F.W. Kent Park — Hotel in Oxford Township

Educational Center: We took our first grade class here on a day trip. There were educational and enjoyable presentations. It was raining but they had indoor alternatives available. There are interactive exhibits in one room open to the public. We ended with a guided hike full of information about local plants, some of which students were allowed to taste, which they loved.

Swimming beach: There are two connected swimming sections. Both are very shallow. There is a short and wide section adjacent to the beach and a short and narrow section beyond to that. Both are contained within floating ropes. I am 5'8" tall. The deepest part of the "shallow end" was only mid-calf, and (since it is a beach entry lake) the shallowest part was zero depth. The "deep end" of the roped off swimming area only reached waist height. This is probably desirable for parents of toddlers and lower elementary age students, of whom there were many at the beach. But older swimmers would most likely prefer a deeper swimming area such as can be found at other lakes in the area

There are both restrooms and changing areas at the top of a paved path which connects the parking area to the beach. The changing area was not large enough for me to assist the teenage wheelchair user I brought to the beach; he needs enough space to lay down in order to change...

I discovered this place randomly while driving through Tiffin, Iowa from Iowa City. I hardly had any expectations when I pulled in, but was instantly amazed at the beauty of this park.

This park is a part of Prairie restoration project. There are some wonderful view points from where one can enjoy the beauties of the park, and try to imagine the beautiful Prairie landscape of the yesteryears. Time seems to be in a standstill at this park. I saw many beautiful birds, butterflies and flowers there. It's so quiet that I could hear insects and birds while driving with my windows down. The roads in the park offer a very scenic drive.

The education center concerning the Prairie restoration was closed, though it could be because it was a Sunday. I didn't go to the lake, as it seems that the road leading to it was blocked. I didn't take any trails, but there are a few very beautiful ones covered in lush green grasses that I want to come back and try.

There are many educational signs and boards about the history and landscape of the area. There are also binoculars to watch distant birds and butterflies, and whatever else you fancy! It was very calm and quiet. Definitely would recommend.

The lake and the beach is open, and is...

A visit to FW Kent Park is the highlight of a drive in Eastern Iowa. I would give this park more stars if possible. This is a very large and magnificently maintained state park that contains trails, interpretive displays, the Johnson County conservation center, a lake, fishing and swimming opportunities, and many varied picnic spots. There is a campground I must admit I've not seen. This forested and prairie meadow nature experience is the essence of the beauty of Iowa. Wild flowers are in abundance at this peak time of year, July through August. On the trail we walked, there was an engaging children's storybook walk along the path with posted pages of beautifully illustrated and touching story of a sweet woman who cares for seeds throughout the year. We loved the story along with our walk despite not having children with us. What a clever idea it was. On the same trail, there are bagged and marked moth catepillars/chrysalis, each explaining the stages and the moths that will hopefully emerge. We have been to this heart lifting park many times and look forward to the next visit soon as it is a lovely place to tour...