Click here for COVID-19 Information and Updates

CLOSING INFORMATION

The following facilities have been closed until further notice out of an abundance of caution for the public health.
We understand you may have questions about programs, classes, events or membership.

Please call the following numbers for information related to each facility:

Palmer Senior Center - (816) 325-6200
Truman Memorial Building - (816) 325-7843
Sermon Community Center - (816) 325-7370
George Owens Nature Park - (816) 325-7115 (trails open- buildings closed)
National Frontier Trails Museum - (816) 325-7575

For further updates on service changes, closures or cancellations, please visit indep.us/coronavirus

 

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

IMPORTANT - On March 12, 2020 the City of Independence declared a State of Emergency.  Out of an abundance of caution for the public health, George Owens Nature Park has been temporarily closed to the public.  All classes, programs and events have been postponed.  Please visit indep.us/coronavirus for updates as this situation evolves.  If you have questions about refunds or rentals, please call 816.325.7115 or email parks@indepmo.org.  Staff will respond to you question as soon as possible.  Thank you for your patience.

 

Spring & Summer Hours (May 1 - September30)

    Tuesday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

    Saturday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

    Sunday: Noon - 5 p.m.

    Monday: Closed.

 

COVID-19 Nature Park Operations – Please take extra precautions around our park equipment at this time, we cannot guarantee the pavilion, picnic tables, benches and other park assets have been sanitized between uses.  While we fully understand your need for recreational opportunities right now please exercise caution.

Open for use - Hiking/walking trails and fishing ponds.

Closed – Buildings, restrooms, and park gate.

Parking is available across the street.

 

 

   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.

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        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

 

 Click here to check out rental fees for our facility!

 

Upcoming Events

 

 

Original Tindall Art Show - postponed

Jan 7 - Mar 31, 2020

Tue-Sat: 8:30am - 5:00pm

Independence native Robert E. Tindall's artwork will be on display with our largest collection of his work yet!  16+ original works will be on display.

Tindall Art Show Reception

Sat, Mar 14

1 - 3pm             Discussions about Robert E. Tindall's life and his art along with the artwork of local Independence artists.

                         Activities will be in the DeWitt Center at George Owens Nature Park.

Call (816) 325-7951 for details.

 

 

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.