Wood Lake Nature Center image

Wood Lake Nature Center

Tourist attraction Park Museum Nature preserve

One of the Best Places To Visits in Richfield


Address

6710 Lake Shore Dr S, Richfield, MN 55423

Website

www.woodlakenaturecenter.org

Contact

(612) 861-9365

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (1.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 8:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday: 8:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 8:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 8:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 8:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 8:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: 12 to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: nature (27) walk (25) trails (21) Great (18) beautiful (16) center (14) wildlife (13) walking (12) area (12) park (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Beth P. 11 months ago on Google • 186 reviews
    This is always a perfect walk...lots of trails, water, trees...easy walking paths. Just gorgeous and never crowded. They also have a nature center for people to learn especially children. Easy parking. Went 4/27 for the sunrise...updated my photos.. still 10/10
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shane R. 8 months ago on Google • 212 reviews
    Such a neat place. Lots of birds on the lake amazing views and floating walkways. The ducks are tame and love just hanging out. So many different species of birds and turtles roaming around. Trails are well kept and beautiful walk around!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Peter G. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful nature area hidden in plain sight. This place is very easy to get to, just off of 35W. There are a few sections that border the highway, which is fine in the summer but likely becomes much more apparent in the winter when the tree lose their leaves. We attended a nice candlelight New Years Eve event that was well organized and pleasant. The only downside is that now our dog determines where we walk, and dogs are not allowed here.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sasha R. 1 year ago on Google
    This park is a real gem. A great place to enjoy nature. I saw several cool birds while there. The water has a ton of lily pads and so many native wildflowers.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Steven M. 9 months ago on Google
    When returning from an autumn adventure in south central Minnesota last year, I decided to stop at a place I hadn't been in over 20 years. Wood Lake Nature Center is just a stone's throw from downtown Richfield and I-35W, yet offers 150-acres of pristine cattail marshes, mixed lowland forest, and restored prairie with hiking trails and boardwalks. The perfect way to end a beautiful autumn day as the geese called out, telling me the weather was about to change.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 William B. 5 months ago on Google • 346 reviews
    Lovely lake with something very unique offerings- a boardwalk that traverses right over the center of the lake for gorgeous views, and a nature center with exhibits, outdoor seating, rentable spaces and more. This is not your run of the mill MN lake. They have put a lot of effort in to create something different than expectations. Definitely worth stopping by for a walk, run, picnic, or to check out the nature center.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Debra M. 6 months ago on Google • 110 reviews
    Wonderful place to walk sometimes there's beavers, deer ,foxes. In the city but it feels like you're in the woods. They have a lot of activities for kids which is wonderful. I love walking here and meeting wonderful people is lots of beautiful birds and great place to take beautiful pictures. They put a new bridge in across the water last year which is very nice and very safe. Beautiful place to go enjoy. It's great place to also go when it's very windy because the trees when the they are in bloom keeps the wind away. In the summer also very beautiful saw turtles ducks with their babies. Such a beautiful scenery. ☺️ great for the sunsets.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Robert I. 3 years ago on Google
    Wood Lake has over 2 miles of hiking / ski trails and is bisected by a floaty boardwalk. Walking under the tall trees and across the lake it’s easy to forget this 150 acre nature preserve is in a metropolitan area (the Twin Cities). I give it 4 stars instead of 5 only because a short stretch of the west side, along Interstate 35W, though well hidden by trees and a wall, is rather loud with car sounds. This is a minor quibble, however; the park is wonderful.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 gowtham Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Very nice trail , right in middle of Richfield. Lots of bird species. Easy trail good for beginners They also have a wooden bridge, which gives a nice view of the entire nature center The center was closed when we went so did not get a chance to go inside Overall a good hiking spot if you are in the area
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matt L. 1 year ago on Google • 72 reviews
    The interactive museum is really nice with lots of interesting exhibits. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. The walking trails are well maintained with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy nature. Be sure to wear good shoes, the longest trail is a pretty good hike. The picnic area has ample seating, good shade, and is well maintained.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Melissa G. 4 weeks ago on Google • 47 reviews New
    We came on an unusually warm day in February. It was 62° and beautiful. I remember coming here as a child with my mother and enjoying the cat tails. Seeing my children get excited over them too was a lot of fun. We really enjoyed walking across the bridge that spans the lake and circling around the park. There are several benches to stop and rest if you get tired. I loved seeing the big trees in the woods. There were many ducks and geese in the water. There are porter potties in the parking lot if you need a restroom. It was a fun walk down memory lane.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kirsten “Kiki” H. 7 months ago on Google
    Great place to walk, have a picnic, jog, and enjoy nature. Don't forget to stop into their museum!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Debbie N. 11 months ago on Google
    Wood Lake is such a hidden in the middle of the city. It is such a treat to walk on unpaved trails just a step away from it all. The nature center is lovely. There are a couple of miles of trails with a surprising amount of wildlife.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cedric S. 9 months ago on Google
    Love the quiet and relaxing atmosphere. Great lake to walk for the scenery, to read, draw, anything that takes you to a peaceful place, you'll find that here.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kyle W. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a Gem. It is quite easy to forget that you are in the city! A couple mile hike around the center. From urban forest to prairie to cattail marsh to lake..
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alissa B. 6 months ago on Google • 123 reviews
    Beautiful!! My dad used to bring us here when we were kids, forgot how beautiful this place is!

