Bartlett Nature Center
Bartlett Nature Center at James “Pate” Philip State Park offers a wide variety of programs to explore nature through activities, hands-on projects, and games. Displays at the center include reptiles, amphibians, insects, animal bones and pelts. Outside there are four miles of crushed limestone trails for hiking, bicycling, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Rental opportunities are available for public/private functions, youth groups, and the community. Celebrate your next birthday at the nature center where you can select from unique experiences of Animal Encounters, Nature Detectives, Trekking Trails, Gardening, Bugology, Campfire, or do it yourself with a room rental.
Bartlett Nature Center is open Monday through Friday 9am-4pm and Saturday 9am-1pm. The nature center is closed on New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Trails and the Shelter are open 1 hour after dawn to dusk.
NEW! Discovery Backpacks Available for Check Out
Turn your next hike into a hands-on exploration of the outdoors with our Discovery Backpack program. Each Discovery Backpack is packed with fun tools and supplies, including magnifying glasses, field guides, binoculars, activity sheets and more. Discovery Backpack check is available: Monday through Friday 9am-2pm (return by 4pm) Saturday 9-11am (return by 12noon).
How It Works:
Leave your car keys as a deposit and check out a backpack. No fee required. Go explore, discover, and have fun. Return everything in good condition and retrieve your car keys. It’s easy and a great way to learn and play outside. Usage is restricted to onsite trails.
