Jones County, this 297 acre park includes a 25 acre lake (newly renovated) as well as a 7 acre pond. A playground area, swimming beach and sand volleyball court are near the enclosed pavilion next to the 25 acre lake. The beach is open to the public for enjoyment but no life guard is on duty. Swimming is at your own risk and children should be with an adult when near the beach / water area. Paddleboats and kayaks are available for rent Thursday - Sunday for $5/half hour and $10/hour. Visit the Camp Host (located across the road and up from the beach in the modern campground) to pay and reserve during those times.
Trails & Hiking at Central Park Central Park has many trails to enjoy on your next visit. You will be able to see an abundance of wildlife, trees, grasses and beauty along the various paths. STORM DAMAGE UPDATES: A few trails at Central Park are currently closed as storm cleanup continues. Please avoid storm debris and workers actively working to clean it up. Thank you for your patience.
Winter Activities at Central Park Dress warm and spend some time ice fishing in the newly renovated 25 lake or the 7 acre back pond. Both are stocked and ready for fishing opportunities. Remember snowshoes are available for use within Central Park. Schedule a time to checkout a pair of snowshoes from the Jones County Naturalist and try your snowshoeing skills. Some areas within the park work well for cross country skiing. Bring your own skis and give it a try.

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