The Osborne Conservation Center offers a wide variety of programs to students from preschool to high school, the general public, and specialty groups. Some of the programs offered at the Osborne Center include; archery, native wildlife exhibit tours, canoeing, nature walks, geocaching, scavenger hunts, and animal identification.

The Osborne Nature Center Winter hours are November-March, Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

Spring/Summer/Fall hours are April-October,  Monday-Saturday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM & Sundays 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM. 

The Osborne Nature/Welcome Center will be closed on 
Tuesday, December 24, 2024, and Wednesday, December 25, 2024
Wednesday, January 1, 2025

 

For a more detailed list of programs offered, or information about all the Clayton County parks and areas, please utilize the following contact information:

CLAYTON COUNTY CONSERVATION
29862 Osborne Road
Elkader, IA 52043
PHONE: (563) 245-1516
EMAIL: cccb@claytoncountyia.gov
WEBSITE: http://www.claytoncountyconservation.org

Clayton County Conservation Facebook 

Clayton County Conservation Instagram

Clayton County Conservation News/Blog

Donate to the Osborne Partners for Education Endowment Fund to financially contribute to the educational programs we provide to local students! The Osborne Partners for Education Endowment Fund was started by Susi Nehls and Roy Blair in memory of Susi's father, Dr. Joe Hickey. Dr. Hickey's research led to the legislation that protected birds of prey like the bald eagle. Dr. Hickeys passion for teaching others about the natural world was sparked early by adults who introduced him to the wonders of nature. 

Activities in Clayton County

Clayton County hosts thousands of campers every year. Campgrounds with full amenities are available at many private campgrounds located in the scenic hills of Northeast Iowa. The County Conservation Board campgrounds offer basic campsites with no “hook ups” provided. A public water hydrant (Bloody Run & Motor Mill campgrounds), restrooms and fire rings are available with a nominal camping fee. Two of the Clayton County Conservation Campgrounds prohibit the use of generators, these are Frieden Park and Joy Springs. The other Clayton County Conservation campgrounds allow quiet generator use in the campgrounds. 

In addition to camping, the Clayton CCB offers many recreational activities such as disc golf, hiking, education programs, hunting, picnicking, fishing, boating and much, much more!

Clayton County has many multi-use trails. Check out the Clayton County Conservation trail guide for more information. Planning a trip to Clayton County? Check out our Clayton County Recreation Itinerary to get some inspiration for your next visit! 

Facilities in Clayton County

Facilities available for public use include open shelters, trails, education center and many more! Camping season ends the 1st of November each year. This is when water hydrants get turned off & the park gates get closed. 

Parks in Clayton County

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