Best Nature Centers for Dallas-Fort Worth Kids

The Heard has indoor exhibits on the Texas natural environment, plus miles of nature trails that wind though the diverse habitats of the 289-acre wildlife sanctuary. Don't miss the Animal Encounters Trail, home to non-releasable animal ambassadors like lemurs and bobcats.

Located on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens has beautiful views as you stroll through flowers, trees, gardens and art installations. The fabulous Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden (open seasonally) has many activities to help children explore and experience nature.

Lisa R:  Informative signs help visitors to this 200-acre park appreciate and identify key species that inhabit the three distinct eco-regions here: Blackland Prairie, Upland Forest, and Riparian Forest. Stroller accessible paved paths crisscross each region and take walkers and hikers up mild inclines and over stone bridges. A large playground is located close to bathrooms, picnic tables, and a small lookout tower. While organized programs here are few and far between, families can enjoy activities throughout the park.

Lisa R:  It's hard to believe that the largest urban hardwood forest in the US is just 10 minutes south of downtown Dallas. This 6,000 acre preserve is home to wildlife that you can learn about at the LEED certified nature center that houses a native bull frog, fish, lizards, snakes, and turtles. The center also has interactive learning activities, festivals, outdoor adventures, and guides for self-paced hikes. Five miles of trails through wetland, forest and prairie include wheelchair (and stroller) accessible stretches.

Lisa R:  This 7.5 acre organic botanic garden in Fair Park is open year round and regularly hosts festivals and educational programs for children and adults. In addition to exploring a variety of themed gardens, families can get an up close view of a variety of snakes and insects in the Butterfly House and Snakes of Texas exhibits. Check the events page to learn about daily animal encounters and classes for toddlers and kids included with regular admission.

Lisa R:  Once an urban wasteland this five acre park is now a stunning natural area full of native wildflowers, trails, and nature education programs. Kids and adults of all ages are encouraged to join the dedicated team of volunteers that work to maintain this restored prairie. The preserve is dedicated to building a new generation of nature lovers and particularly focuses on outreach to students at surrounding schools.

Lisa R:  Just 20 min. south of Dallas, this 600 acre preserve is a great place to glimpse native mammals, birds, insects and reptiles along 9 miles of trails kept clean by a set of dedicated volunteers. The one mile trail to Cattail Pond is dotted with benches while the observation tower 0.5 miles out is fun to climb and provides stunning views. No wheeled traffic is allowed, so slow walkers can wander in peace.

This is a truly natural spot without water or trashcans along the trails, so plan ahead.

Lisa R:  Native species from east and west Texas converge in this nature preserve 16 miles south of downtown Dallas, making it one of the best places in Texas to check out regional wildlife. The center hosts over 7,000 students each year and offers a range of educational programs, from guided hikes to kayaking excursion. The easiest trail is stroller-friendly and just 0.5 miles long. Kids love the shaded nature play area and having a snack on benches along the trail.

Lisa R:  This 3,621 acre wildlife sanctuary and nature preserve boasts 20 miles of trails that cover a variety of native habitats. The Hardwicke Interpretive Center is open year round is a great place to learn about the local flora and fauna, including the wild bison herd that roams the park. The park regularly hosts guided hikes, canoe trips, and one of a kind nature activities for kids. Check the Events page to learn more!