Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge image

Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge

Tourist attraction Nature preserve

3,621-acre preserve with 20 miles of hiking trails, plus bison, gators, deer & myriad birds. People often mention trails, nature, hiking, great, deer, trail, bison, area, animals, Worth,


Address

9601 Fossil Ridge Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76135, United States

Website

fwnaturecenter.org

Contact

+1 817-392-7410

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (1.6K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Friday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Saturday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Sunday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Monday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Tuesday: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Wednesday: 8 am to 5 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: trails (19) nature (13) hiking (11) great (11) deer (10) trail (9) bison (9) area (9) animals (8) Worth (8)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Melissa V. 2 years ago on Google
    This park is beautifully maintained, very quiet, and has a trail for everyone. Even on busy days I don’t feel the crowd, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while hiking. The Bison are off display for the winter, but the deer and other wildlife are plentiful. I have visited many times recently, and will keep coming back. Best $6 (per adult) you’ll spend all season.
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeremy D. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful park with lots to do. Its maintained very well especially due too park admission fee's but its well worth the fee...
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Deanna R. 2 years ago on Google
    Always a great place to enjoy nature! The Marsh Boardwalk is one of my all time favorite trails but I have never been on any of the trails that disappointed me. Waterfront, wooded, rocky, steep, or flat and shaded, they've got trails for everyone and any skill level. And you never know what animals you'll catch a glimpse of. Today I saw a grass snake, an alligator, a turkey, a deer, and lots of different fish! $6 adult/ $1 dog
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kristina H. 9 months ago on Google • 324 reviews
    We had such a great morning hiking the trails! It was super humid though, I would recommend bringing a towel for your neck/handheld fan and lots of water. I really felt for the lady at the gate taking payment, she was very snippy but I could tell she was hot. I didn’t have extra water bottles or something to offer. Please just be kind to her, she’s got a rough job on these scorcher days. The visitors center is cooled, there are animals and exhibits inside. When we visited today, there were snakes, a scorpion, tarantula, toad, hawk, owl and a few other animals. My kiddos LOVED it! We ended up taking a hiking trail down to the paddle boat dock and saw a deer and bison when we were driving out! So interesting. We plan on coming back and exploring a different section of the trails :)
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Philip C. 1 year ago on Google
    As a frequent visitor to the Fort Worth Nature Center, I can confidently say that this gem of a location is an absolute must-visit for both locals and tourists alike. With its sprawling 3,621 acres of lush, diverse ecosystems, this nature preserve provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and a chance to truly connect with the natural world. One of the standout activities at the Fort Worth Nature Center is kayaking. Whether you are an experienced paddler or a beginner, the center offers a serene and calming experience on the water. As you glide through the water, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape, teeming with vibrant flora and fauna. The real excitement, however, lies in the potential to spot alligators in their natural habitat. While sightings are not guaranteed, the thrill of possibly encountering these majestic creatures adds a sense of adventure to the experience. In addition to kayaking, the Fort Worth Nature Center offers a variety of educational programs and guided hikes, perfect for families or those looking to learn more about the environment. With over 20 miles of hiking trails to choose from, you'll never run out of places to explore. The Fort Worth Nature Center has quickly become one of my favorite weekend destinations, and I cannot recommend it enough. Whether you're interested in kayaking, hiking, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature, this incredible oasis has something for everyone. Don't miss out on the opportunity to create lasting memories and experience the breathtaking wonders of the natural world right here in Fort Worth.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amanda R. 7 months ago on Google • 56 reviews
    A really nice natural area in the middle of a major metropolitan area. You really feel like you are out in the country! A great way to spend a morning with the family. The kids especially enjoyed the bison and the interpretive center animals; there are a ton of trails for all abilities too.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Julia K. 2 years ago on Google
    An absolute must in the area! Was in the area visiting friends and had time to myself. I'm a big hiker and outdoors person, and this is a little slice tucked on the side of the cities! What I will definitely suggest is any season, or probably month other that January (when I went). As others have shared, the bison were off viewing and the prairie dog range was barren. However the marsh was still beautiful with birds and deer, even quite a few large gulls-- the plus side of the winter that I enjoyed was the empty trails. Would be a fabulous paddle trail too.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeff S. 10 months ago on Google
    Great spot for some nature walks and hikes. Amazing views and nature to see. Bring a water bottle and comfortable shoes and you should enjoy it. The buffalo herd was an amazing sight as well.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aditya M. 2 months ago on Google • 240 reviews New
    There is a small island which is beautiful. No bison in winter though. Small museum with snakes and toads. Great for kayaking but no fishing. Too many hiking places. Not a lot of picnic area or restrooms.