  • 5/5 Ahmet E A. 8 months ago on Google
    Serene and peaceful. It is my heavenly place!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jamie S. 1 year ago on Google
    One of my favorite places to walk to get a nature fix. Multiple habitats (woods, wetlands, and a bit of prairie), so many birds and turtles and frogs and wildflowers to see. Not overly secluded, but rarely crowded on the trails either.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Maggie L. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is amazing! I went once in the evening in May and saw a ton of fireflies!! It was almost magical. On my most recent trip this fall, I visited the Nature Play Area and thought it was quite cute. Great place for people of all ages.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Celeste H. 11 months ago on Google
    Great place for a kid's birthday party! Every party booking comes with an hour long naturalist led activity and an hour in the party room. The naturalist was very enthusiastic about his work and sharing his knowledge with the kids. We paid a little extra for use of the reusable dishes and grab bag for the kids. From a parent's point of view, it was like the birthday party just planned itself once it was booked, and the price was so reasonable, too. Unfortunately, the weather wasn't super great for the party so we only got to explore a limited amount of the outdoor area--can't wait to go back and explore some more!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tricia L. 3 years ago on Google
    Little piece of heaven right here in the burb. Great walking trails.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lori Leigh F. 7 months ago on Google
    I grew up in Richfield & Wood Lake Nature Center, which has always been a sanctuary for me. You can just listen to nature, look at all the beauty & recharge & energize yourself❣️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nancy G. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is amazing for quick 30 mins walk with kids (5yr,3yr old) without need of stroller. The most delightful thing was turtles , so many of them. Whenever i will get chance i will definitely visit again with family.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lee T. 1 month ago on Google • 89 reviews New
    Hidden gem right in the middle of the city. About 2 miles of walking trails with scenic views and wildlife everywhere you look. Fyi, no bikes or pets allowed.

  • 5/5 Rosemarie N. 4 months ago on Google • 44 reviews
    The Wood Lake Nature Center is a gem, peace and quiet and nature in the middle of a Metropolitan area. I am a dog lover and owner and am delighted it doesn't allow dig walkers (smile). It is a great get away from the busyness of life. Take a stroll in quiet. Plenty of free parking, too.

  • 5/5 Brian Sebastian Roberts S. 1 month ago on Google • 41 reviews New
    Was cool to experience with my service dog Hunter until the end when Aaron M the seasonal naturalist felt it to be his duty to over inform me that DOGS are not allowed which I clearly took notice to except for the many posted signs that service animals are excluded which was addressed at the time I arrived to the nature center, which by the way the 1 squirrel and 2 geese we saw didn't mind Hunter at all. Other than that we had a very enjoyable adventure getting to walk through the nature reserve and see all the narley twisted trees that succumbed to I would guess a heck of a wind storm and then the magnificent multiple huge mighty girthy specimens... definitely go check it out if your ever in the area

  • 5/5 Nonya B. 1 month ago on Google • 20 reviews New
    Probably my favorite spot next to Eloise Butler nature center to get a short nature hike in Minneapolis.

  • 5/5 Danielle 8 months ago on Google • 20 reviews
    This place is beautiful, there was a lot of wildlife to see here. There's a small park on the trail as well for children . It was also nice and quiet, my kids enjoyed going for a walk here. The floating bridge was cool, we saw a huge snapping turtle by their. There was also a building that you can go into with some live animals, books, games, Information, bathrooms, and water fountains to refill on the go.

