Jennings Environmental Education Center
00 review2951 PROSPECT ROAD, SLIPPERY ROCK, Pennsylvania, 16057, United States
Jennings Environmental Education Center
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
About this campground
Discover a rare pocket of prairie wilderness at Jennings Environmental Education Center, where 20 acres of waving grasses and wildflowers create an unexpected oasis in Pennsylvania's landscape. This living classroom serves as a sanctuary for distinctive prairie plants and the elusive, endangered massasauga rattlesnake, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into one of the state's most unique ecosystems.
Jennings Environmental Education Center is an educational preserve with no provision for camping.
Historical SignificanceStep into Pennsylvania's conservation history at Jennings, the Commonwealth's pioneering nature reserve and the first in the state established specifically to protect a single plant species. Today, this remarkable sanctuary stands as Pennsylvania's only public and protected prairie, preserving a vanishing ecosystem that once stretched across vast portions of North America.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere prairie meets forest, Jennings creates a stunning tapestry of contrasting ecosystems. Wander through sun-drenched meadows ablaze with the purple spikes of blazing star flowers, then slip into cool woodland shade along meandering creekside paths. The harmonious blend of open grasslands and dense forest attracts a symphony of native birds, making every trail a journey through diverse habitats teeming with life.
Geological RegionExperience the extraordinary convergence of prairie and forest ecosystems at Jennings Environmental Education Center, home to Pennsylvania's sole public prairie preserve. This 20-acre grassland sanctuary showcases an impressive collection of distinctive prairie plants while providing critical habitat for the endangered massasauga rattlesnake, creating a unique geological and ecological treasure unlike anywhere else in the Commonwealth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe Jennings Environmental Education Center does not offer campsites.
Sites PrivacyThe center does not have campsites; therefore, privacy descriptions are not applicable.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.
Groups
The center does not offer group camping facilities.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The Jennings Environmental Education Center offers a range of activities focused on nature and education. These include hiking, interpretive programs, and birdwatching. The main attraction is the prairie ecosystem, which is home to unique plants and the endangered massasauga rattlesnake.
Hiking
There are several short trails with little elevation change, making them suitable for all ages. According to Nathan Burtner, 'The park features a number of short trails with little elevation change. Only the North Country Trail leaves the park.' Another user, Abigail Eason, mentions, 'My fam loves to hike and explore the trails in and around Jennings Environmental Education Center.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity at the park. Terri Thompson describes it as 'a haven for birds,' where visitors can call in owls at night and capture Pennsylvania native birds with their cameras. The prairie area is also home to the endangered massasauga rattlesnake.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park is dedicated to environmental education and interpretation. Programs are available for children, teachers, and the general public. Terri Thompson recommends checking Facebook for events hosted by the Education Center.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned for this location.Water Sports
The park does not mention any non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Quiet hours are Noise prohibited between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of the endangered massasauga rattlesnake in the prairie ecosystem.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific mention of trash and recycling facilities in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresCreekside trails available for nature exploration.
Campground Map
2951 PROSPECT ROAD, SLIPPERY ROCK, Pennsylvania, 16057, United States
Driving directionsThe center is 12 miles north of Butler, on PA 528. The office is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and some weekends. Call ahead for the weekend schedule. The grounds are open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week, for hiking and other nature-related activities.
The park is accessible via PA 528, 12 miles north of Butler. The roads are presumed to be paved and easily navigable year-round, but no specific mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain was found.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Jennings Environmental Education Center has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the Jennings Environmental Education Center as a well-maintained park with diverse trails and educational opportunities. Visitors frequently mention the prairie ecosystem and the center's commitment to conservation.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the well-maintained trails, the prairie ecosystem, and the educational programs. Terri Thompson calls it 'my go-to haven when I need fresh air and nature,' while Mitchell Pfeiffer...
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Common Concerns
There are no notable complaints mentioned in the provided user reviews.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend exploring the prairie area and attending events hosted by the Education Center. Nathan Burtner notes that wildflowers are more prominent in the spring.
Seasonal Insights
Spring is highlighted as an ideal time for observing wildflowers in the prairie area.
Camper Quotes
1. 'My go-to haven when I need fresh air and nature!' - Terri Thompson
2. 'Perfect for young families.' - Nathan Burtner
3. 'Check out the mine subsidence project.' - Mitchell Pfeiffer
Site-Specific Reviews
As there are no campsites, site-specific reviews are not applicable.
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
There are no detailed reviews about pet policies or experiences.
Last updated August 10, 2025