Jester Park Nature Center

Polk County's Lead Nature Center

Jester Park Nature Center is operated by Polk County Conservation and acts as the lead nature center for the Des Moines metro. Set inside 1,800-acre Jester Park with live native wildlife exhibits, trails, and pond access. Reassigned to Des Moines as the metro hub.

Camps, School Visits, and Family Programs

Programs include:
- Summer nature camps
- Naturalist-led school field trips
- Family drop-in programs
- Birthday parties on the preserve
- Scout achievement programs

What's Included

• Live native-Iowa wildlife exhibits
• Trail access in the surrounding park
• Naturalist staff and programs
• Group rate booking

Experience

Outdoor nature center on a large county park. Best for kids who like animals, hikes, and unstructured nature time after the program ends.