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George Owens Nature Park
Providing families with outdoor nature opportunities since 1977.
1601 S. Speck Rd.
(North of East 23rd Street and Speck Road intersection)
(816) 325-7115
April 1, 2023 - September 30, 2023
Gates Open:
Tuesday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: Noon - 5 p.m.
Monday: Closed
Park Gates are closed overnight: Tuesday - Friday, parking lot gates close at 8 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, parking lot gates close at 5 p.m.
Please have your vehicle out by closing time to avoid being locked in for the night.
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
- 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!
Rental Request Form
Upcoming Events
Let's Play Chess
June 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29. July 6, 13, 20 & 27. August 3, 10, 17 & 24. September 14, 21 & 28.
2:30-4:30 p.m.
Pick up chess at George Owens Nature Park. Interested in learning how to play or just looking to meet new players to play against. All levels welcome.
Stories by the Campfire - Space & Stars
June 11, Sunday. 1:30-2:20p.m.
Hear the story of Cathay Williams, first known female Buffalo Soldier. Plus she was born in Independence! Presented by Donna Madison. Limited seating around the campfire, but you may want to bring a lawn chair or blanket. (816) 325-7115.
Nature Walk Thursdays!
June 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29. July 6, 13, 20 & 27. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Enjoy one of the park trails with our Park Naturalist and learn about the things we discover on the trail! Appropriate for all ages, please dress for the weather and expect uneven terrain.
The first Thursday of each month (May 4, June 1 & July 6) we will stay on the paved trails of the park. Wheelchair accessible.
Missouri Tree Identification at Fairmount Community Center
June 15, Thursday. 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Learn terminology, identify trees by leaf shape. This program is all ages, youth and adult. Fairmount Community Center is located in Western Independence at 217 S. Cedar Ave. Call (816) 325-7115 for questions or directions.
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.
