Douglas-Hart Nature Center

Stopped in on a road trip and they were the perfect little trails for a break. Was happy to see all the shorter distanced ones for people who can't take long walks. The shortest was 1/10th of a mile and several more under a mile. They even had walking sticks to borrow which was a nice touchm

First time to the nature center and wow can't wait to return. All kinds of activities. Library drop a book take a book, zip line , playground for kids, and two ponds you can feed the fish. Of your an outdoor lover you really should walk these trails.

Nice quiet little place. Lots of benches to sit down at on sides of multiple trials. The pond is filled with lots of turtles. Free food for the turtles and fish is occasionally by office front door.Walking sticks available most of the time.

Wonderful place to walk and spend time on the 1 mile trail. Loads of things to see and go for children too!

I hadn’t visited Douglas-Hart Nature Center in years but I was pleasantly surprised to see all the new updates! The trails are kept immaculate. It was a great morning last Saturday to take my dog for a walk on the trails.

Beautiful! Very well-maintained trail through woods and prairie that is exemplary in it's smaller space. Travelling between the different areas gives you the experience of a much longer hike in a short stroll. The variety of fauna was also surprising. Everything from hummingbirds to pheasants to dragonflies.

The turtles are out in full effect most turtles I've seen in one spot in my life the trails are clean and the parks are well maintained

Absolutely love these short trails and the fun little activities hidden throughout. The kids were so excited to find the Zipline and the small play ground! We go a few times a week to feed the turtles and explore!

Beautiful nature center! Great easy flat trails. Trail is just over a mile long. Just walk it multiple times to get more exercise.

Nice trails and a place to learn about nature. Animals in the building to view up close. You can feed the turtles at the pond and they love to come up and visit you!

I hadn't visited Douglas Hart for many years. I was very impressed with everything they had done. The trails are beautiful. There is a small playground and an outdoor learning center for all of their wonderful summer programs and their regular activities and education programs they have throughout the year. Oh, did I mention they not only have regular and wonderfully planned programs for kids and teens, they have such programs for adults, too! The welcome center is beautiful and obtains a wealth of knowledge. I think I may have been most impressed with the "bog" area. They had installed a beautiful and well-kept, carnivore plant garden. Which contained Picture plants, Venus Fly Traps, Sundews, and I believe Butterwart. They also have a very nice observatory, which looks out over both ponds and has a viewfinder. My husband and I were so impressed. We have been discussing volunteering there!
The photo I attached is of the carnivore garden!

Douglas Hart is an ideal introductory nature center. During my younger days, my school brought me here for a field trip. Over the years, I returned several times, contributing by planting seeds for the nature center and receiving a positive experience in return. It also offers an educational walk with labeled signs for trees and plants, providing examples of the surrounding nature. Whether you desire a romantic walk, a leisurely stroll with your dog, or some peaceful alone time, this place is perfect. I have witnessed various animals here, and their small, charming pond is home to turtles and fish. Unlike other nature centers, it doesn't require an extensive walk, approximately 15 minutes, and it's easy to navigate, unlike some I've visited. It's an excellent location for children or anyone seeking a leisurely nature walk.

Absolutely love this place! First time visiting, and for the size of this place, there’s so much to see! Loved the Zipline, and all the cool informal signage across the preserve. Would visit again!

Wonderful place for a hike at your own pace. The kids love the pond, mini zip-line and play area!

One of my most favorite places to visit and volunteer!

Such a great way to spend the day with the family! Just make sure you bring your bug spray!

Douglas Hart is a GEM. Whether you're a local looking for a nice place to spend an afternoon or passing thru on the interstate and needing somewhere to stretch your legs, there is always so much to see. The staff and volunteers work year round to make the grounds welcoming and beautiful, even going so far as to mark roots in the path that might be a trip hazard. The paths are a great place to get a nice long walk in with pets, as well. If you're there in the day time, be sure to stop by the visitor center and see the indoor exhibits and animals. They also have activities for the whole family year round for members and the public.

Great place to take the kiddos. The trails were short enough for them, with kid centered areas. They enjoyed it!

Love coming to this place to relax and watch the sunset! Best wind down in town.

We always have a such a fun and relaxing time. We moved to NC about 10 years ago, we still try and make a stop by the nature center every time we are in town.