Welcome to

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

KENTUCKY AND TENNESSEE

Woodlands Nature Station at Land Between the Lakes

Get up close and personal with the natural world at our environmental education attraction, Woodlands Nature Station. Nestled in the woods between Honker and Hematite Lakes, the Nature Station serves as a gateway to the 8,500-acre Nature Watch Area. The friendly staff also serves as our “go to” specialists for wildlife viewing throughout Land Between the Lakes.

Hours

  • • Woodlands Nature Station is Open (last entry ticket sold at 4:30pm):
  • • April- October, 7 days a week from 10am-5pm
  • • March & November, Wednesday - Sunday from 10am-5pm
  • • Closed: December-February and Thanksgiving Day

Contact

Admission

  • • Ages 16 and over $7
  • • Ages 15 and under: free
  • • Higher rates may apply to special events

Go Native with Nature!

Our naturalists offer fun and educational programs to help you discover our native animals, wildlife habitats, native plants and gardens, and conservation efforts. Check out our calendar of events on this page, or call us to find out which animals, insects, plants, or habitat we will feature the day of your visit: 270-924-2299.

Take a Walk on the Wildlife Side

It’s prime growing season for grasses, flowers, and babies in the prairie. During the hottest days, both elk and bison seek relief by finding shade trees or taking a dip in a pond. You’ll find these large animals to be most active between sunrise and sunset. If you are visiting during summer, you might want to visit the prairie just after sunrise and right before sunset. Take caution when in the presence of bison during breeding season from July to September. Bulls can be especially aggressive at this time.

Staff and Guest Guided Tours

  • • Eagle Van Tours | January-February
  • Summer Outreach Programs | May-August
  • • Sunset Canoe Trips | May-September
  • • Kayak Tours | May-October
  • • Photo Tours | Throughout the year
  • • Trail and Nature Watch Intros | Throughout the year
  • Outreach Programs | Year-Round
  • Birthday Parties | Year-round
  • • Please note that the Nature Station will no longer be renting canoes and kayaks. Guided canoe and kayak programs at the Nature Station will continue. Kayak and canoe rentals are available seasonally (weather dependent) at Energy Lake Campground.

Bring the Nature Station to You

Did you know that you can bring the Woodlands Nature Station to your site with educational outreach programs? Live animals, natural history, event booths, and more! Programs feature rescued, native wildlife and can be offered in-person or virtual. Naturalists can travel up to 80 miles. Prices start at $195. Learn more.

Volunteer with the Nature Station

The Forest Service partners with Friends of Land Between the Lakes to bring you the interpretive programs, wildlife care, and trained naturalists at the Nature Station. The Nature Station Gift Shop supports these efforts. To volunteer, call 270-924-2007. To find out more about our Friends Group and other volunteer opportunities, visit the Friends of Land Between the Lakes site.

Nature Station Calendar of Events

Special Events 2024