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George Owens Nature Park
Providing families with outdoor opportunities since 1977.
1601 S. Speck Rd.
(North of East 23rd Street and Speck Road intersection)
(816) 325-7115
2018-19 Fall & Winter Hours (October 1, 2018 - April 30, 2019)
Tuesday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m
Saturday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday & Monday: Closed
NATURE NOTES (click to view)
George Owens Nature Park has given families the opportunity to reconnect with their natural environment since 1977. The park is open year round and provides 86 acres of beautiful forest, lakes, hiking trails and wildlife. Explore the DeWitt Center and experience rotating exhibits, a pond display and 4 large aquariums.
The current traveling exhibit shows Independence through the rock record - fossils, photographs and art will guide you along a comprehensive path of discovery.
The possibilities for adventure are endless.
Park Amenities
- Three miles of Hiking Trails (One Paved)
- Two Fishing Lakes
- Organized Group Campground
- ADA Accessible Dock
- Family Picnic Area
- DeWitt Center
- Rain Gardens
- Bio Swales
- Pavilion
- Butterfly Garden
- Outdoor and Nature Programs for the Entire Family
Upcoming Events
Full Moon Hikes
*November 24 6:30-7:30 p.m. (Beaver Moon rises at 6:35 p.m.)
*December 21 5:00-6:00 p.m. (Long Night Moon rises at 4:22 p.m.)
*Thanksgiving and Christmas hikes will be on paved trails that are stroller and wheelchair accessible.
See the park lit up by a full moon and learn about the park at night. These hikes do fill up, so reserve your spot early. Each hike is limited to 15 participants. No light up shoes, please and dress for the weather.
Reserve your spot by calling 816.325.7115.
15th Annual Winter Solstice Torch Lit Hike
Wednesday, December 12, 5-6:30 p.m.
Ice Sculptures, live raptors, telescopes to view the night sky (weather dependent), a variety of snowmen decorated by Independence families, organizations and businesses and much more. Walk a torch lit trail through the park and learn about the change of seasons. Stay warm with a roaring fire and hot chocolate. Free travel mugs for the first 200 participants.
Call 816.325.7115 for more information. The Snowman Trail will be on display from December 12 - January 31.
If you, your family or organization are interested in decorating a snowman, you can pick one up for $10 at the Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Independence (505. N Dodgion) Nov 1 - Dec 4, 2018.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer And Make A Difference!
If you have a love for the outdoors and want to help George Owens Nature Park, please consider volunteering your time at the nature park. Contact us at (816) 325-7115 to learn more.
Individuals and family volunteers will learn about our natural world by assisting park staff. We have volunteer opportunities that will fit your interest - gardening, maintaining bird feeders, assisting with nature programs, etc.
