The Raccoon River serves as a backdrop for summer recreation in central Iowa. Whiterock Conservancy in Coon Rapids will be hosting an event celebrating the waterway with the Raccoon River Recreation and Appreciation Day on Saturday, June 2nd.

There will be plenty of free activities from 9am-10pm at the conservancy. Activities in the morning and early afternoon hours include: canoe and kayak river floats, free boat rentals and shuttles, guided hikes, horseback rides, and mountain bike rides for National Trails Day.

There will be a hawk release at 4:30pm at the River House Yard, sponsored by Saving Our Avian Resources (SOAR). At 5 Barrel Smoke BBQ will be selling dinner at the River Campground. The day’s festivities conclude with a dance party starting at 7pm in the River House Barn featuring Bob Dorr and the Limestoners.

Schedule of Activities:

*9:00, 10:30, 1:00 or 2:30 – Free Canoe or Kayak rental and shuttle – River Campground
Reserve your float time by calling 712-790-8221 x1. Walk-ins accepted if boats are available.

*9:30 – Guided Horse Ride – Oak Ridge Campground (bring your own horse)

*9:30 and 1:30 – Guided Hike – River Campground

*2:00 – Guided Mountain Bike Ride – Star Field Campground

*4:30 – Hawk Release – River House Yard

*5:00 – Barrel Smoke BBQ selling dinner – River Campground

*7:00 – Bob Dorr and the Limestoners – River House Barn – Bring your lawn chair, food and drinks to enjoy an evening along the river.