Six thousand acres of bottomland hardwood forest sit on the south side of Dallas, and most visitors never find out. Trinity River Audubon Center is the front door to it, and one of the closest places to Game Room Oasis for a proper day outdoors.
Trails wind through wetlands, prairie and forest, with stretches of boardwalk that make parts of the landscape easier to explore for a group with different ages and abilities. Herons, egrets, turtles and other wildlife are among the things to watch for along the way.
The land has a remarkable second life. Once used as an illegal dump, it was cleaned up and restored as wildlife habitat. Worth telling the children — it is a better story than most nature reserves have.
Earlier in the day is generally better for wildlife and more comfortable during the warmer months. Spring and autumn are especially pleasant times to explore. Check current hours and trail conditions before you go, wear comfortable shoes and take water — the trails can feel longer than they look on the map.
