This Arkansas Nature Center Is An Adventure Just Waiting To Happen

You can always count on the Natural State to have bits of nature hiding in the most unexpected places. Even our largest city, Little Rock, has more nature than the capital cities of most states. One little piece of urban natural adventure is hiding in Little Rock, in the heart of one of the best developed riverfront areas anywhere. Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center is a wonderful way to explore the ecology of Arkansas, and it’s the perfect way to spend a day in the wild, while remaining indoors.

The Witt Stephens Central Arkansas Nature Center is located at 602 President Clinton Avenue in Little Rock.

The nature center is located within the Julius Breckling Riverfront Park, placing it in a unique area that’s altogether a completely lovely place to explore.

It’s set on just under 3.5 acres, and part of the grounds overlook the Arkansas River.

Most of what you’ll want to see is located indoors, in the more than 16,000 square feet of the nature center.

That’s some really good news, because as the temperature climbs in the hot, hot months of July and August, you can explore the ecosystems of Arkansas without venturing out into the heat.

You’ll find an exhibit timeline that shows the natural history of the Natural State, featuring the important natural resources and wildlife of Arkansas, emphasizing the 100 years of conservation by Arkansas Fish and Game.

Their collection of fishing lures and tackle is as impressive as it is extensive.

As for the fish themselves, large indoor tanks feature some truly incredible specimens of native fish species.

You’ll see other kinds of wildlife there too. If you show up at around 2 p.m., you may even get to see a gator feeding.

The riverfront area on the grounds offers an opportunity to encounter over 100 species of birds.

Right next door is the William E. "Bill" Clark Presidential Park Wetlands. There’s even more wildlife to be found in this urban oasis.

Whether you’re exploring the nature center solo, as a couple, or with the kids, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon. The staff there is always willing to teach you about the conservation in the Natural State. It’s totally free to visit.

In short, if you’re looking for an adventure through nature that can be had mostly in the comfort of an air conditioned building, you need to try the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center. It’s a little piece of the outdoors brought inside, and it’s hiding right in the heart of Little Rock’s River Market District.

To see more things you should do in the immediate area, click here. You might also want to check out this weird and wacky alligator farm.