This amazing Iowa nature preserve opened in May. It’s worth a trip.
Over 35 acres of prairie land near the small town of Milford is now a recreation space for the surrounding communities.
Dickinson County received $75,600 to fund the Milford Creek Wildlife Area. This project expands land protection, programming, and conservation.
This was the site of the 1869 gristmill that inspired a great deal of growth in Dickinson County.
Area farmers camped in the area while waiting for their grain to be processed at the mill. The preserve is just south of Milford.
Here, you'll see many native plant species.
Purple cone flower, purple prairie clover, stiff sunflower, and many other perennials native to Iowa make this a beautiful area.
There is also abundant wildlife at Pioneer Park.
Visitors have observed more than 40 different types of birds including field sparrows, the common nighthawk, field sparrow, osprey, and even bald eagles.
Enjoy fishing in Milford Creek.
Game fish there include northern pike and spawning walleye in the spring. A grant from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Resource Enhancement and Protection department combined with a "bargain sale" from the owners of the property, Linda and Mike Knudtson, in addition to gifts from local donors and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation's Foote Fund made opening this new park in May of 2017 possible.
Locals call the area, "Old Town Milford."
Some of the original foundations of the old stone buildings are still here.
This park offers a wonderful and relaxing environment for a fun family day out.
The goal of the park is to help people foster an appreciation for Iowa's natural landscapes and the environment. Bring family and friends for a picnic, nature walk, or a fun day of fishing.
Pioneer Park Nature Preserve is located in northwestern Iowa.
The physical address of this new park is 2317 225th Ave., Milford.
Have you been to Iowa’s newest park? Tell us about it in the comments.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.