  • 5/5 Johanna M. 2 years ago on Google
    Always a treat. So many little critters and birds to see. Tons of diverse plant life.. the long bridge/ dock over the water is an awesome way to cut through the park.

  • 5/5 Katy M. 3 years ago on Google
    Love this natural sanctuary in the city. Well maintained trails, a beautiful boardwalk, lots of wildlife, great naturalists... this is a gem!

  • 5/5 Mindy T. 3 years ago on Google
    Great walking paths!

  • 5/5 Carson D. 3 years ago on Google
    Great location for an outdoor walk.

  • 5/5 Ashley S. 1 month ago on Google • 7 reviews New
    Lovely hidden gem in the middle of the city!

  • 5/5 Case W. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a beautiful place! We were there around sunset and saw a wide variety of wildlife. We took a 1.5 loop around and over about half of the small lake with our four year old and we all had a blast!

  • 5/5 janet s. 2 years ago on Google
    Quiet nature walk. Got see up close ducks and geese w their babies ;beavers? In the stream.marsh had lots to see . Paths are well maintained with lots of shaded areas and benches. Easy walk. Found in community book library interesting donated books.

  • 5/5 Charles N. 3 years ago on Google
    Very beautiful park with ample parking. The trails are very well connected and loop into each other. It's a really good place for birding. You can either stay on the paved trail or veer off into the softer trails. during the visit today, parts of the trail were blocked off due to flooding. The lakes in the middle are marvelous with a lot of wildlife. There is also a nice kids play area as well with big branches for the kids to make forts.

  • 5/5 Serraya B. 1 year ago on Google
    I've been here a handful of times because I have catered some events in their conference/education room for the place that I'm employed at. I didn't get to walk the trails but from what I did see it's definitely a place I'd like to visit on my own time someday. The main building has lots of displays and educational information about local wildlife and the setting is beautiful. There's plenty of parking and every year on (or around) Easter they host a popular Easter egg hunt for kids.

  • 4/5 Farhan S. 4 months ago on Google
    Nice place to spend day for picnic, hiking and sightseeing.

  • 5/5 Preston H. 7 months ago on Google
    This is the kind of place that makes me feel good about where my tax dollars go. Good trails, very nice board walk, a mix of different biomes, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and very kid friendly. I definitely recommend coming here for a casual stroll through nature where you are guaranteed to see turtles, birds, insects, and others! No dogs, I'm a fan.

  • 5/5 Ian N. 1 year ago on Google
    As good as it can get in the middle of a busy city. Next to 35W somewhat noisy but the wildlife is everywhere. Many cranes and different birds.

  • 5/5 Sarah Bougie (. 1 year ago on Google
    Awesome place. Saw two turtles mating amongst a variety of other wildlife. Their floating wooden path was cool, too

  • 5/5 Marzella B. 1 year ago on Google
    An absolutely great experience. The hiking trail centered in the middle of beautiful trees and plants was amazing.

  • 5/5 Long D. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to get a little nature if y ou u live around the Richfield area. XC ski, hiking, snow shoe, natural play area and lots of chance to see turkey, deer, rabbits and the elusive fox. Birders also have a chance to see local species

  • 5/5 Mayra 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place

  • 5/5 Claire O. 3 years ago on Google
    Popular place.

  • 5/5 Pedro R. 3 years ago on Google
    A beautiful wildlife refuge in the middle of a residential area.

  • 5/5 Mike D. 3 years ago on Google
    You should have seen all the people walking around the park. A Very popular place!

  • 5/5 Allycia W. 3 years ago on Google
    An abundance of nice walking trails. Amazes me this is right in the metro.

  • 5/5 G B. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful urban nature preserve. You can almost pretend the constant highway noise is leaves rustling in the wind.

  • 5/5 Troy S. 3 years ago on Google
    Good place for snowshoeing and cross country skiing

  • 5/5 Allison C. 3 years ago on Google
    Cheap snowshoe rentals for the kiddos ($5/90 min). Got them active and they had fun doing it! Didn't know Woodlake could be so fun in the winter! Must reserve rentals ahead of time.

  • 5/5 Lee H. 3 years ago on Google
    Such a peaceful walk, not too slippery!

  • 5/5 Manju P. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and tranquil. Nice trails for walks.

