Licking Park District

William C. Kraner Nature Center

10380 Fairview Road
5.5 miles southeast of Newark off of Linnville Road

Current Operating Hours

Monday - Wednesday: Closed
Thursday - Sunday: 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
 

Thanks to a very generous donation from Mr. William C. Kraner of Newark, the Licking Park District was able to open this facility in July of 2001. The 2800 sq. ft. William C. Kraner Nature Center complements the 425 acres of natural area offered by the Taft Reserve of which it is a part. The Nature Center is the final ingredient that allows the Licking Park District to become a full service provider by bringing the miracles of nature within the grasp of the physically challenged. With this completely accessible center, an aging population that may no longer have physical ability to explore tranquil woodlands has other opportunities to explore nature. A child confined to a wheelchair will have the opportunity to study the benefits of a wetland. This carefully designed center meets these needs.

Nature Center Amenities

Interpretive natural and cultural history history displays where children and adults can get "up close and personal" with
Licking County’s "wild side."

The Rookery Gift Shop.

Research library and reservable conference room.

A unique hands-on replicated archaeological dig site for kids and adults.

"Wild Side" Exploration Kits for families, community groups and other visitors.

A Hopewell Indian Burial Replica and model of the historic Rutledge Burial Mound.

Hands-on take-home craft station

Bird watching window

Special events and programs during the year.

Satellite park office

Shelter rentals

A future endeavor includes horseback riding stables.

For further information please contact the nature center at (740) 587-2535 or e-mail at mail@lickingparkdistrict.com.