We have an extensive bird population here at Homestead and Hammer. If visiting for bird watching you can find a variety of birds including Baltimore Orioles, Hummingbirds, Red Breasted and White Breasted Nuthatches, Wrens, Tufted Titmouse, Cardinals, Blue Jays, Chicadees, Red and Golden House Finches, Downy/Harry and Red Headed Woodpeckers, Juncos, Crows, Bald Eagles, Red Tailed Hawks, Kestrels and many many more. If planning a trip to see the birds, message the host for what species you can expect during your time of stay.
We also overlook the Mississippi River so river life bird species can also be observed.
We also overlook the Mississippi River so river life bird species can also be observed.
Emerald Hummingbird
Black- Capped Chicadee
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European Starling
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Yellow House Finch
Blue Jay
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House Finch
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Hairy Woodpecker
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American Crow
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Winter Blue Jays
Female Northern Cardinal
Red Bellied Woodpecker
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Male Northern Cardinal
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Red Breasted Nuthatch
Dark-Eyed Junco
Downy Woodpecker
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Bald Eagle
White Breasted Nuthatch
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The Homestead is busting with mushroom diversity. You can find many species of fungi all throughout the year. Self-exploration will yield you plenty of specimens if you have the eye to find them!
Guided tours with local mushroom experts are hosted throughout the year. Check the Class Schedule button to see the next available class.
*Do NOT eat any mushrooms unless you are certain of identification. Homestead&Hammer is not responsible for improper foraging.
Guided tours with local mushroom experts are hosted throughout the year. Check the Class Schedule button to see the next available class.
*Do NOT eat any mushrooms unless you are certain of identification. Homestead&Hammer is not responsible for improper foraging.
LOCAL MUSHROOMS
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All mushrooms shown here were found near and around Bellevue, Iowa in Jackson County.
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HERE: Homestead & Hammer
We have almost 2 acres here on the homestead. Explore the gardens or take the walking paths through the woods. Be sure to stop by our own little "HobbitHole" @ the top of the property. Youll be rewarded with the best overlook views!. The deck is a perfect spot for a morning cup of coffee. Bellevue State Park
Want another local option? Bellevue State Park is a mere 2 miles from the property. This park features wonderfully kept walking paths, open views of wooded areas and a stunning cherry blossom tree in May! Don't want to walk? A simple drive to the top will get you to this breathtaking scenic overlook of the Bellevue Lock and Dam and the Mississippi River. Maquoketa Caves State Park
A top favorite: Maquoketa CSP features the 1,100-foot “Dancehall Cave” , Hernado’s Hideaway, Shinbone Cave and Wye Cave. About 13 caves can be found in the park, some of which can be explored by walking, while others are better suited for serious spelunkers who are used to crawling in tight spaces. Exhilarating boardwalks suspend the hiker over woodlands, fun river crossings, rocks, caves and wildlife galore! Dubuque Mines Of Spain State Park
Hike or bike through 15.1 miles of trails at Mines of Spain, offering views of towering limestone bluffs and scenic vistas. The American State Park Woodland Walk at the interpretive center explores the history of different trees, and the Horseshoe Bluff trail and the John and Alice Butler trail are ADA accessible. Nelson Dewey State Park- Wisconsin
The home and estate of Wisconsin's first governor, Nelson Dewey. Scenic overlook, Indian mounds, picnicking, camping, hiking. Pets are welcome. Cassville, Wisconsin Mississippi Palisades State Park - Illinois
Gorgeous winding and steep drives take you to incredible overlooking views of the Mississippi River and Iowa. The 2,500-acre State Park is rich in American Indian history and is the perfect place for a day-trip or weekend getaway. We've been able to watch a rambling train come through on several of our visits. Savannah, Illinois |