Black Hawk County Conservation

Reel in the fun at Kids Fishing Day- tomorrow at Big Woods Lake 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

No experience needed — we’ll teach participants how to fish and explore the outdoors. Perfect for young anglers!
✔ Free event – worms provided!
✔ Fishing gear available if you don’t have your own
✔ Learn about local wildlife
✔ Prizes and activities!

Parking Info:
See map in post. Park in the large lot at the NW corner of Big Woods Lake, or use accessible parking available near the campground area.

Black Hawk County

June 5-7 is Iowa’s Free Fishing Weekend
Iowa residents can try fishing without buying a license on June 5, 6 and 7 as part of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) free fishing weekend. All other regulations remain in place.

Find a Free Fishing Weekend Event Near You
To attend a fun hands-on fishing event to help you and your family get started fishing, go to: https://loom.ly/4zpN1Ik

Speaking of local events:
Black Hawk County Conservation is hosting a Kids Fishing Day on June 6 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
FREE- Bring your own rod and reel — or borrow one of ours! Worms provided!
📍 Big Woods Lake – Northwest parking lot (corner of Big Woods Road & E. Lake Street)

SAVE THE DATE - Kids Fishing Day at Big Woods Lake!
Join us June 6 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for this FREE family-friendly event where kids can learn how to fish and discover more about our local lakes, rivers, and wildlife.
Bring your own rod and reel — or borrow one of ours! Worms provided!

OUTDOOR PRIZES and FUN for all ages!

📍 Big Woods Lake – Northwest parking lot (corner of Big Woods Road & E. Lake Street)
Follow the trail east to the event site. (see map below.)

Black Hawk County offices are closed today in observance of Memorial Day, but our parks and campgrounds are open! Regular office hours will resume on Tuesday, May 26.

Rain or shine, adventure is ON! ⛺
All Black Hawk County campgrounds are OPEN and ready for you.
Campsites are first‑come, first‑serve. Who's ready for a campfire night?

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Tomorrow!
Join us as we celebrate the completion of the Casey Lake restoration:
May 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Lakeview Lodge at Hickory Hills Park
3338 Hickory Hills Road, LaPorte City

In case of inclement weather, the event will be held inside Lakeview Lodge.

CONSTRUCTION NOTICE:
The Black Hawk County Conservation Administration office will be closed Monday, May 11, and Tuesday, May 12, while the parking lot is under construction. Staff can be reached by email at [email protected]. The office is expected to open for business on Wednesday, May 13.

Black Hawk County

EVENT REMINDER! 🎉
Does the beautiful weather this weekend have you thinking about getting outdoors? Us too! Especially at Hickory Hills Park!

Join our BHC Conservation Team on Tuesday as we officially celebrate the completion of the Casey Lake:
May 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Lakeview Lodge at Hickory Hills Park
3338 Hickory Hills Road, LaPorte City

This project represents a major milestone for our community with enhancements to recreation, conservation, and the overall visitor experience for years to come. We hope to see you there!

In case of inclement weather, the event will be held inside Lakeview Lodge.

Black Hawk County Conservation invites the public to celebrate the official ribbon cutting and reopening of Casey Lake on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Hickory Hills Park at 3338 Hickory Hills Road.

Originally constructed in 1970, the 37.5-acre Casey Lake has long served as the centerpiece of Hickory Hills Park. The two-year major restoration project included watershed, shoreline, and water quality improvements to preserve Casey Lake’s recreational value, ecological health, and natural beauty.

This restoration, years in the making, marks a significant milestone for the community. The project enhances the enjoyment of the lake for visitors and improves habitats for fish and other wildlife, ensuring a healthier, more vibrant ecosystem for generations to come.

“This started as a vision many years ago,” said Mike Hendrickson, Conservation Director. “We are proud to celebrate the renewed future of Casey Lake and the benefits it will bring to our community for years to come.”

The restoration project was made possible through the support of state and local funding resources, reflecting a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community recreation.

Community members, partners, and media are welcome and encouraged to attend the ceremony. For more information, please contact Black Hawk County Conservation at 319-433-7275 or email [email protected]