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The Prairie Center


category : Nature Centers
The Prairie Center The rich natural history of Kansas has been preserved with 300 acres of native tall grass prairie, woodlands and creeks. The diverse biomes comprise virgin tallgrass prairie, reseeded tallgrass prairie, riparian woodlands, and wetland areas. The center is a suburban island that was farmed until 1968 when an individual purchased the property for educational purposes. Since that time, it has been maintained for education by a private organization. In 1990, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks obtained the property, also to be maintained and improve for education purposes.

The Center boasts a 5-acre lake supporting such species as bluegill, catfish, largemouth bass, and hybrid sunfish. Catch and release fishing in the stream is also encouraged, and a multitude of species are present.

Several miles make up the approximately 6-mile trail system for hiking and cross-country skiing. Visitors hiking these trails must remain on the paths at all times. Trail paths meander through prairie, woodlands, and along creek beds.

Workshops for teachers are given throughout the year, and school groups are welcome on a reservation basis. Limited interpretive programming is available.


Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Address: 26325 Prairie Center Road (135th & Cedar Niles Road).
For more information contact the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks at (913) 894-9113, ext. 13.

Come visit us in Olathe, Kansas

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Lone Elm Campground

Three miles south of Olathe on Lone Elm Road, on the main branch of the Santa Fe Trail, was the site of a spring (now enclosed in a small well)

Olathe, KS Landmarks


Ensor Farm Historical Site and Museum

The barn at the Ensor Farmsite and Museum was constructed in 1890 of rough sawed lumber and wooden pegged beams houses displays of various farm hand tools, school shop projects and other items reflecting the diverse interests of the Ensor family. The architecture of the farmhouse built in 1892

Olathe, KS Museums

The Prairie Center

The rich natural history of Kansas has been preserved with 300 acres of native tall grass prairie, woodlands and creeks. The diverse biomes comprise virgin tallgrass prairie, reseeded tallgrass prairie, riparian woodlands, and wetland areas. The center is a suburban island that was farmed until 1968

Olathe, KS Nature Centers

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm

J.B. Mahaffie purchased a 160-acre tract of ground 1-mile north of the town of Olathe, Kansas along the Santa Fe Trail in 1857. In 1863, J.B. and his wife, Lucinda Mahaffie, contracted to run a stagecoach stop. Serving meals in their cellar, the Mahaffies operated their business until around 1870

Olathe, KS Museums

Things to do Nature Centers near Olathe, KS