Elkton Community Education Center Of Oregon Is Home To The State’s Largest Butterfly House And Maze

Butterflies are enchanting little creatures. Colorful, fluttering, and wholly alive, butterflies are a living lesson in change. They remind us that when one thing ends, something better almost always begins. And, of course, these winsome insects also possess major pollinating prowess. In Oregon, you can delight in flocks of butterflies at Elkton Community Education Center. Home to Oregon's largest butterfly house and garden, Elkton Community Center makes for an absolutely delightful day trip.

Butterflies are Mother Nature's most joyful creatures -- exuberant and vivacious.

But sadly, over the past 20 years, the butterfly population -- specifically the majestic monarch -- has decreased by nearly 90%, due to a rapid loss of habitat.

Elkton Community Education Center (ECEC) is on a mission to change that.

Founded in 1999 by retired teacher Carol Beckley, the mission of ECEC is to create a rural community to inspire and educate future generations.

The campus's 30-acre site includes walking trails, community gardens, and a farmers market.

The Native Oregon Plant Park is 4.5 acres of pure Beaver State beauty, a surprising little oasis perfect for relaxing and reconnecting with nature.

But the main feature of this community center is its extensive butterfly garden.

From June through September, the outdoor butterfly garden is abuzz with butterflies and other pollinators.

In fact, ECEC has been lauded as one of the best places to see butterflies in the country and offers endless opportunities to get up close with these enchanting creatures.

Did you know that only 5% of butterfly eggs make it to adulthood? ECEC educates Oregonians on how to turn their own backyards into welcoming butterfly habitats.

And while you're there, be sure to stop by the garden center to pick up pollinator-friendly plants. All proceeds benefit ECEC, truly one of Oregon's most noble nonprofits.

Butterflies especially love milkweed, thistle, maple, aspen, and nettles.

Just like a butterfly's metamorphosis, change doesn't happen overnight. It's slow and steady, one step at a time.

At Elkton Community Education Center, there's a sea change starting to occur, with these fluttering little creatures leading the way.

A group of butterflies is called a kaleidoscope. Isn't that beautiful? At ECEC, you can delight in a kaleidoscope of color, one that will hopefully spread across the state and country in years to come.

Elkton Community Education Center is a true Oregon treasure. The best time to see these beauties is between June and September, and you can learn more and plan your trip to Oregon's largest butterfly house by visiting the Elkton Community Education Center website.

And if you're looking for another day trip idea in Oregon, check out Portland Japanese Garden, a wondrous urban oasis that offers plenty of peace and tranquility.