  • 5/5 Adam A. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to walk.

  • 5/5 Jimmy two t. 3 years ago on Google
    Made out with my date here,a good spot to quick pull over and get some action.

  • 5/5 Jenny T. 3 years ago on Google
    Wood Lake Nature Center continues to be an amazing resource even during the pandemic. There is reliably enough room to social distance and let my two and a half year old actually scamper around, dig in the dirt, find rocks and sticks, and hang out with the wild turkeys. Plenty of path with shade on sunny days, sufficient parking, and lots of benches. It's been a LIFE SAVER since we haven't been able to go to playgrounds. So so so grateful!

  • 5/5 Rose Stephanie R. 3 years ago on Google
    I love this park. I find peace ✌️ and tranquility walking the paths daily. This park is amazing! While you're walking in the paths of this park it seems as if you are not even in the middle of a city. There is tremendous woodlife and wildlife. It's a wonderful place to de-stress.

  • 4/5 Charles P. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice hiking trails through the bog and around the lake. Visitor Center is closed due to Covid-19. Still an enjoyable walk.

  • 5/5 Speak U. 3 years ago on Google
    Well preserved lake and park. Wonderful walkways. Absolutely stunning.

  • 5/5 David G. 3 years ago on Google
    Unbelievable nature resource in the middle of a first ring suburb. Never disappoints. Walking trails from 0.8 miles to 1.7. Beautiful setting. Enjoy!

  • 4/5 Brian J. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice area overall for a hike or taking photos. However, at the time we visited some of the boardwalk docks were need serious maintenance. A few were disconnected from one another (meaning you had to leap over water/mud to get between sections) and at least one had loose railings that I wouldn't trust to hold any weight. Just be cautious as you hike around and you'll enjoy your visit.

  • 5/5 Em B. 3 years ago on Google
    This nature center has been a gem in the city for so long, since my childhood! Great for kids with their programming at the main building and lovely paths through the reserve! We always see so many animals and everyone is really respectful of the wildlife :) even if the center building is closed the paths are usually still open to walk freely.

  • 5/5 V M S. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and serene.

  • 5/5 Megan M. 3 years ago on Google
    We love coming here all year round! Great easy trails for all ages. The nature exploration area for kids is wonderful. We can spend hours here!

  • 4/5 Vince M. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to see turtles, toads and geese. Lovely boardwalk and variety; wetland, grassland, and lakes. A little bit of highway noise on the west side.

  • 5/5 Brock F. 3 years ago on Google
    I love the Turtles. This is a awsome place

  • 5/5 Antonio 1. 3 years ago on Google
    Inspired to run once again

  • 5/5 Saul N. 3 years ago on Google
    We love this place and the bridge is on. Love it

  • 5/5 Kevin K. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to walk and enjoy nature.

  • 5/5 Sean M. 3 years ago on Google
    Great outdoor trails and fun interactive nature center.

  • 4/5 C T. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to see some wonderful scenery. Expect to listen to the sounds of cars on the highway the whole time though.

  • 4/5 Stephanie G. 3 years ago on Google
    Serene

  • 5/5 Cl R. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful spot

  • 5/5 Kelsey N. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolutely beautiful nature center. We had our engagement photos there and loved it.

  • 4/5 Kevin D. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice place for a walk in the middle of town

  • 4/5 Chelsea K. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice walk. Short and long path options. Great views the entire time and plenty of wildlife to keep things interesting. We spotted what looked like goldfish in the water at one point (follow the path to the right when you enter from the parking lot), turns out they were goldfish that somehow got in there and are eating everything like an invasive species. Who knew?! Good way to get outdoors. Looks like there's a cross country skiing path for winter activities too!

  • 5/5 Rebecca F. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to watch the sunset!

  • 5/5 Derrian M. 3 years ago on Google
    Been goin to this park since high school. Great place

  • 4/5 Mark J. 3 years ago on Google
    Xc skiing fun here

  • 5/5 Kate B. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely walking trails and kid friendly features! One down side is the crazy busy and narrow parking lot.

  • 4/5 Devon L. 3 years ago on Google
    Come here for respite, fresh air and the usual marsh suspects - and even some rarities. In fact, there's usually at least one new, unique and interesting thing here every time i come here. There was an 8-point buck last time. This is only 5 blocks from the last metro mountain lion sighting...you never know.


Call (612) 861-9365 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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