Overview
Bear Creek is part of the Skunk River Greenbelt. The Skunk River Greenbelt features 620 acres with deer, furbearers, and small game. Some greenbelt properties are posted "No Hunting." Other areas are easements and not available for public hunting. Observe boundary signs. Trapping is allowed in the public hunting areas. No target shooting is allowed. Only non-toxic ammunition is allowed.
All state hunting laws apply. Hunters must possess the proper license(s). Please remember to get permission when hunting within 200 yards of any occupied building, even when hunting on public land. For a complete listing of all state hunting regulations, visit www. iowadnr.gov or contact the IDNR in Des Moines at 515-281-5918.
Pets must be on leashes at all times. Pets shall be deemed as running at large unless the owner carries such animal or leads it by a leash or chain not exceeding six feet in length, or keeps it confined in or attached to a vehicle. Hunting dogs are permitted in designated hunting areas for training, exercise, or hunting, but must be kept on leashes from March 15 to July 15 to protect nesting birds and must be kept under control at all times.
Location
The Skunk River Greenbelt includes the following areas:
- Anderson Canoe Access (56743 150th Street, Story City) - REFUGE
- Bear Creek (16415 Pleasant Valley Road, Story City)
- Crooked Bend (15997 Pleasant Valley Road, Story City)
- E-18 Greenbelt Access (56342 130th Street, Story City)
- Lekwa Access (56156 130th Street, Story City) - REFUGE
- Leopold Woods (55821 175th Street, Ames) - REFUGE
- Sheffield Wildlife Area (14665 570th Avenue, Ames)
- Sleepy Hollow (646 W. Riverside Road, Ames)
- Sopers Mill (56364 170th Street & 56501 170th Street, Ames)
Hours
Park hours are 5:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. daily.
Closed
This area is open year round.