LCC opens 58-acres near Heron Bend

LEE COUNTY - Lee County Conservation is excited to announce that a newly acquired 58-acre property at North Heron Bend is now officially open to the public, expanding recreational opportunities and enhancing wildlife habitat in the area.
This acquisition, approved earlier this year, adds 58 acres to the existing North Heron Bend Wildlife Area and creates a vital connection to the North Heron Bend Fishing Area. Together, these properties now form a larger, more unified conservation landscape for outdoor recreation and habitat preservation.
Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to explore the new addition. The expanded area is open to hunting, wildlife viewing, and hiking, offering diverse opportunities to experience the natural beauty of Lee County.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the public to this new space,” said Heather Huebner, Director of Lee County Conservation. “This property not only improves habitat connectivity but also provides more room for people to enjoy the outdoors—whether that’s hunting, hiking, or simply taking in the landscape.”
The newly opened land also establishes a thoughtful balance between recreation types. While the North Heron Bend Wildlife Area is open to hunting, the adjacent North Heron Bend Fishing Area will remain a no-hunting zone. An 18-acre buffer between the two areas helps ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for all visitors.

Visitors can access the new property from the North Heron Bend Wildlife Area parking lot located off 263rd Avenue.
Lee County Conservation extends sincere thanks to the many conservation partners and supporters whose generosity helped make this project—and its opening to the public—possible.
Lee County Conservation encourages hunters, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts to take advantage of this exciting addition and experience the expanded North Heron Bend area firsthand.
For more information about Lee County Conservation properties and programs, visit leecountyiowa.gov/conservation or follow Lee County Conservation on social media.
About Lee County Conservation: Lee County Conservation manages 29 individual parks, wildlife areas, historic sites and water recreation access points - encompassing some 2,692 acres across the county. The mission of the Lee County Conservation Board is to promote conservation of local natural resources and to provide parks and conservation areas, outdoor recreational opportunities, and environmental education for the public.
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