Tree Hill Nature Center

Tree Hill Nature Center is a wonderful place to explore nature in the Jacksonville area. Located at the base of the picturesque Timucuan Preserve, it boasts a variety of natural wonders for visitors to enjoy.

Tree Hill Nature Center covers over 46 acres of pristine cypress wetlands, open forests, and meadows. It was designed by the late conservationist Marjorie Harris Carr and is dedicated to preserving Florida's natural environment. The Nature Center offers a variety of activities for all ages.

Guided Tours

Guided tours of Tree Hill Nature Center are offered throughout the year, providing visitors with an in-depth look at the preserve's unique ecosystem and its diverse wildlife. These include:

  • Birdwatching. This allows visitors to glimpse various species, including the endangered Red-Cockaded Woodpecker.
  • Wildlife tracking. Guides take visitors along the nature center's trails and help identify animal tracks, scat, and other signs of wildlife activity.
  • Wildflower walks. Visitors who wish to explore the preserve's various wildflowers and other plant life are welcome to join a guided tour.

In addition to these guided tours, Tree Hill Nature Center offers special events for patrons to explore at their own pace. Special events can range from seasonal nature walks, where visitors can learn about the preserve's unique plants and animals, to stargazing nights, which showcase the beauty of our night sky.

Educational Programs

Tree Hill Nature Center offers educational programs for children, adults, and families. These are all designed to foster respect for the environment while still having plenty of fun. In addition to weekly classes in botany or zoology, there are special hands-on activities for kids, like pond dipping or nature scavenger hunts.

With a focus on sustainability and appreciation of the outdoors, the center ensures its visitors are comfortable in their surroundings while learning the importance of conserving their natural world.

One of the most exciting programs is the "Bats of Tree Hill," which allows participants to observe these mysterious creatures in their natural environment.

Wildlife Viewing

Tree Hill Nature Center is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, insects, mammals, and more. The preserve offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, with several observation decks scattered throughout its grounds. Visitors can also join guided walks or rent binoculars from the center's gift shop to ensure they don't miss out on animal encounters during their visit.

The Tree Hill Nature Center is a wonderful place to explore nature and learn about the importance of protecting the environment. With its diverse array of activities, educational programs, and wildlife viewing opportunities, it's a destination that all visitors—from novice nature enthusiasts to experienced conservationists—should experience at least once.

Tree Hill Nature Center is open year-round from 9 am to 5 pm every Tuesday through Sunday. Admission prices vary depending on the activity or special event being enjoyed. Check out their website for more information!