(Hamburg)--We don't have to miss out on the beauty that's in our "own back yard." All we have to do is drive to Waubonsie State Park, about halfway between Hamburg and Sidney just off of Highway 2.

Park Manager, Kevin Thorne, and Park Technician, Matthew Moles invite all of us to check out the splendor of Waubonsie, especially now as the gorgeous fall colors are on full display.

Waubonsie has been a state park since 1926 with a lot of the original work and development done by the Civilian Conservation Corps through the Depression Relief Project.

Folks from far and wide enjoy the many miles of trails, including family-friendly and handicap accessible trails as well as trails for horse enthusiasts and even those who enjoy riding snowmobiles when the white stuff covers the ground.

One of the biggest developments for the park over the years was the major acquisition of a girl scout camp in 2005 which increased the size of Waubonsie by around 720 acres. With that acquisition came many cabins and a nature center; all of which needed major upgrades and updating. So, with state appropriations dollars that's exactly what has been taking place.

Thorne says eight cabins have been renovated with two more on the calendar to get done. There are two "styles" of cabins; family and camping with various stay opportunities available as well.

As for the old girl scout nature center, well, you should see it now. The new lodge has been renovated and modernized from top to bottom, it has a beautiful fireplace and can accommodate at least 160 people both upstairs, downstairs and on the scenic patio and deck.

Future renovations will include the dining hall and the swimming pool.

All of these improvements to beautiful Waubonsie State Park of course take money. With that in mind, Kevin (left in photo) and Matt (right in photo) are reminding us of a very important local forum which will be held Monday, October 15th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at the newly renovated lodge. At the meeting DNR staff will ask for feedback on concerns and opportunities for Waubonsie as well as the future of Iowa's state park system as a whole.

They'll be asking for our ideas and recommendations on how Iowa state parks can continue to be premier destinations for many years to come, including Waubonsie State Park.

Kevin and Matt encourage us to bring a guest to the meeting, where vital input will help to shape the bright future of Waubonsie State Park for many years to come.

We thank Matt and Kevin for their dedication to one of our local treasures as they continue to encourage all of us to get out to Waubonsie and take it all in. If you have any questions please call the park office at 712-382-2786 or go to www.iadnr.com.

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