Plains Conservation Center: A Prairie Oasis
Explore Colorado's prairie past and present at this Aurora nature preserve and educational center with replicated villages and wildlife viewing.
Discover the Plains Conservation Center in Aurora, Colorado, a sprawling 1,100-acre nature preserve and educational center. Explore replicated homestead and Native American tipi camps, hike scenic trails, and encounter local wildlife while learning about the prairie ecosystem and Colorado's rich cultural history.
A brief summary to Plains Conservation Center (Visitor Center)
- 21901 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, Colorado, 80013, US
- +1303-326-8380
- Visit website
- Wednesday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best opportunities to view wildlife.
- Check the event calendar for special workshops, guided tours, and seasonal events.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to fully enjoy the trails.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
- Entry is free to hike the trails, explore the visitor center, and see the tipis and homestead village.
Getting There
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 21901 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80013. From I-70, take exit 286 for I-225 S toward Aurora. After about 6 miles, take exit 5A to merge onto Hampden Ave. Continue on Hampden Ave for about 3 miles. The Plains Conservation Center will be on your left. Free parking is available on-site.
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Public Transport
To reach the Plains Conservation Center via public transportation, take an RTD (Regional Transportation District) bus to the Aurora Metro Center. From there, transfer to the Route 153 bus, which goes directly to E Hampden Ave. Get off at the stop nearest to 21901 E Hampden Ave. A single fare for RTD buses is $2.75.
Discover more about Plains Conservation Center (Visitor Center)
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