Springdale
J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center
We are closed on Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Please call 833-356-0847 before you come unless you are planning a self-guided visit of the area.
- Sunday: Closed
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Nature Center Offerings
About Us
Welcome to the J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center. This 32,000 square foot facility on over 61 acres is the newest place to learn about the natural world and outdoor recreation in Northwest Arkansas. We are located at 3400 North 40th Street, Springdale, AR 72762.
You can now reach the center by bike or on foot! We are located along the Spring Creek Trail, which connects you to the Razorback Greenway and the Thunder Chicken mountain bike trail.
Contact us at 833-356-0847 for more information.
We look forward to your visit where you will be able to:
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- See live wildlife and fish
- Interact with fun and high-tech exhibits
- Participate in fun and educational activities
- Practice your marksmanship skills
- Relax and gather in our outdoor pavilions
- Take a walk on the trail
- Take some fun selfies and photos with friends
Admission to the nature center is free thanks to your support of the Amendment 75 Conservation Fund.
Helpful Links
Bring the Outdoors Into Your Community
Click here to request AGFC support for community events, education outreach in your school and more.
Things to Do
There is always something new to see or do at the Nature Center.
- Explore the Walker Family Foundation Exhibit Hall
- Learn about nature in the Schmieding Foundation Creative Center
- Hone your archery and BB-gun shooting skills in the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation
- Marksmanship Center
- Explore our trails, including 3,950 linear feet that are ADA accessible
- Spend a quiet moment watching the water flow in the JB Hunt Transport Services, Inc. Plaza
- Take in a class in one of our three indoor classrooms or in one of the two pavilions that serve as outdoor classroom spaces.
- Shoot your bow on our outdoor 3-D archery range
School and Group Programs
Planning a Trip to J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center
Teachers and group leaders are requested to schedule their visit to the Ozark Highlands Nature Center by filling out the School Group Reservation Form. Once submitted we will contact you to confirm your reservation date. Submission of the request form does not guarantee the date.
Click here to fill out the School and Group Reservation Form
Most AGFC programs meet requirements that earn achievements towards the Outdoor Skills Patch Program.
What Should We Wear?
Because the nature center includes a hiking trail and outdoors exhibits, it’s best to wear comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing appropriate for outdoor activities. Sunscreen and bug repellent are especially important during spring and summer. Please keep students hydrated on hot days. Be prepared for rain. Programs are not cancelled unless there are severe weather conditions. We will not cancel your reservation because of inclement weather. Alternate indoor activities can be planned in case of inclement weather.
Can We Shop?
All visitors are welcome to visit the gift shop. We offer a wide selection of gifts, books, and nature supplies. If you would like to allow your group time to shop, please plan for additional time beyond the scheduled programs. We can plan a shopping visit as part of your visit plan.
Can We Eat Lunch There?
You are welcome to bring a sack lunch and enjoy the day, picnic tables and pavilions are limited. The north side patio of the center is recommended for picnics and group lunches.
What if it Rains?
Reservations are not cancelled because of rain. You must contact the park if you wish to cancel and reschedule. Many alternate indoor activities can be planned for your visit.
People with Disabilities
The nature center is designed to be as accessible as possible. The Prairie Restoration Trail meets all Americans with Disabilities Act standards. The trail hub for these areas is accessible from either the nature center or the parking area. Doors, exhibit hall and hallways meet ADA standards.
Please let us know if any members of your group have special physical or behavioral needs. This will enable our staff to plan the best experience.
Your Group’s Behavior Expectations
Teachers and chaperones are responsible for maintaining discipline in the group. Please explain to your students that appropriate and orderly behavior is expected during their visit. One adult chaperone for every 10 to 15 children is required for kids up to 5th grade, and recommended for higher grades. Chaperones are expected to aid in supervision of the group, and dispersed throughout the group. Remind the students to have respect for the natural resources and courtesy toward each other and staff. Keep in mind that other people are visiting the nature center at the same time.
Rules and Regulations
To help protect your group and your nature center, please make sure all members of your group follow the following rules:
- All plants, animals, minerals, artifacts and other features on the center’s grounds are protected. Please leave them for the next person to enjoy.
- Please dispose of trash properly. Trash containers are near picnic tables and inside the building.
- While touring the center, all members of the group should remain with the group.
- A staff member will be your hiking guide. Groups must stay behind the staff member on the interpretive trails unless instructed otherwise.
Student Preparation
Research shows students retain more information from field trips if they have some knowledge about what they will see, hear and experience prior to their visit. Please share information with your students before their visit to the Ozark Highlands Nature Center. A trip to the nature center is an excellent way to reward students for completing a lesson plan about natural resources or biology.
Host Your Event
- Complete the room request google form below.
- Please understand that this does not finalize your reservation but is an inquiry for more information.
- Submitting requests a minimum of 45 days before your function is best.
- Ozark Highlands Nature Center Room Rental Prices
- You can contact the center at 877-486-9870 or email ozarkhighlands@agfc.ar.gov with questions.
Click “read more” to fill out the OHNC rental/use form below.
Our Supporters
Construction of the JB and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center would not have been possible without generous contributions from:
- J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family
- City of Springdale
- Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation
- Walton Family Foundation
- The Schmieding Foundation
- Walmart Northwest Arkansas Giving
- Pat and Willard Walker Family
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
- Arkansas Federal Credit Union
Additionally, we would like to recognize the following supporters:
- Bobby and Margie Martin
- Kirk and Cynthia Dupps
- The Bugos Family
- Sam Mathias Family
- George and Livia Dunklin
- The Wisener Family
- John Russell Meeks
- Signature Bank of Arkansas
- Family of Brandon Adams
- Families of Carter Clark and Marshall Saviers
- The Rice Family
- The Rateliff Family
- Wilson Auctioneers Inc. / Joe and Susan Wilson
- The Fehlig Family
- The Woodruff Family
- Richie and Karen Roberts
- Wil-Shar Steel
- The Haworth Family
- Rausch Coleman Homes
- Jason And Candice West Family
- The Coughlin Family – In Memory of Thomas M. Coughlin III
- APAC-Central, Inc.
- Rob and Nicki Finley
- Paul and Shana Olinger Family
- The Martz Family
- Chris and Macy Crossland
- Outdoor Cap
- Clete and Tammy Brewer
Nature Center Event Calendar
Have you ever wanted to try hunting or harvest your own food? The Outdoor Skills Network is your one-stop resource for events offered by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and a network of partners who conduct opportunities to engage your outdoor skills in hunting, fishing, trapping, safety, wildlife, marksmanship, and more!
Volunteer Opportunties
Arkansas has a rich history steeped in hunting and fishing. Northwest Arkansas in particular is one of the fastest growing places in the country and the need for knowledge has never been greater. J. B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center is looking for volunteers that are willing to come share their passion and knowledge with the public. It brings us great joy to be in Northwest Arkansas spreading information on our outdoor culture. We hope you’ll join us.
We’re looking for experienced hunters, anglers, and more! We have many different ways to volunteer for each and every individual. Everything from computers and greeting to archery and animal care. We encourage people of all interest to come out!
Volunteering time is the best donation one can give. Here at J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center volunteers and visitors alike can take place in an experience that is unique and rewarding.
Get in Touch
For more information regarding the J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center, or to schedule a class or group field trip, give us a call.