Boone Forks Region

The Boone Forks Region is comprised of three counties, Webster, Hamilton, and Boone and was created to bring parks to people.


The Boone Forks Region boasts the internationally recognized High Trestle Trail to the south, the breathtaking Des Moines River Valley as its backbone, star woodlands throughout and a series of vibrant and revitalizing communities. All of this is embedded in an agricultural context, rich in history and heritage.


Come explore with us!

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  • 1. What is the background of the Boone Forks Region?

    A: The Boone Forks Region has a rich history of mining, river mills, agriculture, and life in the early-settlement of the Boone and Des Moines River Valley. The river valleys have always played a key role in the development and livelihood of the region and that tradition continues today in the parks, natural resources, and recreational opportunities that exist today. 

  • 2. What is there to do in the region?

    A: The Boone Forks Region is full of things to do with three state parks, two state preserves, and nearly 50 county park assets, not to mention historic and cultural sites. Come enjoy the trails, an off-highway vehicle park, water trails, winer sports, parks, and equestrian trails. Don't miss the 110 ft grain silo mural, museums, and so much more!

  • 3. How did the Boone Forks concept start?

    A: The concept was created in 2014 when representatives from Boone, Hamilton, and Webster Counties came together to submit an application for a new state pilot program called "Parks to People." The program's vision was for self-defined regions to celebrate their "exceptional places and experiences in every day lives." While the Boone Forks Region was not selected for the pilot program, the Iowa Parks Foundation granted the region a $20,000 match-grant to continue the planning process. This grant paved the way for the regional partners to continue their work of celebrating the parks, natural resources, recreation, and cultural assets in the Des Moines and Boone River Valleys. 

  • 4.What are the five strategies of the program?

    A: Great Places - Great Experiences, Connected Parks, Healthy Parks - Healthy People, Community & Cultural Vitality, and Lasting Legacy.