aventuro Back to map A
Parks

Brukner Nature Center

4.7 · 831 reviews
A quiet and immersive woodland environment.
Brukner Nature Center, 5995 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Troy, OH 45373, United States
Interesting facts
1

The center operates one of the most active wildlife rehabilitation facilities in Ohio.

2

The property is home to an Iddings Long-Term Forest Research Plot, monitoring forest succession.

3

A specialized aviary houses non-releasable birds of prey, including bald eagles, for public viewing.

4

The site includes a diverse range of habitats including secondary-growth forest, swamp, and prairie remnants.

5

The center hosts a massive annual garage sale, which is its largest fundraising event.

6

It manages a Sugar Bush area used for public education on maple syrup production in late winter.

7

The preserve is a designated site on the Ohio Birding Trail.

8

Local volunteers and staff contribute to the regional database of native species sightings.

Overview

Brukner Nature Center is a non-profit environmental education organization located on a 165-acre wooded preserve in Troy, Ohio. It features an Interpretive Center with permanent wildlife exhibits and a nursing room. The grounds contain over six miles of hiking trails that wind through mature forests, tallgrass prairies, and ravines. A unique feature is the on-site wildlife rehabilitation facility, which treats hundreds of injured or orphaned native animals annually. The facility maintains a collection of non-releasable raptors and other indigenous species for educational purposes. Visitors can explore the Iddings Long-Term Forest Research Plot, which tracks ecological changes over time. The center serves as an outdoor laboratory for regional research and conservation efforts. It is situated along the banks of the Stillwater River, providing diverse riparian habitats. The preserve is dedicated to local wildlife preservation and environmental stewardship.

Photo spot

The elevated boardwalk and bird observation deck overlooking the woodland and pond areas.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear suitable for potentially muddy or uneven trail surfaces.

Check the official website for current trail conditions or seasonal closures due to maintenance.

Bring binoculars for better bird watching, as the canopy covers much of the trail area.

What to avoid

Do not bring pets on the hiking trails, as they are prohibited to protect native wildlife.

Good to know

The Interpretive Center is typically closed on Sundays and major holidays.

Etiquette

Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitats; do not feed, touch, or attempt to rehabilitate injured wildlife yourself.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Spring for wildflowers and bird migrations, or autumn for foliage.
Address
Brukner Nature Center, 5995 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Troy, OH 45373, United States
40.016, -84.318
Get directions
Details
Trail lengthOver 6 miles
Wildlife focusRehabilitation and raptor education

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Spring for wildflowers and bird migrations, or autumn for foliage..

The elevated boardwalk and bird observation deck overlooking the woodland and pond areas.

Close by you'll find Treasure Island Park, Lowry Fields, Englewood MetroPark.