Boone County Conservation offers many areas to get out and enjoy nature. Below you will find a list of the eight Boone County Conservation recreational areas and what they have to offer.
Don Williams Lake
Don Williams is a recreational haven for the county of Boone. This 600-acre park allows us to offer a wide variety of recreation including: camping, boating, fishing, golfing, hiking, playgrounds, swimming, and much more.
More Details and a Map
For more information about this park:
Swede Point Park
Boone County’s best kept secret is out! This 128-acre little gem is located just west of Madrid, off of Highway 210. This small park offers: camping, hiking, picnicking, playgrounds, and more.
More Details and a Map
For more information about this park:
High Trestle Trail
Imagine riding your bike or walking across the Des Moines River Valley on one of the longest and highest pedestrian bridges in the world. This new attaction to Boone County offers nearly 10 miles of concrete trail for recreational use by pedestrians, bicyclists, nature enthusiasts, cross-country skiers, and equestrian rides as well. Pleae Note: Horses are not allowed on the bridge.
More information about the High Trestle Trail
Jay Carlson Wildlife Area
The Jay Carlson Wildlife area is located between Boone and Ogden off of old Highway 30. At this area you will find a sand prairie, fishing pond, and public hunting.
Map to find this Area
Mabaska
Mabaska means “swan” in Native American language and you will find a pair of Trumpeter Swans at this pond. Mabaska is 17 acres in size and is located just west of Ames between new Highway 30 and old Highway 30. Fishing and Hunting are prohibited in this area.
Map to find this Area
Buffalo Grove
This new addition to Boone County Conservation offers 127 acres of prairie and woodlands with Beaver creek passing through the park. Recreational opportunities include wildlife viewing, fishing, and public hunting.
Map to find this area
Rhoades Acres
Intended for public hunting, Rhoades Acres is two strips of land consisting of 160 acres of native grasses and woodlands. This park is located north of Pilot Mound on the Des Moines River flood plain. Parking is limited to the road.
Map to find this area
Dickcissel Park
Dickcisssel is located at the intersection of Highway 30 and Highway 17. This small 38-acre park is home to Trumpeter Swans in the winter and a good fishing location in the summer, as well as picnicking and other wildlife viewing.
Map to find this Area
Des Moines River Water Trail
The Boone County portion of the Des Moines River was designated as a state watertrail in the fall of 2009. Being a state watertrail, there are signs pointing you to the launch sites, informational kiosks, and signs along the bridges. There are approximately 38 river miles with 8 boat ramps making the Des Moines River a perfect place to canoe, kayak, boat, or float down. It’s a great place to fish, view wildlife, and relax. RIVER USERS BEWARE OF THE DAMS NEAR FRASIER AND BOONE WATERWORKS!!!
Map of Des Moines River Water Trail
Grant's Woods
This past winter (2013) Harold Grant of Madrid graciously donated his nearly 28 acre property to the Boone County Conservation Board. Portions of this newest addition to the Conservation Board are adjacent to the High Trestle Trail near the bridge. Currently parking is available on this property, but look for more to come on potential conservation and recreational opportunities that will be available.