ICON’s Youth Adventure Education Series

ICON launched its Youth Adventure Education Series this month, introducing four free programs designed to help youth connect with Central Iowa’s rivers and creeks. Through hands-on experiences, participants can explore the outdoors, learn about local waterways, build confidence around water, and discover the many recreational opportunities available throughout the ICON Water Trails network.

Whether your child enjoys reading, exploring nature, fishing, or learning new outdoor skills, there’s a program for every interest. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect from each one.

ICON Water Tales – Sponsored by Meta

Perfect for younger adventurers, ICON Water Tales combines story time with outdoor exploration. Children gather along the water to hear stories about rivers, wildlife, conservation, and the natural world while enjoying the outdoors.

Many sessions feature guest readers from the community. At our first session at Walker Johnston Park, Urbandale City Council Member Pat Boddy joined us as our guest reader. At an upcoming session in Johnston, Mayor Paula Dierenfeld will share the story.

Each event also includes a hands-on activity inspired by the day’s book, giving kids the chance to learn through play and creativity. While the program is best suited for children ages 0–7, families with children of all ages are welcome to attend.

Creek Stompers

If your child loves getting outside (and doesn’t mind getting a little muddy), Creek Stompers is the perfect adventure.

Participants step directly into a local creek to explore the ecosystem firsthand. Using nets and other discovery tools, kids search for aquatic insects, plants, and wildlife while learning about the important role healthy waterways play in our environment. Along the way, guides help identify what participants find and answer questions about the plants and animals that call our rivers and creeks home.

After exploring the creek, participants complete a worksheet to record what they discovered and reinforce what they learned.

Creek Stompers is best suited for ages 4–10. Participants should come prepared to get wet and dirty. Life jackets are provided when needed based on water conditions, and parents are welcome to join their children in the creek, though it isn’t required.

River Fishing

River Fishing introduces participants to the basics of fishing in a fun, supportive environment. Kids learn how to cast a line, identify common local fish species, practice safe fishing techniques, and better understand how rivers support aquatic life.

With guidance from experienced instructors, participants spend time fishing along the river while building patience, confidence, and an appreciation for the outdoors.

This program is best designed for youth ages 6–18.

River Safety Workshop

Learning to enjoy the water starts with learning how to stay safe around it.

The River Safety Workshop features interactive activities and demonstrations that teach participants how to recognize river hazards, properly wear and fit a life jacket, understand essential safety equipment, and make smart decisions while recreating on or near the water.

ICON partners with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources for this program, giving participants the opportunity to learn directly from water safety and outdoor recreation experts. Because water safety is important for everyone, this program is designed for youth of all ages.

Join Us!

Programs take place throughout the ICON Water Trails Regional Network and are free and open to the public, with advance registration required. Participants also receive a small take-home gift at each session related to that day’s activity.

The Youth Adventure Education Series is made possible through support from the Iowa DNR REAP Grant, Polk County, and Meta. Their investment is helping connect more youth to Central Iowa’s waterways through safe, educational, and engaging outdoor experiences. ICON also partners with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources on the River Fishing and River Safety Workshop programs, bringing additional expertise in fishing, water safety, and outdoor recreation to participants.