What to Expect at the Loess Hills Prairie Seminar?

Get ready for a weekend of wild learning, nature-loving fun, and community connection in the beautiful Loess Hills of Iowa! Now in its 49th year, the Loess Hills Prairie Seminar is a totally free annual event that brings together conservationists, educators, nature nerds, and curious minds of all ages for hands-on adventures and outdoor exploration.

The excitement kicks off Friday with the G.R.A.S.S. (Great Race Against Shrubs and Shade) event—where volunteers team up with environmental pros to help restore prairie land by clearing invasive brush. It's a great way to roll up your sleeves and do something that makes a real impact. Tools, good shoes, and can-do spirit highly encouraged!

Friday evening, we shift into full seminar mode with a mix of interactive exhibits, engaging talks, and plenty of time to mingle with fellow nature enthusiasts. Vendors, displays, and a silent auction add to the buzz—and yes, there’s even a special kids’ program so young explorers can get in on the action too.

Most of the fun takes place outdoors at the scenic seminar campsite, which also serves as a free camping area for attendees. Bring your tent or camper and enjoy late-night campfires, stargazing, and pop-up activities that keep the good vibes going after dark.

Throughout the weekend, you’ll find a wide variety of sessions running—think guided hikes, yoga, wildlife programs, nature crafts, and so much more. Many favorite programs from previous years are back by popular demand, alongside exciting new additions you won’t want to miss.

We wrap up on Sunday with more fun in the field, including a close-up encounter with raptors courtesy of SOAR (Save Our Avian Resources). It’s a memorable finale that soars—literally!

So pack your curiosity, your camping gear, and your love for the outdoors—we’ll see you on the prairie!

Answers to Common Questions:

Attendees are free to retire to their campsites at the seminar campground at any time.
Attendees are free to come and go from the seminar at any time.
Breakfast will be provided with a minimum suggested donation listed.
Catered meals are available for purchase prior to the seminar for Saturday Lunch and Dinner.
Attendees are free to make plans for meals other than the catered options and we may have surplus catered meals available for sale in very limited quantities at the seminar, but no guarantee.
Meal options are viewable under the Meal Info tab at the top of the page.
The Registration link is available under the Registration tab at the top of the page when registration is open. Registration will be open from May 10th - May 24th for 2024.
There are no power hook ups or running water at the outdoor seminar site, but people are free to bring tents, campers, or RVs to sleep in.
We provide a barrel of potable drinking water and several porta-johns.
While there are no outlets at the seminar, we will try to have a solar charging station available for charging small personal devices.
As per IA DNR regulations for IA DNR Wildlife Management Areas: "No dogs are allowed on all state-owned game management areas between March 15 and July 15 of each year, except on designated training areas."

What to Expect at the Loess Hills Prairie Seminar?

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