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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
October 1, 2022 - March 31, 2023
Tuesday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: Closed
Park Gates are closed overnight: Tuesday - Saturday, 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
Feb 16 & 23. Mar 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30. April 6, 13, 20 & 27. May 4, 11, 18 & 25.
2:30-4:30 pm
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.
Global Recycling Day - Park Cleanup at Waterfall Park
Mar 18, 2023 1:15pm
Come out to Waterfall Park, and help us pickup litter and help keep Independence areas clean. Bring work gloves and water. Other supplies provided. (816) 325-7115.
Learn about Taxonomy!
Mar 21, 2023 - 1pm
What is Taxonomy? How do we classify animals? Learn the answers to these questions and more! Participants will have the opportunity to create their own animal and classify it just like scientists do to animals all over the world! Limited space available, please call ahead. (816)325-7115.
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.
