Palo Alto

The purpose of the County Conservation Board is to conserve the natural resources of the county; to acquire, develop, maintain, and make available public parks, preserves, recreation conservation areas; to provide adequate programs of public recreation; and to help educate local residents about the natural world.  The Palo Alto County Conservation manages 2,800 acres of public forest, marshes, prairies, and parks. Habitat management includes tree planting, prairie and wetland restoration, wildlife food plots, fish stocking, and nesting structures for ducks, geese, and songbirds. 

Location

Ruthven, Iowa - USA

Features

Experience the simplicity of our parks and wildlife areas. Play outdoors....canoe, camp, hike, hunt, fish, picnic, and or swim.  See colorful prairie flowers along our roadways or enjoy the wildlife at our marshes. Bag your limit of pheasants in our prairies or chase the elusive white-tail deer in our timbers. Explore the river and catch that big fish. Take advantage of the nine miles of trails for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.  Pack a lunch, relax, and unwind at the end of the day with a beautiful sunset. 

Operating Hours & Seasons

Nature Center Hours:


Open year-round


Mid April - December

Wednesday - Friday, 9 am - 4 pm
Saturday & Sunday, 1 pm - 4pm


January - Mid April

Wednesday - Friday, 9 am - 4 pm