Frequently Asked Questions
No. Both the nature center building and the trails in Chisholm Creek Park are FREE to enjoy to the public.
The trails and Chisholm Creek Park are open dawn to dusk.
The Great Plains Nature Center building is open 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and is closed on all federal holidays.
The Owl's Nest Gift Shop located within the nature center is open 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism offices are open 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday.
No. We do not allow pets on the trails as Chisholm Creek Park is a designated Wichita Wild Habitat Area and is home to an abundance of wildlife which may be harmed or bothered by pets. Please help us keep our park clean and healthy for wildlife by keeping pets at home.
There are multiple dog parks in the city available for use for free and most city parks allow leashed dogs. If you live near Chisholm Creek Park and need a resource near you North Chisholm Creek Park just off Woodlawn is a great option!
Find out more:
Wichita Dog Parks
What is a Wichita Wild Habitat Area?
No. The Great Plains Nature Center is not a licensed rehabilitation facility so we cannot take in injured or orphaned animals.
No. Only pedestrians are allowed on the trails within Chisholm Creek Park for the safety of all visitors. The K-96 Bike Path does run around the park and allows bikes.
Picnic shelters are reserved through the City of Wichita.
Picnic Reservation Information or call: (316) 268-4361
No. Please respect the flora and fauna you are visiting while in the park by leaving nothing but footprints, and taking nothing but photos.
Island Pond is the only part of the park that we allow fishing. It is catch and release only and artificial lures only. No live bait.
You must have a fishing license if you are 16 years of age or older.
It is stocked with channel catfish, bluegill, largemouth bass.
Our Friends of the Great Plains Nature Center members help support our educational mission with monetary donations and get access to special Friends-only events.
Yes! We offer a variety of public programs which you can join or you can schedule a program with one of our Naturalists through our Program Coordinator, Lyndzee Rhine.
If you would like to bring a large group out and don't want a program, please still let us know so we can avoid conflicting schedules.
There are a variety of volunteer opportunities at the nature center and help is always appreciated!
Yes! They are available for purchase in our gift shop during select hours, please call ahead to see when they will be available: (316) 683-5499 ext. 111
You will need:
- valid government photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc)
- cash or check to process payment
There are several different passes available.
No. We do not have an event space for public rental.