Welcome to River Bend Nature Center!

Whether you're a newcomer or a frequent visitor, our website will help you to discover all the beauty and wonder that River Bend has to offer.

River Bend Nature Center is located on 80 acres of natural area along the banks of the Root River in Racine, Wisconsin. Our forests, fields and wetlands provide habitats for many different plant and wildlife communities, as well as many recreational opportunities for hikers, cross-country skiers, paddlers, bird watchers and all students of nature.

As a program of the YWCA of Racine, we offer a host of educational programs and seasonal events. Our mission is to help people of all ages learn to live more harmoniously and joyously with the natural world. We reach over 20,000 children every year through school field trips, in-class presentations and summer day camps. We also offer seasonal hikes and activities, including a maple sugaring event in April, canoe and kayaking trips on the Root River, cross-country skiing, teambuilding and scouting programs, birthday parties, and other building rentals.

Hiking trails are FREE to the public 7 days a week during open hours. Fees and registration generally apply to River Bend programs and events. Please no pets or picnics on the trails.