Discover Pocahontas County: Nature, History, and Local Culture

The Three Rivers Trail runs nearly 40 miles from Rolfe to just west of Eagle Grove. It is mostly rural and flat, with little or no elevation change. Its length and terrain profile give you two concrete points to consider when deciding what kind of route might fit into your stay.

Hiking and Wildlife Watching

Across from Cooper’s Cove is Whitetail Ridge. You can hike along Lizard Creek and, with some luck, spot bald eagles, turkeys, hawks, or woodpeckers. Unlike the Three Rivers Trail, this is about both hiking and the possibility of wildlife watching; sightings are not guaranteed.

History and Collections

The Pocahontas County Historical Society Museum offers free tours with knowledgeable volunteer guides. Confirm the date and availability before your visit. Rotating exhibits focus on local history. There are also printed materials on the county’s history and access to an online archive of historical photographs.

The Widlund Museum offers a different focus: the family-run exhibit features Allis-Chalmers tractors and memorabilia. The range thus extends from rotating exhibits and historical photographs to a collection focused on a particular tractor brand and related memorabilia.

Public Art

Princess Park features a Pocahontas statue, a tipi, and murals. A historic cabin contains stories and artifacts from Pocahontas County. The Pocahontas County Freedom Rock presents a different image: on the side facing the road, a bald eagle clutches the American flag in its talons.

At “Paintings in Oil,” Jerry’s shop displays a wide variety of items painted by Jerry. Call ahead to arrange an appointment for your visit. That way, you can plan a visit to this art offering rather than assuming walk-in access.

“Pocahontas Kaleidoscope” comprises 11 kaleidoscopes and is well suited to a day trip with family and friends. They vary in color and in their individual interior designs, which represent the history of each community. The project was expanded in 2025; check the current status of the installations before your visit.

Events Throughout the Year

The Pocahontas County Fair takes place annually. Families, members of the agricultural community, and local businesses come together to celebrate young people in 4-H and FFA. The Laurens Summer Celebration takes place every year on the second weekend in July. Check the dates for the relevant year before planning your trip around them.

The Fonda Arts Center offers arts programs and entertainment on the second Sunday of every month; the program also includes wine tastings. So, alongside annual events, there are recurring monthly programs to choose from. Their different schedules may be helpful when planning your trip for a particular time.

Film and Stories from Laurens

The Rialto Theatre shows films and occasional special screenings. Check the schedule before your visit. Laurens was home to Alvin Straight. The film “The Straight Story” draws on his 240-mile journey on a riding lawn mower and was partly filmed in Laurens.

Discover more destinations: Laurens, Hamilton County, Iowa County, Linn, Johnson, Osceola County, Guthrie, Woodbury.

See the main travel overview: Iowa.