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Eden Valley Refuge
The Refuge
From the earliest blooming hepatica to the brilliant fall colors and
snow-covered trails, Eden Valley Refuge offers a refreshing and natural
experience for the visitor. The limestone bluffs and forested hills teem
with plant and animal life.
The park's 201 acres are nestled
along the banks of Bear Creek, approximately two miles south of the town
of Baldwin. The area was purchased in 1970 and is operated and maintained
by the Clinton County Conservation Board.
The Programs
Eden Valley is an outdoor haven for those interested in reacquainting
themselves with the natural world. The park serves as an outdoor classroom
for many area school children. The different land and water habitats allow
for unique and varying learning opportunities. School programs are conducted
autumn through spring and require advance reservations. Non-school group
programs are also available.
A diverse and innovative public program is conducted
throughout the year. Wildflower hikes, night hikes, recreational activities,
and other environmental events make up this program. Area newspaper and
radio stations publicize upcoming public events as does the quarterly newsletter
"Prairie Whispers". The newsletter can be obtained by calling
the Clinton County Conservation Board.
The nature center at Eden Valley is designed to interpret and serve
as a gateway to Eden Valley Refuge. Displays and educational exhibits may
be viewed during public hours. Private meeting rate for educational groups is
$15.
The Facilities
Eden Valley Refuge has a lot to offer the nature lover. Numerous, unique
picnic spots can be found throughout the park.
Approximately four miles
of hiking trails wind their way through the park, including over a swinging
bridge. The Bear Creek Nature Trail takes take you along the stream and
other trails take you to the beautiful back valley.
Camping enthusiasts may utilize the modern campground on the banks of Bear Creek.
Non-electric sites are $10 per night and electric sites are $15. Primitive campground is located in the back valley for those who prefer
to backpack their gear in, site are free. Youth Groups may camp at the rate of
$2 per tent in designated sites. Restrooms are located in both camping areas as
well as by the nature center. Water is available at the throughout the
main campground.
 
The Bunkhouse sleeps 12 and is available for use by registration through
the Board Office at a cost of $40 per night. Youth groups are $3/person/night ($40 max.).
$100 deposit per stay. It sleeps twelve and includes wood burner,
range, refrigerator, air conditioning, sleeping loft, vinyl sleeping mats,
electricity, and seclusion. Guest must pack their gear into the Bunkhouse
1/8 mile into the park. Call 563-847-7202.
- 2 small semi-modern rental cabins -
$25/day w/AC,
+ $50 deposit, includes four bunks, refrigerator, electricity and
elevated deck. Located next to the Nature Center.
The picnic shelter is free to use, but it is $15 to reserve. Email us
or call 563-847-7202.
The Swinging Bridge
The Tower
The Great Stone Face
 Please Remember:
Do not collect or destroy any plants or animals.
Fires in designated areas only.
Keep pets on leash.
Horses and motor vehicles are not allowed on the trails.
Firearms and hunting are prohibited in the park.
Help keep our parks clean, use the barrels provided for your litter.
Click here to see a photo albums of
Nature Center Public Hours:
Saturdays, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
May through October
Park Officer: 563-357-4134
Board Office: 563-847-7202
Fax: 563-847-7204
Email: conservation@clintoncountyiowa.com
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