Discovery Park

This 100-acre park in Muscatine is a natural area in an urban environment. Walking trails, fishing ponds, and the Environmental Learning Center invite people of all ages to come and explore nature. It is located on Cedar Street off Highway 61. See a bird’s-eye view of Discovery Park & the Muscatine Arboretum here.

Habitat & Features

  • 100 acres
  • Reclaimed farmstead
  • Reconstructed prairie
  • Wooded hillsides
  • Small streams
  • 2 Fishing ponds – Discovery Pond with accessible fishing dock (near the park entrance ) & Heron Hideway Pond (behind the Environmental Learning Center)
  • Muscatine Arboretum

Amenities & Facilities

  • Environmental Learning Center – Free and open to the public 7-days a week (except holidays)!
  • 3 Picnic Shelters – Reserve a shelter
  • 300_Playground_DPNature themed playground
  • 1.5 miles paved hiking/biking trails
  • 2 miles mowed trails
  • Accessible fishing dock – on Discovery Pond
  • Wildlife viewing blind
  • Outdoor raptor enclosure
  • Restrooms
  • Historic cemetery

Activities

  • Fishing (ice fishing not allowed)
  • Walking/biking
  • Nature study
  • Picnicking
  • Birding
  • Geocaching
  • Public nature programs

Rules & Regulations

Special Use Permits

Are required to hold any event that meets one or more of the following criteria. The application must be filed with Muscatine County Conservation at least 45 days before the event. There is a non-refundable application  fee of $25 and proof of liability insurance is required.

  1. Any event where 100 or more people are expected to attend.
  2. Weddings and/or Receptions
  3. Any event that charges admission
  4. Any event that advertises it is open to the public

Contact the Muscatine County Conservation Office for a Special Use Permit.

Other Info

This park was once the site of the Muscatine County Farm. In its heyday, residents helped work the farm and enjoyed the fruits of their labor!

Location & Maps

  • On Cedar Street in Muscatine, just off Highway 61
  • Park Map – aerial photo with trails, boundaries, etc