Hitchcock Nature Center

Spring is in full swing! Take a guided spring hike and discover all the edible and medicinal plants that are beginning to emerge this time of year. Become familiar with interesting spring folklore and seasonal practices associated with the coming of May. Learn how fairy tales and traditional stories contain a lexicon for being in dialogue with the natural world. We will also discuss how you can incorporate wild foods and medicines into your own garden. Ages 16+ please. $10 per person. Park entry fee included in registration. Please meet at the Loess Hills Lodge.

Have you ever wished you could confidently build a campfire? Or, maybe you'd like to learn how to successfully build a fire in a survival scenario using only naturaly occuring materials? Perhaps you're interested in understanding the role fire has played in shaping Iowa's ecological communities?  If so, then this class is for you! This program is designed for adults and older teens who are new to outdoor skills, and who have a desire to deepen their place-based knowlege. Join naturalist Dustin Clayton and learn how to build a fire using a variety of techniques and materials.  We will have lots of time for practice and experimentation with the different methods discussed.

The early bird gets breakfast! Join us for a tasty assortment of breakfast items while learning about Iowa's feathered friends with accomplished birder Nic Salick. Learn more about the species that call Iowa home, get tips and tricks to improve your own bird identification skills, and see who's visiting the feeders from your indoor vantage point at the beautiful Loess Hills Lodge. This indoor program is designed for learners age 12 & over please. Cost is $15.00 per person & includes park admission, programming, and breakfast. Please meet at the Loess Hills Lodge. Be sure to indicate any food allergies when registering. For questions not answered online please call 712-545-3283.

Listen for the melodic melodies of the natural world. What natural objects make sound? How have people made music using natural materials over the years? Join us as we jam out with nature! Cost for this event is $5.00 per person for children ages 3 and over and covers your park entry fee.

This session is free for all attendees and is intended for participants aged 14 and older with an interest in the natural world. Kick off our 2025 season (and 8th year!) of "A Land Ethic Workshop." This free, introductory session will be held at Hitchcock Nature Center and is perfect for anyone with an interest in conservation and a desire to develop a better understanding of the natural world outside their own front door. Join us and celebrated educator Ron Cisar as we introduce participants to our 10-month-long programming series, "A Land Ethic Workshop".

Imagine the thrill of catching a fish with a fly you tied yourself! Come learn the art of fly tying with the Cornhusker Fly Fishers. All materials and equipment provided. Best suited for ages 12+. Youth ages 12 to 15 must come with an accompanying adult. Pre-registration for this event is required as supplies are limited.