Polk

Learn how to use a GPS and go search the park to find nests of hidden eggs, collecting prizes and candy along the way. Keep an eye out for the “golden egg” worth a special prize!

Let your imagination run wild with this fun, nature-themed story time! Hear a story followed by the naturalist’s choice of an activity such as an animal encounter, puppets or a craft.

On the first Friday of the month join one of our naturalists as they lead an environmental education program specifically created for homeschool students.

April showers equal rainwater runoff. Discover ways to utilize the rainwater from rain barrels to raingardens. Bring your questions and join other like-minded individuals trying to find ways to live more sustainably.

Explore the natural healing path of Shinrin Yoku or Japanese Forest bathing with Brandy Case Haub, a certified forest guide. This mindful walk will invite you to use your senses to enhance your well-being.

Mammoths, mastodons, and giant ground sloths peak your curiosity? Join in on an overview of Iowa’s geological past and the survival of early humans in Iowa. We will take a “behind the scene” tour of the recently opened artifact exhibit.

Join us each month for a season of learning at the Jester Park Nature Center. This program series will be delivered in a flexible format that is specially designed for homeschool students.

Gather your friends and family together for a night of fun at Jester Park’s Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center. Opportunities will be available for bouldering (age 4+) and archery (age 10+).

Do you hear that? That’s the sound of us exploring nature and its many sounds! Join us as we listen and create our own sounds using materials we find in nature.

Five days of explorations in nature…what could be better than that!?! Come and spend a week at Jester Park hiking, playing games, working on projects, and getting to be part of the nature that is all around us.

If you have a young experience paddler looking for a challenge, then this camp is for them. We will explore two different Central Iowa rivers and test their paddling skills.

Discover the wonders of nature and unlock some of nature’s mysteries. How does a snake catch it’s food? Can a lizard really regrow its tail? Whose footprints were left in the mud? Bring your nature detective skills for two days of discovery.