Nature Center at Shaker Lakes

OUR MISSION

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes conserves a natural area, connects people with nature and inspires environmental stewardship.

OUR VISION

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes will be recognized as a model urban environmental resource that welcomes all and enriches people's lives through education, innovative programs and community involvement.

Founded in 1966 by community residents determined to protect the Shaker Parklands from a proposed freeway, the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes has since become a vital urban sanctuary and regional leader in environmental education. What began as a grassroots effort to preserve green space has grown into a 20-acre nature preserve that welcomes more than 140,000 visitors annually. For nearly six decades, the Nature Center has provided hands-on science education, habitat conservation, and community engagement opportunities, inspiring generations to connect with and care for the natural world.

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes advances its mission through hands-on environmental education, habitat conservation, and community engagement. Vertically aligned programs—from preschool initiatives like Head Start and ASK! to high school opportunities in the Youth Climate Institute—build curiosity, STEM skills, and environmental literacy across age groups. Conservation projects such as invasive species removal, tree canopy restoration, and habitat management sustain a healthy 20-acre preserve that doubles as an outdoor classroom. Seasonal events, volunteer programs, and accessible trails invite 140,000+ visitors annually to connect with nature and practice environmental stewardship.