Most Beautiful Nature Reserves Near Dallas

Cedar Ridge Preserve, an Audubon nature sanctuary, offers a captivating escape into 600 acres of pristine hill country habitat with over 9 miles of diverse hiking trails. Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers, this preserve features stunning lake views and a rich variety of native flora and fauna. Visitors often praise the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels, providing an immersive experience into the heart of Texas wilderness. It’s an ideal spot for bird watching, photography, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk with family and furry friends, making it a beloved gem near Dallas. [0]

Good for

• ✔ Children
• ✔ Dogs

Amenities

• ❌ Wi-Fi

Parking options

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payment options

• ✔ Credit Card
• ✔ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only

Spanning an impressive 3,621 acres, the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is one of the largest city-owned nature preserves in the United States. Boasting over 20 miles of hiking trails, this refuge offers a unique opportunity to encounter native Texas wildlife, including roaming bison, alligators, deer, and an abundance of bird species. The presence of a visitor center enhances the educational experience, making it an excellent destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Its vast, untamed landscape provides a truly immersive wilderness experience, feeling a world away from the city’s hustle. [1]

Good for

• ✔ Children
• ✔ Dogs

Amenities

• ❌ Wi-Fi

Parking options

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payment options

• ✔ Credit Card
• ✔ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, a 200-acre oasis in Plano, is renowned for its picturesque trails that wind through lush woods and open fields. This well-maintained park features a comprehensive trail system, a playground, a picnic pavilion, and public restrooms, making it exceptionally family-friendly. Its easy access and diverse scenery, from shaded forested paths to sunny prairie expanses, provide a refreshing escape for walkers, runners, and cyclists. The observation tower offers panoramic views, adding to the preserve’s charm and making it a popular spot for both recreation and serene contemplation amidst nature. [2]

Good for

• ✔ Children
• ✔ Dogs

Amenities

• ❌ Wi-Fi

Parking options

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payment options

• ❌ Credit Card
• ✔ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only

As the largest park in Plano, Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve sprawls across 800 acres, offering nearly 13 miles of both paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking, and even fishing. Centered around a tranquil small lake, the preserve provides a stunning natural backdrop for various outdoor activities. It boasts amenities like a pavilion and an amphitheater, frequently hosting community events. Visitors can immerse themselves in its forested areas, enjoy picturesque views, and discover the diverse plant and animal life that thrives here. It’s a true natural haven for relaxation and adventure. [4]

Good for

• ✔ Children
• ✔ Dogs

Amenities

• ❌ Wi-Fi

Parking options

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payment options

• ❌ Cash Only

The Trinity River Audubon Center stands as a testament to nature’s resilience, transforming from a former illegal dump site into a vibrant 130-acre haven for wildlife, particularly birds. This unique nature preserve features well-maintained hiking and biking trails, offering numerous lookouts perfect for avid birdwatchers. The visitor center provides educational exhibits that deepen understanding of local ecosystems. While dogs are not permitted, the center’s commitment to conservation and education, coupled with its serene environment and guided walks, makes it an enriching destination for families and anyone passionate about environmental stewardship and bird-watching. [6]

Good for

• ✔ Children
• ❌ Dogs

Amenities

• ❌ Wi-Fi

Parking options

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payment options

• ✔ Credit Card
• ✔ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only
• ✔ NFC

The Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA) Nature Preserve offers a vast expanse of natural beauty, perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities. This scenic preserve boasts diverse trails, opportunities for fishing, camping, and kayaking, alongside a welcoming visitor center. Its landscape encompasses beaver ponds, lush forests, and expansive prairies, providing a rich habitat for various wildlife. LLELA is an ideal spot for those looking for a more immersive nature experience beyond a simple walk, offering everything from quiet contemplation to adventurous exploration in a pristine natural setting. [12]

Good for

• ✔ Children

Amenities

• ❌ Wi-Fi

Parking options

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payment options

• ✔ Credit Card
• ✔ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only