  • 5/5 Leslie H. 1 year ago on Google
    Very nice nature views and awesome hiking trails. We did the Canyon Ridge trail and it was very pretty. We also saw some bison at the bison range, and there were so many beautiful butterflies roaming throughout the preserve. Definitely recommend coming here and hiking!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Fred S. 1 year ago on Google
    So much wildlife 🦌 deer, 🦬 Bison, rabbits, turtles 🐢 snakes 🐍, alligators 🐊... if it's in texas it could be here. My most favorite trail turtle trail long lovely views 🌅 of the river, very well shaded. The view of the pier I whis I had a chair 🪑 could have been there for hours. I'm new to the canoeing and kayaking🚣‍♂️ but the older couple 👩‍❤️‍👨 really motivates me can't wait to do it myself soon. A true nature experience for all. No fishing for safety reasons I'm sure. #texaswildoutdoors
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark F. 2 years ago on Google
    What a wonderful place. We saw deer as you see there were many of them we saw a flock of pelicans, lots of ducks, and there were plenty of squirrels. We went to the visitors center it was a little disappointed due to there was not much there. The change in colors was awesome. Lots of trails and there is no way you can walk them all. It does cost $6 per adult. So if you are looking for a good time on the weekend and want to relax and love nature go and check it out it's the best $6 you will spend.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 James T. 6 months ago on Google • 45 reviews
    Absolutely loved this park! The views are beautiful and the wildlife is pretty awesome too. The price was a little steep for what was on offer, but it's for a good cause.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jacob M. 10 months ago on Google
    I grew up in Fort Worth and the Nature Center has always been awesome. All of the renovations and conservation that they have done is great. the populations of their wild animals are increasing. sightings of deer and alligators are becoming more common. Birding hiking kayaking and biking are all great. The trails are beautiful and well maintained. My only negative opinion is The bathrooms could definitely use an upgrade
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tammy G. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderfully maintained park in the middle of the city. Definitely a gem that makes you feel miles away from civilization but in reality only a few miles. There are trails available for every level but because of the terrain that we explored I would not recommend strollers of any kind.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lynz S. 2 years ago on Google
    There's a baby buffalo!!! So cute. My daughter really enjoyed watching them for a bit. Love the nature walks!! My daughter reminded me to stop and enjoy not just fast pace walk for exercise
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Donny H. 5 months ago on Google • 97 reviews
    Really nice refuge and nature center. I didn't see any buffalo, but I saw plenty of deer and other wildlife. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Debbie S. 6 months ago on Google • 10 reviews
    Gorgeous reserve with a diversity of wildlife and many tranquil paths unique to the area. We saw alligators, armadillos and bison which was a real treat given we have travelled here from Australia. The staff are very friendly and helpful and they are doing a great job managing all the different ecosystems.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vinny C. 7 months ago on Google • 37 reviews
    Loved it A lot. Did a 4-Mile Hike with friends and it was great views and awesome trails definitely. Bison view was neat as well . Well worth the pay.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeanne n. 5 months ago on Google • 10 reviews
    Beautiful area for walking around, hiking, or just driving through. Nice little nature center for children with turtles, snakes and etc. The Buffalo were amazing.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ken K. 11 months ago on Google
    Friendly staff. Closes at 5:00 PM sharp. Amazing view of purebred plains Bison! Saw a painted bunting, and a white-eyed vireo. Lots of cardinals. Lots more to explore! Prairie dogs got wiped out by disease, so staff are waiting to reintroduce a new colony.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 sara f. 5 months ago on Google • 4 reviews
    We had an amazing time! There are several trails with different views. Many resting points for food/water breaks. Staff was incredibly knowledgeable and we learned a lot about the bison at this location!

  • 5/5 Jaide F. 8 months ago on Google
    This place is a GREAT experience to learn and enjoy the outdoors. We have taken our children here since they were young. Now hubs and I take time to enjoy the many hiking trails available. We are soon looking forward to bringing the grands and sharing with the next generation. The cost is affordable as a day trip or you can purchase a membership. There is a learning center, trails, canoeing tours and the highlight .. Bison. It is such a peaceful place.

  • 5/5 Chris L. 8 months ago on Google
    Great place to visit. My wife and I went to check out the water for kayaking and ended up walking the nature trails. Worth the trip

  • 5/5 J S. 1 year ago on Google
    First time visiting, and I can’t believe I’ve been missing out this whole time! This refuge is so beautiful and peaceful, with so much wildlife to observe! Loved walking the various trails, and will most certainly be back to continue exploring!

  • 4/5 Kelley B. 1 year ago on Google
    Really great for walking but not a lot of wildlife out in February despite it being a warm, sunny day. We did catch a glimpse of 2 bison and a few deer but no prairie dogs sadly. We still had a great visit and will return.

  • 5/5 Kim B. 10 months ago on Google
    Such an awesome place with great trails to hike. You can get so close to the buffalo.

  • 5/5 Manasseh M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great Hike today on the Greer Island trail. It was a bit muddy due to the storm earlier in the week but it was nice sunshine weather. It is a $6 entrance fee and the line wasn’t to long of getting in.

  • 5/5 G 2 years ago on Google
    This park is so beautiful! I was so lucky to see many different animals, and includes a big gator. Recommend this park to everyone who loves nature and animals.

  • 5/5 America Terrazas- R. 1 year ago on Google
    Met the Flower Mound Hiking group here to hike 9 miles. Lots of cardio with steps uphill and downhill. Along the trail are benches for resting and neat shelters made in 1938 with historical information. It was a great place to hike.

  • 4/5 Danielle O. 6 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    We loved going to see the Bison from the really amazing viewing deck. We walked a trail and saw deer as well. Definitely a must see in the Lake Worth area. We were a bit less impressed with some of the small animal enclosures, like the injured birds didn’t have much enrichment in their cages and the small aquarium animals looked sad with no other animal to be with or nice environment. The alligator didn’t look like he could even turn around in his tank. And this cute turtle looked distressed and lonely in his tiny aquarium.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍


Call +1 817-392-7410 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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