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Allows anyone ages 6-18, to enjoy the outdoors with professional guidance and family participation. The goal of this program is to encourage children and their families to participate in environmental education programs which will increase their knowledge and enjoyment of Iowa’s natural and cultural resources. There are two age groups: Junior Naturalist Level 1 (6-12 years of age) and Junior Naturalist Level 2 (13-18 years of age). JUNIOR NATURALIST LEVEL 1 (6-12 years of age) have five requirements to complete to receive the achievement award: 1. Attend three public programs. Examples include: wildflower hikes, night hikes, mammal programs, reptile programs, stargazing programs, etc.. 2. Complete two independent activities. Examples include: reading a nature book, going fishing, camping, hiking, etc. JUNIOR NATURALIST LEVEL 2 (13-18 years of age) have five requirements to complete to receive the achievement award: 1. Attend three public programs. Examples include: wildflower hikes, night hikes, mammal programs, reptile programs, stargazing programs, etc. 2. Complete two independent activities. Examples include: reading a nature book, going fishing, camping, hiking, etc. **One of the independent activities for Level 2 must be a one hour (or more) voluntary commitment toward a public conservation event.

Offers children ages 4–6 an opportunity to dress up as a princess and participate in nature-based activities. Services include learning about courageous women from history, exploring nature, and participating in a tea party with a snack.

Provides programs and services to seniors and their families to get out of the house, make new friends, and learn about the world of nature. Visit website for dates and times.

Summer camp program for youth entering grades 1-12. Programs have a Christian focus and include time to explore the outdoors, build relationships, and experience fun challenges in a safe environment.

- Other activities include archery, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, crafts, games and challenge course. Specialty camps available to older age groups. Day camp available for local residents.

Offers a place for both environmental education and outdoor recreational activities. Outdoor recreational opportunities include boating, hiking, camping, equestrian activities, playground and playscape areas for children to play in natural playgrounds where no metal or plastic were used to create the playground areas. Winter activities include cross country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing. Environment educational exhibits and information about wildlife and their habitats can be found in the bottom level of the Nature Center. Exhibits include Wetlands Island, Prairie Island, Woodland Island, a Habitat Wall and the Naturalist Nook. RECREATIONAL SPORTING EQUIPMENT RENTALS are offered at the Jester Park Nature Center. Summer and winter equipment rentals include backpacks, canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, cross-country skis, and snowshoes. **Environmental education options for educators are also available. Opportunities include classroom field trips, classroom programs (Kindergarten - 8th grade), high school programs, preschool programs and free educational resources for classroom learning. Educators should call the Nature Center for more information about these programs.