You might be surprised to discover how many nature preserves can be found in Dallas and other cities nearby
When it comes to outdoor activities in North Texas, fall is one of the best times to explore. Not only is the weather perfect, but in many places, you can see the glory of fall foliage. So it’s time to get out there and enjoy the natural beauty DFW has to offer before the chilly winter months set in. From the Trinity Audubon Center to the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, we’ve rounded up 13 of our favorite nature preserves in Dallas and beyond.
Trinity Audubon Center
From the impressive visitors center to the marshlands and the river trails, the Trinity Audubon is a hidden gem of a nature preserve in Dallas. There are over 6,000 acres of the Great Trinity Forest to explore, and it's just 10 miles away from downtown Dallas. They have guided hikes, bird-watching events, kid programs, and much more.
6500 Great Trinity Forest Way or 6500 S. Loop 12.
Dallas, TX
Online: trinityriver.audubon.org
Cedar Ridge Preserve
One of the best places for real hiking in DFW (imagine that on the prairie!), there is a nice mix of flat trails and elevated trails that come with stunning views. Leashed dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of opportunities for bird-watching as well.
7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy.
Dallas, TX
Online: audubondallas.org
John F. Burke Nature Preserve - Farmers Branch
This 104-acre retreat is only 10 miles away from DFW but feels like a different world! Wander along the Elm fork of the Trinity River to explore wetlands and upland forests, look for birds, or plan an overnight camping trip!
1111 Valley View Ln.
Farmers Branch, TX
Online: farmersbranchtx.gov
Related: The Best Hikes for Families in Dallas
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - Plano
Nestled on the edge of western Plano, the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is popular with families. Follow the trails along the creek, ride bikes, wander through the wildflower pasture or stop for lunch at one of the picnic tables located in the 200-acre park.
6701 W Parker Rd.
Plano, TX
Online: plano.gov
Spring Creek Forest - Garland
There have been over 650 species identified in Spring Creek Forest. This bottomland forest has been protected from development and offers paved trails that are perfect for families. And, if you have a fossil enthusiast in your group, be sure to check out the cliffs to see if you can spot any!
1770 Holford Rd.
Garland, TX
Online: springcreekforest.org
Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge - Fort Worth
One of the best nature preserves in DFW, it’s easy to spend a whole day at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge. There are over 20 miles of trails in the 3000+-acre open space, making it one of the biggest city-owned nature centers in the country. You’ll have fun spotting wildlife (including alligators, so keep littles close), exploring the beautifully maintained trails, and even meeting some bison!
9601 Fossil Ridge Rd,
Fort Worth, TX
Online: fwnaturecenter.org
Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center - Cedar Hill
Another great place for an uphill hike, the Dogwood Canyon Audubon also has a fun natural play space for kids and an interesting visitors center. Both are still closed due to COVID, but be sure to set aside time to explore when they open back up. They also usually have kayak tours, summer camps, guided tours, and Birds of Prey encounters!
1206 FM1382
Cedar Hill, TX
Online: dogwood.audubon.org
Trinity Forest Gateway and Horse Trails
This is a smaller nature preserve in Dallas. It's on the edge of the Trinity River Corridor Project, but it still offers plenty to do! There’s a fishing pier, ½ mile of paved trail around the pond, open prairie space, pavilions for picnics, and for those with horses, there’s access to four miles of soft trail.
21611 Dowdy Ferry Rd.
Dallas, TX
Online: trinityrivercorridor.com
Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center - Denton
This nature center acts as a gateway to over 2,000 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, water habitats, and upland prairie—things North Texas is known for! There are five miles of family-friendly hiking trails, some of which will give kids a chance to look for beavers, herons, and other aquatic species.
3310 Collins Rd.
Denton, TX
Online: cityofdenton.com
Related: Where to See Waterfalls in Dallas & Beyond
Pettinger Nature Preserve & The Trails at Squabble Creek - Rockwall
If you live on the east side of the metroplex, cross Lake Ray Hubbard and spend a day in Rockwall. Pettinger Nature Preserve, a 26-acre space with a one-mile loop that opened in the spring of 2020, borders Squabble Creek and has a beautiful meadow with a butterfly garden and two outdoor picnic areas. Across the creek are the Trails at Squabble Creek. With a combination of mountain bike and hiking trails, there are six loops to choose from, and they vary from an open meadow walk to more dense trails along the creek.
450 W. Quail Run Rd.
Rockwall, TX
1401 Dickson Ln.
Rockwall, TX
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary - McKinney
One of the best places to learn about nature and wildlife in DFW, the Heard Museum is a curious kiddo’s wonderland! Wander through 6.5 miles of trails, explore the butterfly house, play in the pioneer museum, dig for fossils, and more!
1 Nature Place
McKinney, TX
Online: heardmuseum.org
Oak Cliff Nature Preserve
Located in the heart of Dallas, this open space offers 121 acres up to the public. With over eight miles of biking/walking trails, it's the perfect place to enjoy nature without having to drive too far.
2875 Pierce St.
Dallas, TX
