When life gets a little too loud and busy, there's nothing quite like stepping into the peaceful embrace of nature. Here in the Villages of Van Buren, we are surrounded by rolling hills, winding rivers, shaded trails, and wildlife that remind us to slow down, take a deep breath, and truly be present. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a weekend wanderer, there are so many ways to reconnect with the natural world right here in Southeast Iowa.

Here are a few of my favorite spots to unplug, unwind, and connect with nature in the Villages of Van Buren County:

Lacey-Keosauqua State Park – A Natural Sanctuary

As one of Iowa’s oldest and most beloved state parks, Lacey-Keosauqua is a haven for nature lovers. Towering trees, quiet walking trails, and sweeping views of the Des Moines River make this an ideal place to hike, camp, birdwatch, or simply sit and listen to the rhythm of the forest. Each season brings its own beauty, from the soft greens of spring to the brilliant colors of autumn.

One of my favorite things to do here is pack a simple breakfast or snack, grab my current favorite read, and head to the beach house shelter overlooking Lake Lacey just after sunrise when the mist is rising over the water. The early light filters through the trees, and the lake below is still. In those quiet moments, with a warm cup of coffee and birdsong overhead, the rest of the world seems to fall away. I've often been joined by the silent company of an owl perched nearby, as if it's keeping watch over the peaceful scene. (Just want to note, sunset is pretty amazing, too!)
 

Shimek State Forest – A Quiet Escape

If you’re looking for deeper solitude, Shimek State Forest is one of Iowa’s best-kept secrets and offers a vast, untamed space to roam. With over 9,000 acres of forest, prairie, and trails, this natural gem near Farmington offers endless opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, mushroom hunting, and photography. It’s the kind of place where you can walk for miles and hear nothing but the crunch of leaves beneath your feet.

There is something grounding about wandering through the trails of Shimek, where towering trees arch overhead and the trail feels like it's leading  you into a forgotten world. I often find myself walking without a destination, just moving, breathing, noticing. It offers a quiet kind of freedom that's hard to find.

Bentonsport Riverfront – Nature & Nostalgia

The Bentonsport Historic District isn't just rich with history—it's also rich in natural beauty. The Des Moines River runs calmly past the village, offering peaceful spots to sit, reflect, or fish. The Bentonsport Nature Trail, just a short walk from the riverfront, meanders through quiet, shaded woodlands and open prairie grasses with scenic overlooks along the way that invite you to pause and take it all in.

This is my favorite place to completely unplug. I don't get cell service down here, and honestly, that's part of what makes it so special. Walking along the trail or sitting by the river without the buzz of notifications gives me a rare and welcome sense of stillness. It's a little pocket of peace tucked into one of our most historic villages. 

Just don’t forget to visit the local artisan shops afterward—it’s the perfect blend of nature and culture.

Indian Lake Park – Where Still Waters Run Deep

Tucked away near Farmington, Indian Lake Park offers a serene 44-acre lake surrounded by wooded trails, picnic areas, and a tranquil campground. It's one of the best places for an early morning paddle, an afternoon nature walk, or a sunset with friends and family. The calm, restorative setting invites you to slow down and truly take in the beauty of your surroundings. 

Kayaking on this still, glassy lake is one of my favorite ways to connect with nature. I could float for hours, just listening to the gentle splash of my paddle and the distant calls of birds, frogs, and other wildlife. It's an experience that always recenters me.

Fun Fact: Indian Lake Park is also home to Iowa’s tallest standing Totem Pole! It’s a unique and unexpected piece of art and culture that adds a touch of wonder to an already memorable place.

 

The Des Moines River – A Lifelong Companion

Winding gently through the heart of the Villages of Van Buren County, the Des Moines River is more than just a landmark, it’s part of the lifeblood of the Villages. Its path cuts diagonally across the county, weaving together our communities and connecting past and present. For centuries, the river has shaped the land, carried stories, and provided both sustenance and joy to those who live along its banks.

Today, it continues to welcome those seeking adventure and connection. When the water runs high, you’ll often spot canoes and kayaks drifting along with the current, or anglers patiently casting for catfish in favorite fishing holes passed down through generations. In the quieter months, when the water is low and the banks are exposed, curious explorers wander the rocks in search of geodes, fossils, and remnants of the past—sometimes even unearthing Native American artifacts that whisper of lives lived long before ours.

I grew up along this stretch of river, you could say I’m a bit of a river rat. My childhood was full of memories made on these waters: floating under summer skies, skipping rocks with friends, fishing with my dad, and finding secret spots tucked along the shoreline.

Since my dad passed a few years ago, my time on the river has taken on a quieter, more reflective meaning. There’s something about the gentle current and the way the sunlight hits the water that brings me peace—and brings me back to him. Whether I’m paddling solo in my kayak, gathered around the fire with family and friends at our campsite, or simply watching the water from the riverbank, the river is where I feel most connected—to nature, to my roots, and to the people who have shaped my life.
 

Where Nature Meets Everyday Life

There’s something incredibly grounding about being in nature. Here in the Villages of Van Buren, you don’t have to go far to find that connection—it's in the whisper of the wind through the trees, the ripple of the river, and the rustle of wildlife just off the trail.

Whether you're seeking solitude, adventure, or a moment to breathe, our parks, forests, and natural areas offer the space to reconnect—not just with nature, but with yourself.

So, where do you go to connect with nature? We’d love to hear your favorite hidden gems or quiet places in the Villages. Share your stories and photos with us using #VillagesofVanBuren and help inspire others to get outside and explore!

🌿Come visit. Stay a while. Let nature welcome you home.🌿

Posted: May 15, 2025