FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE NATURE CENTER... |
Where is Okeeheelee Nature Center located and what are the nature center's hours of operations?
The Okeeheelee Nature Center is located one mile inside Okeeheelee Park [on north side of Forest Hill Blvd. between Jog Road and the Florida Turnpike]. You can refer to this Okeeheelee Park map for the exact location of the Nature Center after you enter the park: Okeeheelee Map.
The Nature Center is open Wednesday - Friday: 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm, Saturday: 10:00 am - 4:30 pm and closed Sunday–Tuesday. It is also closed on holidays observed by Palm Beach County.
When visiting Okeeheelee Nature Center, please remember the following are NOT permitted on Nature Center grounds:
- Pets (even if leashed!)
- Food (except for sanctioned events).
- Alcohol or smoking or tobacco products (at any time!)
- Jogging, running, speed walking, biking, or skating
- Fishing
How do I sign up for programs or activities offered at Okeeheelee Nature Center?
The Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Department and the Nature Center offer several programs or activities at Okeeheelee Nature Center...
Click this link to register: Register for activities at Okeeheelee Nature Center.
Animal Encounters: Want to meet a live owl? Deer? Alligator? ONC hosts programs available for toddlers through senior adults, and each program is tailored to the audience to allow maximum interactive benefit. Programs include: School and Specialty Group Field Trips, Live Animal Presentations, Outdoor Adventures, Animal Feedings, Nature Walks, and Special Events.
For program details and to make reservations, please visit our website or call the nature center at 561-233-1400.
How can I volunteer at Okeeheelee Nature Center?
To volunteer at Okeeheelee Nature Center, visit the Palm Beach County website to search current openings: Volunteer Opportunities. Applying for a long term position is a two part process. After your application is submitted you will receive a confirmation email which will include a link to our background check site. The background check must be completed in order to be considered for a volunteer position.
If you are ages 15 to 17, you are eligible for the Okee-Teen Volunteer Program which aims to increase environmental knowledge and encourage teens to develop essential work skills that will help them reach their educational and career goals. Teens will have the opportunity to work hands-on with our ambassador animals, develop public speaking skills, make new friends, and secure references for scholarships and internships, all while earning community service hours. Participants can take advantage of leadership and career exploration opportunities by taking on special projects and, once safe to do so, attending presentations and trainings.
Remember that you can also serve by joining and becoming an active member of the Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center and assist it in supporting the staff and programs of the Nature Center. To find out how, email us at okeeheeleefriends@gmail.com
What do I do if I find an injured animal or abandoned baby animal?
Okeeheelee Nature Center is NOT a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center, and cannot accept injured or baby animals. Please contact one of these agencies and follow their instructions:
- Busch Wildlife Sanctuary (Jupiter) - (561) 575-3399
- Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital (Coral Springs) - (954) 752-9453
- South Florida Wildlife Center (Fort Lauderdale) - (954) 524-4302
- McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary (Acreage) - (561) 790-2116
- Kenny Brown’s Wildlife Rescue & Release (Lake Worth) - (561) 628-5363
- Duck Haven Duck Rescue (Margate) - (954) 979-5044
What is Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center's privacy policy?
Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center recognizes the importance of privacy. You can find Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center's privacy policy here.