Is Peace Valley Nature Center the same as Peace Valley Park?

No. While Peace Valley Nature Center is located within Peace Valley Park, the two serve different purposes.

Peace Valley Nature Center is a 750-acre wildlife preserve dedicated to environmental education, habitat conservation, and passive recreation. It features natural surface hiking trails, a Visitor Center, Bird Blind, rain garden, educational exhibits, and year-round nature programs.

Peace Valley Park encompasses the larger county park surrounding Lake Galena and includes boating, fishing, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, athletic fields, and the paved Bike & Hike Trail. Activities are managed and administered by Bucks County Parks & Recreation.

What are the Visitor Center hours?

The Visitor Center is generally open Tuesday through Sunday during regular business hours. Hours may vary seasonally or during holidays, so please check our website  or social media before your visit.

Is there an admission fee?

No. Admission to the Nature Center and use of the hiking trails are free. Some educational programs and special events require advance registration and may have a participation fee.

Is the Nature Center suitable for young children?

Absolutely! Families are encouraged to visit. The Visitor Center features interactive exhibits, a children's discovery area, seasonal activities, self-guided scavenger hunts, and the Nature Play Zone designed to inspire young explorers.

Do I need to register for programs?

Many programs have limited enrollment and require advance registration. Visit our online Events Calendar for upcoming programs and registration information.

Where can I watch birds?

Our Bird Blind is one of the best places in Bucks County to observe birds year-round. Visitors can also enjoy bird feeders outside the Visitor Center windows and explore a variety of bird-friendly habitats throughout the preserve. Click here to download our species list.

How long are the trails?

The Nature Center features several miles of natural surface hiking trails that range from easy woodland walks to longer loops through forests, meadows, wetlands, and along the shoreline of Lake Galena. Trail maps are available inside the Visitor Center or can be downloaded here.

Can I visit during the winter?

Yes! Every season offers something unique. Winter is an excellent time for birdwatching, animal tracking, peaceful hikes, and enjoying the warmth of the Visitor Center while observing birds at the feeders.

Where should I park?

Free parking is available in the Peace Valley Nature Center parking lot adjacent to the Visitor Center.

Are restrooms available?

Yes. Public restrooms are available inside the Visitor Center during normal park operating hours. Additionally, port-a-lets can be found in our parking lots.

Is the Nature Center accessible?

Accessible parking and accessible Visitor Center amenities are available. Most hiking trails are natural surfaces with uneven terrain. Please contact us before your visit if you have specific accessibility questions.

NATURE CENTER RULES

County Ordinance 170 (as amended by Ordinance 174)

Can I bring my dog?

To protect wildlife and preserve the experience for all visitors, dogs and other pets are not permitted on the Nature Center's hiking trails or within the wildlife preserve.

Leashed dogs are welcome on the paved Bike & Hike Trail around Lake Galena.

Are bicycles permitted on the Nature Center trails?

No. Bicycles are not permitted on the Nature Center's natural surface trails. Cyclists are welcome to enjoy the paved Bike & Hike Trail.

Can I collect flowers, plants, rocks, feathers, or other natural items?

No. Please leave everything as you found it. Collecting natural materials is prohibited by County Ordinance to protect wildlife habitat and ensure future visitors can enjoy the preserve.

May I fly a drone?

Drone use is not permitted within the Nature Center wildlife preserve without prior authorization.

Can I feed the wildlife?

No. Feeding wildlife can harm animals, spread disease, and alter their natural behaviors. Please enjoy wildlife by observing from a respectful distance.

Can I picnic at the Nature Center?

Picnicking is not permitted within Peace Valley Nature Center or the wildlife preserve. This policy helps protect wildlife, maintain the natural character of the preserve, and minimize food-related impacts on animals.

Visitors looking to enjoy a picnic are encouraged to use one of the many picnic areas or reservable pavilions located throughout nearby Peace Valley Park.

Can I photograph wildlife?

Absolutely! Amateur photography is encouraged. Please stay on designated trails, respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance, and avoid disturbing nesting or feeding animals.

PEACE VALLEY PARK QUESTIONS

I have questions about boating or fishing on Lake Galena.

Boating and fishing are only permitted on the southwest portion of Lake Galena and are not permitted near the Nature Center on the northeast end of the lake. This protected area serves as a wildlife preserve.

For information about boating, fishing, launch permits, or boat rentals, please visit Bucks County Parks & Recreation or call 215-757-0571.

Where can I purchase a boat launch permit?

Launch permits are available through Bucks County Parks & Recreation or at the Peace Valley Park Boat Rental.

How do I reserve a picnic pavilion?

Picnic pavilion reservations are managed by Bucks County Parks & Recreation. Please visit their website or call 215-757-0571 for availability and reservations.

WILDLIFE QUESTIONS

I found an injured or orphaned wild animal. What should I do?

Please contact Aark Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center at 215-249-1938 for guidance. Do not touch or move wildlife unless instructed by a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, and please do not bring animals to the Nature Center.

GET INVOLVED

Can I volunteer?

Yes! Volunteers play an important role in supporting Peace Valley Nature Center through habitat restoration, education, visitor services, special events, and community science projects. Visit our Volunteer page to learn about current opportunities.

Do you have a gift shop?

Yes. Our Nature Store offers field guides, nature-themed gifts, children's books, educational toys, locally inspired merchandise, and more. Every purchase helps support environmental education, habitat restoration, and conservation efforts at Peace Valley Nature Center.

How can I support Peace Valley Nature Center?

There are many ways to help protect and enhance the Nature Center:

• Become a member  of the Friends of Peace Valley Nature Center.
• Volunteer your time.
• Attend programs and special events.
• Shop in the Nature Store.
• Make a tax-deductible  donation.

Every contribution helps connect people and nature while protecting the preserve for future generations.