Ballard Nature Center building

A place for outdoor fun and education for the whole family!

Ballard Nature Center provides a place for visitors to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature and also a chance to learn more about the natural world. Outdoor opportunities include trails of varying lengths, picnic sites, and a kids’ fishing pond. The visitor center provides exhibits and displays that will intrigue visitors that are young and young at heart. The center’s staff provide a variety of educational programing throughout the year. We hope to see you soon!
About Us

March 13 @ 10:00 am

Paint Class

Come paint a butterfly and learn about the common butterflies of Ballard Nature Center.  For adults of all ages.  $5 fee.  Register via email, phone, or facebook message.


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March 15 @ 1:00 pm

Owls, Hiding in Plain Sight

Mark H.X. Glenshaw is an award-winning naturalist who has closely observed and documented the lives of Great-Horned Owls in Forest Park, a large urban park in St. Louis, since December 2005.  Mark’s talk will cover how he found these owls & basic facts about the  species.  He uses his photos and videos to illustrate the amazing  behaviors of these beautiful birds.  Open to all ages.  Popcorn provided. No fee.  For registration: email ballardnc@frontiernet.net, Facebook message us, or call 618-483-6856.  


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April 4 @ 6:00 pm

Sounds of Spring

Come learn about the animals who make their voices heard in the spring!  We'll have a sweet book, play fun games, and go on a trail walk to enjoy nature in spring.  Register via email, phone, or facebook message.  No fee.  Family program.


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April 17 @ 9:00 am

Mushroom Story Trail

Read a story, learn about mushrooms, and do activities while walking our special self-guided trail.


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Trails

The many types and lengths of trails allow visitors to experience several natural habitats!


Visitor Center

Learn about nature in our large exhibit room with a kid’s area, a bird viewing area, and so much more!


Photo Gallery

See the beauty of nature and browse the many photos taken around the Nature Center!