Ballard Nature Center building

A place for outdoor fun and education for the whole family!

Ballard Nature Center provides a place for visitors to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature and also a chance to learn more about the natural world. Outdoor opportunities include trails of varying lengths, picnic sites, and a kids’ fishing pond. The visitor center provides exhibits and displays that will intrigue visitors that are young and young at heart. The center’s staff provide a variety of educational programing throughout the year. We hope to see you soon!
About Us

September 25 @ 6:30 pm

Campfire Night


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October 3 @ 1:00 pm

Fall Fun Day


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October 17 @ 7:00 pm

Night Sky


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November 14 @ 5:30 pm

Annual Fundraising Banquet

Join us for an 'enchanting' evening at the Effingham Event Center in support of environmental education and conservation! Raffles, Silent Auction, & Live Auction are all part of the fun. Doors open at 5:30pm. Dinner at 7:00pm.


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Trails

The many types and lengths of trails allow visitors to experience several natural habitats!


Visitor Center

Learn about nature in our large exhibit room with a kid’s area, a bird viewing area, and so much more!


Photo Gallery

See the beauty of nature and browse the many photos taken around the Nature Center!