Get to Know Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center

Discover the history and purpose of the center, and meet the people who help keep the prairie thriving.

1,160

Acres

240

Bird species

1998

Year established

Audubon established Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center in 1998 on the site of the former O’Brien ranch approximately 20 minutes southwest of Lincoln, Nebraska.

This 1,160-acre tallgrass prairie sanctuary offers over four miles of walking trails, native prairie grasslands, wetlands and ponds, wildflowers and grasses, and beautiful scenic vistas. In its midst more than 235 species of birds, 370 species of plants, and other wildlife dwell side-by-side with historic 19th-century wagon ruts from a cutoff to the Oregon Trail.

Family nature programs, school field trips, special events, and burgeoning attendance resulted in the construction of our visitor center, which opened in 2006. Through educating the public about the value of tallgrass prairie while introducing thousands to its beauty and diversity, we are helping preserve this singular — and very threatened — portion of the plains.

The visitor center blends into the natural setting of Spring Creek Prairie. From its green design to the way its aesthetically understated appearance mirrors nature, the facility brings equal attention to both form and function — and proves that understanding is indeed the first step toward caring responsibly for our native land and all its resources.

Land Acknowledgement

Powwow regalia shown at the Return of the Thunderbirds event. Photo: Brady Karg/Audubon

The treatied and unceded land that Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center currently manages for birds and operates its visitor center upon has a rich history of native peoples living with the land. We recognize that we are not the first land stewards of the tallgrass prairie in southeastern Nebraska. As we continue this legacy of care for the prairie and all the wildlife, plants, water, and people who need it, we acknowledge the history, knowledge, and culture of those who have come before us on the land (Pawnee, Otoe, Missouria, Kansa) and those that work alongside us today (Ponca, Omaha, & Winnebago Tribes of Nebraska). As you enjoy your visit, please take a moment to acknowledge the people on whose sacred land you walk.

Our Staff