SEE A RECONSTRUCTED PRAIRIE HOMESTEAD AT THE PLAINS CONSERVATION CENTER

Technology is great, but there’s something about reconnecting with nature that's difficult to fully describe. This is what conservation centers help us remember. They preserve the nature around us and the history before us so that we can learn from and enjoy it all both today and in the future. The Plains Conservation Center is a great example of this, as the beautiful mountain prairie provides its guests with a variety of wildlife to enjoy, stunning views, and ample space to take in nature. Get to know PCC Aurora a bit better and plan your visit the next time you hear the call of the wild.

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What Is the Plains Conservation Center?

A nature preserve and educational center, the Plains Conservation Center has a replica of a pioneer village and tipi camp where you can see how colonists and Plains Native Americans lived in the late 1800s. The reconstructed prairie homestead features a Cheyenne camp and is a popular place for public events. In addition to its historical relevance and capacity for hosting events, there are many different events that take place here throughout the year. The PCC is also a recreational hotspot featuring luscious landscapes and exciting opportunities to get outdoors. The prairie covers more than 1,100 acres and offers spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and trails through the historic countryside. Among the wildlife visitors can see are coyotes, eagles, pronghorns, and more. Visitors can enjoy the trails for free, but there are programs available with guides for a fee. The PCC is a place of conservation and exploration for Aurora and the surrounding areas. You can find the Plains Conservation Center in Aurora, CO, located around 20 mins from Buckley AFB. This is a great place to go to learn more about the history of the region, but it’s also an excellent place to exercise, reconnect with nature, or just take in the beautiful views available.

Where To Go and What To Know

Before you head out to the Plains Conservation Center in Aurora, Colorado, we have you covered with some helpful tips and information. The PCC is a beautiful place for people of all ages to enjoy. Located at 21901 E. Hampden Ave., Aurora, CO 80013, here’s what you should know to get the most out of your experience when visiting:

• Summer hours for the PCC are Monday through Thursday from 6:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Fridays from 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
• Visitor center hours in the summer are Wednesday through Friday from noon until 4:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
• The trails are for walking only. No dogs, no bikes, and no horses are allowed.
• SCFD free days provide wagon tours of the homestead, an opportunity to view wildlife, and demonstrations from HawkQuest featuring live birds such as owls, eagles, and falcons.

Plains Conservation Center Events

Denver Botanic Gardens manages the Plains Conservation Center, helping preserve the history while pushing a variety of cultural programs throughout the year. You’ll find a host of educational, artistic, and cultural activities at the Plains Conservation Center. This includes things such as the Agriculture Festival, which provides a local farmers’ market, tours, education about sustainable eating, food trucks, and more. No matter how many times you go, there’s always something new to discover and to learn. Plan your trip to the Plains Conservation Center for an experience unique to Aurora, CO.

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Image: Zenhaus | Wikimedia Commons