
The James Family Discovery Gardens
Come celebrate the beauty and extraordinary biological diversity of the Central Highlands in our accessible Native Botanical Gardens and Nature Center. Experience outdoor learning in a whole new light!
- Accessible Native Habitats
- Guided Walks with Naturalists
- ‘Lens on Learning’ Guidebooks
- Interactive Learning Circles
- Beautiful Outdoor Event Venue
- Children’s Nature Play Area
Visiting the Gardens
Due to the sensitive nature of the plants in the gardens dogs are not allowed. Service dogs welcome.
Discovery Gardens Hours:
8am – 4pm , 7 days a week, year round
Gardens may be closed for icy conditions.
Nature Store Hours:
April – October | 9am – 4pm , Tues – Sat
November – March | 10am – 4pm, Tue – Sat
Program Schedule
On the last Saturday of each month come to the gardens from 9am to noon for our Discovery Saturdays. The Discovery Gardens and Highlands Center trails are a wonderful place to spend your time, but on Discovery Saturdays there will be more to visit, explore, and learn!
Check out our calendar to find upcoming programs and other events happening in the Discovery Gardens and the Highlands Center for Natural History.
Learning Circles
- Gathering Circle
- Grow Native Demo Gardens
- Riparian Riches
- Montane Forests
- Rainwater Harvesting
- Ethnobotanical Gardens
- Secret Nook
- Woodland Wonders
- Graceful Grasslands
- Chaparral Hillsides
- Forest Play

Celebrating the Central Highlands
Experience the wonders of nature in the Highlands Center’s new Discovery Gardens
Stroll or roll along a seasonal creek and through the forest on an accessible paver pathway to discover a variety of Learning Circles. Bring the kids and play in a natural Forest Play area. Listen to birds and sounds of the forest in the Secret Nook or relax in the shade on a comfortable bench.
Need a place for an outdoor event in a quiet, pristine forest setting?
Rent the Ramada within our garden for your wedding or private gathering.




Contact Us
Learn more about our location and site hours.