Jasper County’s Rock Creek State Park is again participating in the Iowa Department of Natural Resources “First Day Hikes”, joining more than forty state parks across the state to host free self-guided or group guided hikes on January 1st. 

Rock Creek State Park northeast of Kellogg, at 5627 Rock Creek East, has a self-guided hike in oak timber on the half mile Interpretative Trail that tells the natural history of the area. Hikers are asked to park at the concession area and start at the trail head by the concession building. Normal park hours are 4 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Chief of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ State Parks, Forests, and Preserves Bureau Sherry Arntzen says these “First Day Hikes” are a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature, and welcome the New Year.

“It’s a fantastic way for people to get out and start the year. If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to get healthy, go out and enjoy getting healthy at a state park.” 

Questions about the “First Day Hike” at Rock Creek State Park should be directed to the park office at (641) 236-3722.