Mary Vagle Nature Center
Welcome to Our Place
Located in south Fontana at the foot of the Jurupa Hills, the Mary Vagle Nature Center is a natural refuge in the midst of an urban landscape. Here you can enjoy a walk along the nature trail winding around the pond, spot what is currently blooming in our native gardens, or venture inside and discover exhibits of local plants, animals, geology and history. The Nature Center offers an oasis for both old and young to explore, investigate and nurture their curiosity about the outdoors.
Our Programs
Mary Vagle Nature Center offers a range of programs to meet the needs of regional educators, scouts, families and community groups. All our programs incorporate a hands-on, place-based approach to learning. Program options include:
Look What's Happening
During the first two weeks of October we have noticed a large amount of monarch butterfly caterpillars feeding on the milkweed plants that we plant in our butterfly gardens. We captured some of the metamorphosis process in pictures and video but come by and see for yourself up close in our gardens.
Planning Your Visit
Contact
11501 Cypress Ave.
Fontana, CA 92337
(909) 349-6994
Hours of Operation
Wednesday - Sunday
12:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Programs for schools, scouts and community groups can be scheduled in advance for any day of the week.
The pond and grounds are open from sunrise to sunset everyday. Visitors are welcome to enjoy pond-side picnics, wildlife viewing and hiking during these times.
Admission & Parking
General admission to the Nature Center grounds and exhibits is free. Free parking is available on site.
Directions
From I-10: Exit Sierra Ave. (in Fontana) and travel south on Sierra Ave. Drive 1.3 miles and turn right at signal on Jurupa Ave. Drive 0.5 miles and turn left on Cypress Ave. Drive 0.2 miles and arrive at Mary Vagle Nature Center on left.
From Rt. 60: Exit Valley Way. (Valley Way will become Armstrong Road). Drive 1 mile and turn left (north) on Sierra Ave. Drive 2 miles on Sierra Ave. then turn left at signal on Jurupa Ave. and follow directions above.