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.
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
