Here are some examples of programs available to your school, scout group, or other organization! Custom programs may also be available.

To schedule a program or for additional information, contact the Corps of Engineers at (641) 828-7522 or (641) 628-8690 or by emailing us at LakeRedRock@usace.army.mil. 

Dam Tours

Are you curious about the history of the Red Rock Dam and how it works?  Join a ranger for a dam tour!  See the many different levels of the structure and learn the interesting story on why the dam was built.

Water Safety

Be safe on the water year-round!  Students and participants of all ages learn the importance of wearing life jackets through hands-on activities such as the "Life Jacket Relay" and "Sink Fast."  The activity can be presented in either a classroom, outdoor or pool setting.

Wildlife at Lake Red Rock

Learn about the many different animals that call the Lake Red Rock area their home! Students identify furs of area mammals and discuss their various adaptations used for survival.  The children may also have the opportunity to meet a live black rat snake! 

Wildflower Walk (mid-April/early May)

Take a hike in search of the spring jewels of the woodlands!  Join a park ranger for a leisurely walk along a nature trail and learn to identify the many species of spring wildflowers along the way. 

Wetland Exploration

Go "mucking" at one of Lake Red Rock's ponds to learn about the diversity of wetland communities.  Students will work in teams with dip nets and identification guides to help them discover the plants and animals living in near the pond.

Shoreline Walk

Do you like to go exploring?  Take a walk in search of unique rocks that surround Lake Red Rock, and discover how ancient seas, glaciers, the Des Moines River and Lake Red Rock have influenced their formation.

Let's Go Birding!

Take a journey along a campground trail on a quest for Red Rock's winged wonders!  Enjoy spotting birds and learn some of the basics of identifying them in the field by sight and sound.

Beginning Orienteering

Students learn the basics of how to use a compass and practice setting and following "bearings" during a hands-on activity.

"Build An Eagle"

Lake Red Rock is known for the large numbers of bald eagles that spend their winters feeding and roosting below the dam and surrounding area.  After watching a 15 minute eagle DVD (partially filmed in the Red Rock area), students transform a classmate or teacher into an eagle while learning about the birds' special adaptations.  This comical activity is a fun way to discuss the importance of our nation's symbol!

Experience the "Enviroscape"

Using a special model called the "Enviroscape," students learn about what watersheds are and how they work, how erosion effects lakes and rivers, and how chemicals and toxins can affect water quality.  Participants then work together to find solutions to improve and protect watersheds, such as creating terraces, utilizing grass strips, planting trees, using less fertilizer and pesticides, etc.