explore the
nature center
welcome to the nature center
Experience the tranquility of Lake Aspen
Take a peaceful stroll along the shores of Lake Aspen and enjoy nature at its finest. This serene setting offers the perfect opportunity to observe wildlife in action—from busy beavers and playful otters to elegant herons, ducks, and geese.
Immerse yourself in a living canvas
Wander through the Beard Family Botanic Garden and experience the beauty of Central Oregon’s native plants. From wildflowers to pollinator havens, this tranquil space highlights the diversity of our high desert landscape.
Visit the creature cave
Step into the Creature Cave and get up close with snakes, frogs, lizards, and salamanders. It’s an engaging peek into the hidden world of desert creatures.
who’s at the nature center?
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![A young man and girl sitting on a small wooden bridge over a creek, looking at a book together in a lush garden with green foliage.]()
Learn About the Botanic Garden
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![A large bird of prey, possibly a hawk or falcon, is lying on the ground with a green tether attached to its leg and equipment around it. In the background, three people wearing masks and outdoor jackets are observing, standing in front of a house with horizontal siding.]()
Meet Freya, the Gyrfalcon!
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![A life-sized model of an owl with real feathers, perched on a green textured surface inside in front of a window showing trees outside.]()
Meet Luna, the Eurasian Eagle-Owl!
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![A white swan swimming in a pond with tall green grass in the background.]()
See the Trumpeter Swans of SNCO!
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![Close-up of honeybees on a honeycomb with a queen bee marked with a red dot.]()
Observe the Honey Bee Hive!
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![Close-up of a hawk perched on a person's gloved hand, with a blurred green background.]()
Learn About Our Flying Friends!
what’s going on at the nature center this month?
Use the “Event Type” filter below!
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don’t forget to check the weather
Look at our weather page for temperatures, cloud cover, air quality and more!
