Nature Center

Welcome to the Ruth Edwards Nature Center

Explore & Discover

• Forest Preserve & Trails: Step outside to explore over 200 acres of diverse forest and trails.
• Interactive Exhibits: Inside the Nature Center, visit our touch-and-play tables featuring an extensive collection of artifacts, from soft animal pelts to detailed animal bones.
• The Historic Reagan Bathhouse: Visit us down by the water! Built in 1922, this historic landmark now serves as a vibrant hub for our river-based programming and water ecology education.
• Wildlife Viewing: Observe local species in their natural habitat through our large-scale bird viewing window.

Programs & Outreach

• Sculpting Spring Series: Join our hands-on clay workshops, such as our popular Woodland Animal sessions, where visitors can create or paint their own nature-inspired art.
• Classroom Outreach: We bring the magic of Lowell Park to local schools with programs like "Artifact & Adventure" and "Story & Spark," designed specifically for high-engagement learning for younger students.
• Birding 101 & Master Series: Whether you are a "birdwatcher" or a dedicated "birder," our programs offer guided sessions across Dixon’s diverse habitats focusing on identification by sight and sound, binocular expertise, and maintaining a "Lifer List".
• Seasonal Field Trips: Our spring field trips offer guided discovery led by our expert team, often in collaboration with University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists and their coordinators.
• Summer Adventure Camps: During the warmer months, we host immersive summer camps where kids can dive deep into nature through hands-on exploration, science-based activities, and outdoor play.
• Riverfront & Water Adventures: Based out of the Historic Reagan Bathhouse, these sessions offer a unique perspective on our local aquatic ecosystem through guided kayaking and river education.
• Adventure Hikes: Join us for specialized hikes that go beyond the main trails. From tracking wildlife to identifying native plants, these high-energy treks are perfect for those looking for a deeper physical and educational challenge in the park.