About River Bend Nature Center

Since 1978, we’ve been stewarding this unique 743-acre natural habitat including restored prairies, forests, the Straight River, ponds and 10 miles of multi-use trails in Faribault, Minnesota.

Our Mission

River Bend Nature Center's mission is to help people discover, enjoy, understand and preserve the incredible natural world that surrounds us all. We accomplish our mission through offering youth and adult education, public events, and opportunities for recreation and land stewardship.

Support Our Mission

Programs

We offer classes, field trips and annual public events to invite the community to enjoy and learn more about the beauty of nature.

View Schedule

Explore the Lands

Trails are open 6am to 10pm each day, and there is so much to do. See the different landscapes by car, bike or hike.

Trails & Habitats

Fun for All Seasons

Our trails are free to the public to run, bike or hike in the warmer months and cross country ski or snowshoe in the winter.

Seasonal Recreation

Open to All

Membership is not required to come visit, and we have options for families, small children, older adults and people of all abilities.

Accessibility

"Nature education is done best in the out-of-doors rather than in the classroom."

- Orwin A. Rustad, Founder

Nonprofit Organization

River Bend Nature Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supported by income from memberships, event registrations and grants. Annual reports are available upon request. We are not a city park and depend on the community for support. Help us by becoming a member, volunteering, attending an event or making a donation.

Become a Member