This Texas Nature Sanctuary Makes For The Perfect Family Day Trip
By Katie Lawrence|Published June 21, 2024
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
I’m a huge nature lover, so I’m always looking for new places to enjoy the great outdoors. One of my recent favorites is the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge because it’s not only absolutely beautiful, but also ridiculously underrated. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enter a peaceful world of meandering trails, lush greenery, and native wildlife when you visit one of the best nature centers in Texas.
You'll hardly believe you're in Fort Worth when you visit this pristine oasis. The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge was established in 1964 and is among the largest city-owned nature centers in the country.
Covering over 3,600 acres of land, the center features forests, prairies, and wetlands that give visitors a glimpse into what the now-bustling Metroplex looked like before urban development really took off. The center also protects the local watershed.
Guests can embark on over 20 miles of trails that showcase the various landscapes that exist within the center. Trails range in length from .16 to 3.37 miles, and two are wheelchair-accessible.
The Marsh Boardwalk is one of the accessible trails, and it's also my favorite! The short, paved walkway meanders through beautiful wetlands and leads to a stunning overlook point. Keep an eye out for birds, as you'll see all sorts of different species here.
Other points of interest include Prairie Dog Town (another personal favorite of mine), a fossil shell outcrop, and even a bison range! Calves are born every year during spring and early summer.
The whole family will love a trip here - especially because there's a Visitor Center with exhibits as well as fun activities year-round. If your family likes to kayak, you can also hop on the TPWD Paddling Trail for a relaxing journey along the West Fork of the Trinity River.
All seasons are stunning here (hello, spring wildflowers!), but I would definitely recommend visiting in the fall if you're able. Just look at those colors!
So if you need a little escape from the rigors of everyday life but can't squeeze in a full-blown vacation, the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is where it's at. I promise you'll feel so rejuvenated after coming here.
Have you ever visited the Fort Worth Nature Center? If so, do you think it’s one of the best nature centers in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Check out our previous article for a nearby water garden where you can keep the peaceful vibes flowing. If you’re in need of some comfortable walking shoes or clothing, REI has some of the best options out there.
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