Kreher Preserve & Nature Center

The Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, formerly known as the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve, is managed as an outreach program of the Auburn University School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences and operates as a not-for-profit under the Auburn University Foundation.

The Kreher Preserve and Nature Center (KPNC) is a 120-acre track, comprising seven natural habitats, including special points of interest such as the Longleaf Pine Demonstration Forest, Wildflower Trail, Boulder Ridge, Butterfly and Vegetable Gardens, Hidden Falls, Turtle Pond, and the old Homestead. There are four cover types found on the property including pine, oak/hickory, bottomland hardwood, and mixed pine/hardwood. A conveniently located nature playground invites children to explore a play space offering a rich, naturalistic experience complete with mounds, ditches, logs, tunnels, fallen trees, boulders and some creative structures including a beaver lodge, tree house and eagles nest.

Interpretive kiosks are located throughout the Kreher Preserve and feature points of interest and educational information. Thirty hiking trails span over five miles through various habitats that offer terrain to interest both novice and experienced hikers. Benches can be found along most trails. Visitors may view the preserve’s online interactive trail map or find a trail and species guide located at the front entrance and pavilion for self-guided tours. The KPNC has much to offer for all ages, including ongoing environmental education programs and workshops.

The Kreher Preserve and Nature Center offers improved facilities and visitor amenities within the property, including the Frank Allen Turner Amphitheater, a wheel-chair accessible 150-seat multi-level meeting area and fire pit, and a covered educational pavilion. The amphitheater is often used for educational programs, special events, and other activities. The pavilion is located near the amphitheater and offers a shady place to rest, bird watch and, often during the weekends, view live exhibits of local wildlife such as turtles, frogs and native snakes. Handicap restrooms are available at the pavilion, amphitheater, and nature playground. Drinking fountains are located at the playground and amphitheater. A picnic area with multiple tables is located across from the nature playground and nearby the parking area. Interpretive kiosks, observation blinds and viewing platforms are available throughout the property and along its boardwalks and trails.

The Preserve features a bog garden with many varieties of unique environmentally threatened carnivorous pitcher plants. The Preserve is collaborating with university herpetologists to restore the endangered Indigo Snake in the state of Alabama. The Auburn University Southeastern Raptor Center uses the Preserve to release rehabilitated raptors including owls, hawks, eagles, and ospreys back into their wild habitats.

No biking, smoking, or pets allowed on the grounds or trails. Alcohol prohibited. All visitors are asked to “Leave No Trace” and use receptacles provided for trash.

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center
3301 School of Forestry & Wildlife Sciences Building
Auburn, AL 36849