Jack’s Pond Nature Center reopens at Jack’s Pond Park

The renovated space offers nine themed classrooms

San Marcos nature center at Jack’s Pond Park

Growing minds in the Jack’s Pond Park Nature Center.

Photo via @sanmarcoscity

Jack’s Pond Park in San Marcos (aka San Parkos) is blooming with curiosity. After being closed for nearly three years, Jack’s Pond Nature Center has reopened.

The little red barn is recognized as a destination for school field trips, but was forced to close amid the pandemic. During this time, it underwent renovations with assistance from the Friends of San Marcos nonprofit.

The new complex has nine classrooms and will offer hands-on classes geared toward elementary-aged students that focus on plants and animals native to the area. The rooms are themed to cover topics like nocturnal animals, trails, conservation efforts, and local history.

The center is typically open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., but since it’s operated by volunteers, hours may change. You can find out more about volunteer opportunities in San Marcos here.

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