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Admission is $7 for Ages 16 and over. Under 16 is free.
Open daily from 10a-5p April thru October; March & November Wed-Sun.; Closed December thru Februrary.
The Woodlands Nature Station introduces visitors to the animals and habitats found throughout Land Between the Lakes. Located between Honker Lake and Hematite Lake, the facility includes indoor exhibits, native-plant gardens, wildlife enclosures, ponds, and daily programs led by naturalists. Many of the resident animals cannot be returned to the wild, giving visitors a closer look at species that are often difficult to observe elsewhere in the recreation area.
A naturalist demonstrates a barn owl at the Nature Station.
A visit usually begins inside the nature center before continuing into the outdoor backyard area. The grounds contain habitats and enclosures for native wildlife that may include red wolves, bobcats, bald eagles, hawks, owls, vultures, deer, wild turkeys, turtles, snakes, and other reptiles and amphibians. Animal visibility can vary, especially during hot weather or periods when an animal chooses to remain inside its shelter.
Scheduled programs are a major part of the experience. Naturalists lead animal encounters, feeding programs, short talks, guided walks, and seasonal events throughout the operating season. A daily schedule may include close-up reptile programs, raptor presentations, bobcat feeding, or activities centered on the endangered red wolves. The program lineup changes by date, so checking the current LBL calendar before arriving is worthwhile.
The gardens and ponds around the facility also attract wild birds, butterflies, hummingbirds, frogs, and insects. Nearby trails and paddling areas extend the visit into the surrounding Woodlands Nature Watch Area, a 6,800-acre landscape of forest, wetlands, beaver marshes, and lake shoreline.
The Nature Station operates seasonally and charges admission. Hours, rates, programs, and special events should be confirmed through the official Land Between the Lakes website before traveling.
Resident animals may include red wolves, bobcats, deer, bald eagles, hawks, owls, vultures, wild turkeys, turtles, snakes, and other species native to the region. The exact animals visible during a visit can vary with weather, animal care, and enclosure conditions.
Most visitors should allow at least one to two hours. Additional time may be useful when several scheduled programs are taking place or when combining the Nature Station with a nearby trail, wildlife-viewing stop, or paddle on Honker or Hematite Lake.
Yes. Naturalists offer programs throughout the operating season, including feeding demonstrations, raptor presentations, reptile encounters, guided walks, and programs about red wolves, bobcats, and other wildlife. The schedule changes regularly, so review the LBL calendar for the date of your visit.
No. The Nature Station is a seasonal facility, although Land Between the Lakes itself remains open throughout the year. Confirm current dates, hours, and admission before making the drive.
Yes. The surrounding Woodlands Nature Watch Area includes trails, wetlands, interior lakes, and wildlife-viewing locations. The Nature Station sits between Honker and Hematite lakes, making it a practical starting point for nearby hiking, birding, and paddling.
