It’s no secret that Kansas is home to unique prairies, wetlands, and wildlife… but getting to see these beautiful places and animals up close can prove to be a bit of a challenge. Have no fear; the Prairie Park Nature Center in Lawrence is here to bring you all of these special communities in one 100-acre preserve.
Opened in 1999 as an 80-acre preserve, the Prairie Park Nature Center has continued to grow and evolve over the last 17 years, living up to its mission to "promote an appreciation of the importance of conserving the natural world through hands-on environmental and conservation education."
Today the center is home to a number of different native wildlife species, including birds (eagles, owls, and more), bobcats, deer, and even beavers. These aren't the only animals you'll see both inside the center and roaming the grounds...
...as Prairie Park is also home to the 5-acre Mary's Lake, which is stocked full of different breeds of fish by the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks.
Want to learn even more about these native creatures? You're in luck, as special camps, exhibits, and classes are constantly being held on the premises.