Springbrook Nature Center

I am amazed at these nature centers that are hidden away just minutes from large shopping malls and freeways. Springbrook Nature Center in Fridley is steps away from Northdale Mall, but you'd never know it.

ABOUT THE PARK
http://springbrooknaturecenter.org/

Springbrook's original 124 acres were purchased by the City of Fridley in 1970 and 71, using Land and Water Conservation Funds from federal grants.  Nature Center designation for this large park by the Fridley City Council occurred after public debate and a public referendum in 1974.  In earlier years, Springbrook’s land had been used for dairy cattle pasture, as horse riding trails, and as a roofing contractor’s materials dump site. At the time it became a nature center, Springbrook was surrounded by undeveloped land and had a small 10-car dirt parking lot for the center's estimated 5,000 annual visitations.

Three acres in the southwest corner were added in 1981 when the Northern States Power Company compensated for park area placed in an easement for its new high tension power line alongside its existing line on Springbrook’s west boundary. This brought the Nature Center to its current size of 127 acres.

Since 1974, Springbrook Nature Center has received more than 3.8 million dollars in grants and donations.  These funds, along with Springbrook’s small staff and more than 250,000 volunteer hours, have helped develop an interpretive building and exhibits, 3 miles of hiking trails, ½ mile of boardwalk over wetlands, a paved handicap accessible trail, a 90 car parking lot, picnic shelter, amphitheater, bridges, wildlife overlooks, and much more.

NATURE CENTER
My two-year-old touched his first snake inside the nature center at Spring Brook. And then we all got to see a HUGE snapping turtle (which was tough for the 2-year-old to stay away from!). They checked out all the reptiles, book corner, wood table, and dress-up outfits.

Then we headed outside to hike and picnic.

TO GET THERE
100 85th Ave NW, Fridley, MN 55432

(763) 572-3588