As attractions and events continue to close in Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County due to health concerns associated with the COVID-10 outbreaks, the city and county parks are open and a great option for getting out of the house while still practicing social distancing.
Pottawattamie County Conservation is keeping Botna Bend Park, Arrowhead Park, and Hitchcock Nature Center open to the public for the foreseeable future. They have canceled their public programming and have closed the Loess Hills Lodge Exhibit Gallery and welcome desk for the rest of March.
Outdoor recreation has many mental, physical, and emotional benefits. During these difficult times of being stuck at home, going out into nature and getting some fresh air is a great way to combat stress and anxiety. The parks are also a great way to get outside without having to come into close contact with any of the other visitors. There are so many great things to do out at the parks during this time. Go for a hike, run, bird watch, practice your photography skills, read a book, or enjoy a picnic.
Ultimately, it is a personal choice to decide whether you feel safe venturing out at all during these times. If you don’t feel safe going to a public park, consider spending some time in your own yard. There are so many fun activities to do outside with children or by yourself. Read a book, watch the birds, go on a bike ride, or build a fort. Any of these ideas are sure to take some stress off.
