Recreation

In Hawarden, we take our fun seriously!  Oak Grove State Park provides nearly 400 acres of hiking trails through dense timber, picnicking in the rolling hills or near the river, camping, and canoeing and fishing in the Big Sioux River.  Recreation through the City’s Activity Department provides after-school, weekend, and summertime entertainment for Hawarden’s youth and adults.  Baseball and softball leagues, sand volleyball, bowling leagues and a wide variety of field trips to zoos, amusement parks, movies, and sporting events keep Hawarden residents of all ages busy year round.  The City’s challenging nine-hole golf course, swimming pool, and new playground equipment, as well as the many athletic and musical events provided by West Sioux Schools and other community organizations, add to the entertainment.

In 2005, the community christened its new Community Center and City Offices building.  Located in a rehabilitated middle school building, the facility has become known for its elegant and functional settings for everything from wedding receptions to regional conventions to corporate dinners and meetings.  Word is quickly spreading that the Hawarden Community Center rivals most event facilities in the region. 

The Hawarden Area Partnership for Progress (HAPP) works hard to produce events for all ages throughout the year including Festival of Trees, Polar Express train rides, Wine and Cheese Tastings, Living Windows Christmas Displays, and numerous retail sales and promotions.  Big Sioux River Days, held every Labor Day weekend, features fireworks, a parade, flea market, car show, soap box derby, train rides, demolition derby, and a variety of other events for the entire family.