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

June 10 @ 9:00 am

Trivia Trail

Test your wildlife knowledge as you walk the Ridgetop Trail! Grab an answer sheet & answer the questions posted along the trail. Turn in your paper at the visitor center or place in the frog donation box with your name and phone number for a chance to win a prize. One entry per person. Open to all ages.


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June 11 @ 9:00 am

Sticks & Mud

Lots of fun in nature playing games and crafting using sticks & mud/clay

Kids ages 6-9 Ticket Cost: $12


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June 12 @ 9:00 am

Sticks & Mud

Lots of fun in nature playing games and crafting using sticks & mud/clay

Kids ages 6-9 Ticket Cost: $12


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June 13 @ 10:00 am

Colorful Birds

A story, How the Birds Got Their Colors, with related activities, craft, & trail walk.  Family program. Registration begins 2 weeks prior to the program date.  To register: email us ballardnc@frontiernet.net, call us 618-483-6856, or send a private message on Facebook.    Once you have registered, if you find that you cannot attend, please let us know since program size is limited.  


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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!