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Ozark Rivers Audubon Nature Center: A Natural Oasis

Explore diverse Ozark habitats at this free nature center with trails, birdwatching, and community education programs in Rolla, Missouri.

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The Ozark Rivers Audubon Nature Center in Rolla, Missouri, is a 70-acre nature preserve dedicated to community education and habitat preservation. With over 5 miles of trails traversing diverse ecosystems, it's a haven for nature lovers, bird watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Ozark Rivers Audubon - Nature Center

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, as the center is home to a wide variety of bird species.
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes to fully enjoy the extensive trail system.
  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Rolla Public Library at 900 N Elm St, head south on N Elm St. Continue straight for about 0.5 miles until E 10th St. Turn left onto E 10th St and walk for about 0.2 miles to N Bishop Ave. Cross N Bishop Ave and continue on E 10th St until S Rolla St. Turn right onto S Rolla St and walk for 0.3 miles. Turn right onto Meriweather Ct; the Nature Center is at 550 Meriweather Ct. There are no fees for accessing the nature center.

  • Driving

    From I-44, take the University Drive exit and head north to White Columns Drive. Turn right onto Meriwether Drive and proceed to the end of the road. The Nature Center is located at 550 Meriweather Court. Parking is free. The nature center is open from dawn to dusk.

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Discover more about Ozark Rivers Audubon - Nature Center

Nestled within the city limits of Rolla, Missouri, the Ozark Rivers Audubon Nature Center offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Ozarks. This 70-acre reserve, stewarded by the Ozark Rivers Audubon Chapter, is dedicated to community education and the preservation of diverse habitats. The nature center boasts over 5 miles of trails that wind through five distinct ecosystems: a remnant prairie, a riparian zone, open woodlands, a savanna, and a pine forest with a dolomite glade. These trails offer visitors a chance to experience the unique flora and fauna of each environment. A handicap-accessible concrete trail provides easy access for all visitors. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot some of the over 400 species of birds that live in or migrate through Missouri. The center's diverse habitats provide ample opportunities to observe a variety of bird species and other wildlife in their natural environment. In recent years, efforts to control invasive species and maintain the prairie have led to an increase in grassland bird species. The Ozark Rivers Audubon Chapter formed a planning committee in the early 2000s to develop a strategic plan for the nature center. Volunteers worked to clean up the property, remove debris, and establish the first trails. Since then, the center has continued to expand its trails, add interpretive signage, and enhance its facilities, including the addition of a pavilion in 2022. The nature center is open to the public from dawn to dusk every day and admission is free. Visitors are asked to follow posted rules, including keeping dogs leashed, cleaning up after pets, and refraining from smoking on the property.

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