River Bend Nature Center

Looking to escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in the world of wild nature without leaving the city limits? River Bend Nature Center is a unique 20-acre private environmental sanctuary located in the city of Wichita Falls. This non-profit center in the USA serves as an important bridge between people and the environment, combining educational spaces with untouched natural landscapes.

The centerpiece of the center is the Ruby N. Priddy Butterfly and Nature Conservatory—an impressive glass pavilion spanning over 7,000 square feet. Inside, an amazing ecosystem has been created where hundreds of butterflies flutter among exotic plants, while prairie dogs, turtles, and fish live nearby. This is a place where Texas nature reveals itself in all its diversity.

Beyond the conservatory, visitors will find the Bryant Edwards Learning Center, which features over 100 live exhibits, from elusive salamanders to rare frog species. River Bend is not just an open-air museum, but a living space with forest trails and wetlands that are perfect for educational family walks.

To contact the center's administration or for information regarding special events, you can use the following details:

At River Bend Nature Center, everyone will find something to enjoy. Start your adventure with a visit to the Ruby N. Priddy Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Here, you can spend hours observing the butterfly life cycle, watching nimble prairie dogs, and admiring vibrant wildflowers. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking peace and inspiration surrounded by nature.

For curious visitors and families with children, the Bryant Edwards Learning Center is a must-see. Interactive exhibits such as water tables, magnetic walls, and even an earthquake simulator turn learning into an exciting game. You can get a close-up look at the inhabitants of local ponds and forests in a comfortable and safe environment.

Outdoor enthusiasts should head out to explore the River Bottom Forest Trail or take a stroll through Peyton’s Place. These trails wind through authentic regional ecosystems, allowing you to spot rare birds and insects in their natural habitat. End a full day with a cozy picnic in the United Children’s Garden or under the eaves of the open pavilion, enjoying the fresh air and tranquility.

River Bend Nature Center is located at 2200 3rd St, practically in the heart of the city. It is situated in a picturesque spot near the confluence of rivers and the famous waterfalls of Wichita Falls. For travelers by car, getting here is simple: Google Maps navigation leads directly to the spacious and free parking right at the entrance to the center.

If you prefer public transport, bus routes operate in the city, although tourists often find it more convenient to use taxi or rideshare services. This is especially relevant if you are arriving from the Sheppard AFB (SPS) regional airport or the central station. The ride from the city center takes only a few minutes.

The history of this remarkable place began in 1991. It was then that an initiative group from the Junior League of Wichita Falls, together with city authorities, conceived the idea of creating the region's first center dedicated to environmental education and outdoor recreation.

The center was officially incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1995. From its earliest days, forest and wetland trails were opened to visitors, along with the first spacious pavilion. Between 2003 and 2008, the site expanded significantly, becoming a vital educational resource for studying the natural history of the Rolling Plains region.

A special place in the center's history is held by the construction of the Ruby N. Priddy Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. This modern glass structure was designed specifically to showcase the richness of local flora and fauna in a controlled yet highly natural environment. Today, River Bend continues to evolve, remaining a key guardian of the community's natural heritage.

To leisurely explore all the key locations of the River Bend Nature Center, experienced travelers recommend setting aside about 2–3 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy the beauty of the butterfly conservatory and study the interactive exhibits in the main building.

A sample visit plan might look like this: about 45 minutes for the conservatory and live exhibits, and another hour for a walk along the forest trails and through the gardens. If you plan to have a family picnic outdoors or if your children want to stay longer in the play areas, you should budget for half a day.

River Bend Nature Center is open to guests daily, making it easy to fit into your travel itinerary:

\n
• Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
\n
• Saturday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
\n
• Sunday: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
\n

Please note that operating hours may change on holidays, so it is recommended to check the organization's official website before your visit.

A stroll through the nature center is just part of what this welcoming region has to offer. Exploring the surroundings will help you better experience the Texas atmosphere and discover its historical heritage, from unique architecture to cozy local pubs.

In the immediate vicinity of the center, you will find several iconic spots to include in your itinerary: