The History of the Cincinnati Nature Center

One of the many trails at the Cincinnati Nature Center. For more information, visit cincynature.org.

For years, Stanley M Rowe wanted to create a place where children could learn about, and appreciate nature. In 1965, the Cincinnati Nature Center was created and his vision came true. With the help of the National Audubon Society, Stanley was able to get 175 acres of land from Carl and Mary Kippendorf in Clermont County. This land became the first location of the Cincinnati Nature Center called Rowe Woods.

After 2 years of adding buildings, making trails, and perfecting Stanley's vision, Rowe Woods Nature Center was opened to the public Sunday April 16, 1967. The original Kippendorf’s home was turned into the first visitor center where people could get maps and participate in other activities. Stanley Rowe was determined to make this a place where children would feel welcome. The founders believed that kids needed to have a personal experience in nature. This also helped me as a kid. I would go to the nature center with my family often and enjoyed spending time outside in a place other than my backyard.

In 1973, the chairman of Procter and Gamble and his wife Camila, donated their long branch farm to the nature center. This became the second Cincinnati nature center location, one being Rowe woods, the other being Long Branch Farm in Goshen. In 1975, only 10 years after opening, the nature center had 3214 members and 1200 acres in both locations. 30 years later, the Nature Center bought 235 acres next to Rowe Woods, originally owned by Grace Groesbeck, a friend of the Kippendorfs. This land expanded the nature center and allowed for more visitors.

All together today, the nature center has almost 1800 acres including the Long Branch Farm and Rowe woods. It’s a popular place for communities in Clermont County and it’s even one of the top ten nature centers in the country. The nature center also offers many camps, event venues, and tours. Stanley M Rowe’s dream of creating a place children can learn, appreciate, and explore nature, came true. The Cincinnati Nature Center is continuing to thrive, 58 years later.