Haven’t been able to get out to visit state parks lately, and since I want to have a more immersive nature experience, i’ve been checking out the nature centers. Three centers below this week. Highly recommend checking them out, in nature but not so in the wild (I love being outside but can’t deal with the bugs mostly :) and definitely do not want to come across bears and other larger wildlife so this is a tamer but no less beautiful and awe inspiring experience!).
Wednesday 07/22/2020 - Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul - Main property
Dodge Nature Center West St Paul
They had beautiful prairie grounds with lots of wildflowers, along with a sunflower field. I didn’t get very many good pictures but definitely worth another visit. Was super buggy for me though, so i didn’t venture too far. Worth another visit back, also they have another property that I have yet to see.
Thursday 07/23/2020 - Wood Lake Nature Center
Wood Lake Nature Center
WOW. This one amazed me with the beautiful grounds, and the boardwalk. The birds had no fear of humans, they napped as we walked right by them. I went around sunrise, bugs were not too bad, some of the trails were closed due to flooding, but was able to get a good walk in before sunset. Sunset was beautiful. This is definitely another one to visit again. It might be super pretty during fall. I can’t wait to go back and explore maybe with sunrise next time!
Friday 07/24/2020 - Maplewood Nature Center
Maplewood Nature Center
This one was another WOW. The boardwalk with the lily pads, blue skies and sunshine, and the grounds all to myself for 20-30 minutes. Was totally unexpected, a little more rugged of a walk, but super pretty and super nice to be walking in the woods.
Wednesday 7/29/2029 - Tamarack Nature Center
Tamarack Nature Center
Spent an hour and a half here - was beautiful, and day was perfect for visiting! Not too many people, variety of trails, lots of wildflowers, interesting scenes.
