Kuehn Conservation Area
Kuehn Conservation Area has 770 acres and is located 5 miles north of Earlham. The diversity of plant and animal life attracts thousands of visitors annually. Bird watching, stargazing, prairie hikes, and aquatic programs are offered seasonally for the public by naturalists at Dallas County Conservation Board. Naturalists also provide educational opportunities for school and organized groups.
Location
Kuehn Conservation Area
32828 Houston Trail
Earlham, IA 50072
*Please note that GPS may not lead you to the correct location, so use these directions instead.
From Interstate 80
• Take the Earlham exit (exit 104)
• Proceed north to I Avenue. Stay northbound for approximately 1 mile to the 4-way stop intersection.
• Turn west (left) onto Bear Creek Road. Proceed ½ mile.
• The road will turn north and become Houston Trail, which dead-ends at the park.
From the north, on county road F60 (Old Highway 6) between Adel and Redfield
• Turn south on H Avenue
• Proceed approximately 4 miles to Bear Creek Road.
• Turn east (left) and proceed ½ mile to the T intersection at Houston Trail.
• Turn north (left) and proceed approximately 2 miles to the park.
Features
Kuehn
Conservation Area features native and re-established prairies, riparian and
upland forests, unique geological formations, archaeological sites, and hiking
trails. A birdblind provides excellent conditions for birdwatching. The park is
home to the annual Prairie Awakenings/Prairie Awoke Celebration and has a seasonal
tipi and council ring. Sandbars, when exposed, provide beautiful resting spots
for viewing wildlife while hiking or canoeing the South Raccoon River. Hunting
is permitted in designated areas. Primitive campgrounds, both reservable and first-come/first-serve, provide a truly back-to-nature experience. Modern restrooms are located in the Bear
Creek Education Center.
Operating Hours & Seasons
Kuehn Conservation Area is open 30 minutes before sunrise until 10pm daily, year-round.
The Bear Creek Education Center is open for programs only.
