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Students learning outdoors by a lake

Learn, Explore & Educate

Strengthen your knowledge about Iowa's natural beauty with educational programs, resources, and activities from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

  • Classroom & Teacher Resources
  • Boating Rules & Safety
  • Family Fishing Tips
  • Hunter Education & Safety
  • Paddling Education & Safety
  • Snowmobile Education & Safety

Learn & Explore

  • Classroom & Teacher Resources

    Get workshops and activities to explore the Iowa outdoors with your class and students.

  • Forest Safety & Learning

    Learn how to take care of Iowa's forests by preserving and protecting when you visit.

  • Project WILD & WILD Aquatic

    Access workshops, online guides, resources, and more to explore the wild outdoors.

  • Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW)

    An opportunity for anyone 18 years or older to learn outdoor skills associated with many outdoor pursuits.

Group of people exploring the mouth of Maquoketa Cave
Iowa State Parks Passport

Visit. Check In. Earn Prizes.

Sign up and download the Iowa State Parks Passport on your mobile device to earn points toward prizes and giveaway opportunities while discovering Iowa's hidden gems.

Explore the Parks Passport

News Releases

View All DNR News Releases
January 22, 2026

[Feb 13] Environmental Engineer - Land Quality Bureau

Launch your Environmental Engineer career with the DNR. Join the Land Quality Bureau for meaningful public service, hands-on experience, and work-life balance.

Employment
January 22, 2026

Water use permits for review, published 01/22/2026

The DNR Water Quality Bureau has the following draft water use permits posted for public review.

Water Use Permits
January 22, 2026

DNR to accept public comment for 401 certification of permit

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is accepting public and stakeholder comments regarding Section 401 Water Quality Certification permits.

Water Quality Certifications
January 21, 2026

DNR postponing trout stockings in Sioux City, Fort Dodge and Council Bluffs

Iowa DNR is postponing the trout stockings scheduled for tomorrow and Friday in Sioux City, Fort Dodge and Council Bluffs due to extreme cold and wind.

News - Featured
Trout Fishing
January 20, 2026

Missouri and Big Sioux rivers paddlefish fishing season opens Feb. 1 2026

The paddlefish snagging season on the Missouri and Big Sioux rivers opens Feb. 1 and goes through April 30 (sunrise to sunset).

Fishing - Uncommon Fish
January 20, 2026

DNR sets public meetings to recap hunting, trapping seasons, discuss possible rule changes

Iowa (DNR) is hosting a series of town hall-style meetings where local staff will provide updates on recently completed hunting and trapping seasons.

News - Featured
Hunting

Department of Natural Resources

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Iowa DNR Customer Service

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Des Moines, IA 50321

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