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Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center - River Campus: Pueblo's Natural Oasis

Explore diverse habitats, observe wildlife, and connect with nature at Pueblo's premier environmental education center along the Arkansas River.

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The Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center's River Campus in Pueblo, Colorado, is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering diverse ecosystems, scenic trails, and a chance to connect with local wildlife along the Arkansas River. It features a raptor rehabilitation center and various educational programs.

A brief summary to Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center - River Campus

  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, to enjoy the trails before they get busy.
  • Bring binoculars for bird watching and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
  • Check the NWDC's event calendar for guided tours, educational programs, and Raptor Center tours.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the shaded picnic areas.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Pueblo, take a Pueblo Transit bus route that heads towards the Pueblo Nature Center. Check the local bus schedule for exact times. Request a stop at the nearest location to Nature Center Rd, then walk approximately 0.3 miles east along Nature Center Rd to the Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center - River Campus. A single fare for Pueblo Transit is typically around $1.25.

  • Walking

    If starting from downtown Pueblo, head east on W 1st St toward N Main St. Continue on W 1st St for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with N Elizabeth St. Turn left onto N Elizabeth St and walk north for about 0.4 miles. You will come to the intersection with E 4th St. Cross over to the other side and continue walking north for another 0.3 miles until you reach Nature Center Road. Turn right onto Nature Center Rd and follow it for about 0.5 miles. The Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center - River Campus will be on your left.

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Discover more about Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center - River Campus

Nestled along the banks of the Arkansas River, the Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center (NWDC) - River Campus serves as a natural escape within the city of Pueblo. This multi-campus nature preserve focuses on environmental awareness, wildlife rehabilitation, and community engagement. The River Campus features a diverse array of habitats, including aquatic, riparian, and semi-arid shortgrass prairie. Visitors can explore these ecosystems through a network of scenic trails suitable for hiking, walking, and biking. The trails offer opportunities to observe local wildlife, including various bird species and other native animals. The site is also part of the American Bicycle Trail System. In addition to its recreational offerings, the River Campus is home to Southern Colorado's only dedicated raptor rehabilitation center. The Raptor Center provides care for injured and orphaned birds of prey, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. Visitors can learn about these magnificent creatures and the important role they play in the ecosystem. The center offers public tours twice a month. The NWDC provides a variety of educational programs for all ages, including guided nature walks and summer nature camps. The River Campus also hosts events throughout the year, such as Eagle Days and Earth Day celebrations. The center's mission is to promote environmental stewardship and community health through nature education and outdoor recreation. Starting January 1, 2025, parking is free at the River Campus, furthering the NWDC's commitment to equitable access to nature experiences.

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