Nature Center

The Willow River Nature Center is your park hub for discovery, hands-on learning and family fun! Conveniently located just steps from the beach, picnic grounds and natural playground, the nature center offers visitors an interactive look into the history, geology and ecology of the St. Croix Valley.

Things to do

• Inside the main exhibit space, step into a cozy room filled with interactive bird displays, stunning native wildlife mounts and geology exhibits that highlight the story of Willow Falls and the unique landscape of the region.
• For those ready to explore outdoors, we offer hands-on activity kits at the front desk, including birding backpack rentals, geocaching materials and Wisconsin Explorer Program activity booklets for kids.
• Participate in upcoming events at the park and attend educational programs managed by the Friends of the Willow River and Kinnickinnic State Parks. Find events.
• Browse through the gift shop managed by the Friends Group. Every purchase made at the gift shop directly funds the Friends' mission. When you pick up official park apparel, gifts or souvenirs, your support directly powers our educational programming, community events and park improvements.

Educational Programming

Connected directly to the nature center, the classroom serves as a flexible space for naturalists to host workshops, group programs and classes for all ages. Find upcoming classes on the Friends of the Willow River and Kinnickinnic State Parks website.

Interested in bringing a school group to the Willow River Nature Center? Please contact our lead naturalist and nature center coordinator at naturecenter@willowkinnifriends.org to confirm availability.

Friends Group

The nature center serves as the headquarters for the Friends of Willow River and Kinnickinnic State Parks, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting, preserving and enhancing these cherished public lands. Established in 1990, this organization funds and manages daily nature center operations, coordinates vital stewardship projects, like trail maintenance, habitat restoration and invasive species control, and delivers engaging environmental education for visitors of all ages. Everything the Friends Group does is driven by local volunteers, community support and grant funding. Those interested in volunteering or joining the friends group can visit the Friends of the Willow River and Kinnickinnic State Parks website to learn more.

Working Towards a New Nature Center

Thanks to overwhelming community support and growing participation in park programs, the Friends have outgrown the current nature center space. To meet this increasing demand and expand educational reach, the organization is spearheading a capital campaign to construct a new interpretive center at Willow River State Park. This expanded facility will accommodate larger groups, enhance year-round programming and inspire park visitors for generations to come. Learn more on the Friends of the Willow River and Kinnickinnic State Parks Nature Center webpage.

Nature Center Hours

• Operating hours vary based on staff and volunteer availability, but the center typically aims to welcome guests daily from noon to 4 p.m. Contact the nature center at 715-386-9340 for current hours.