Menu

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

  • Prairie Learning Center, 9981 Pacific Street | Prairie City, IA 50228
  • Phone: (515) 994-3400
  • Region: East/Northeast
  • Overview
    Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is committed to reconstructing and restoring tallgrass, prairie and oak savanna. Just 20 miles east of Des Moines and nine miles south of Interstate 80, the refuge feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. We welcome you to enjoy a walk on our paved trails or explore our exhibit area, bookstore and movie theater year-round and at no cost!
  • Amenities
    Attraction Information
    General Information
    • Admission Price: Free
    • Group Rates: Free
    • Guides Available:
    • Hours of Operation: The Visitor Center is open Thursday to Saturday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Our five-mile Prairie Wildlife Drive auto tour that enters the bison/elk enclosure, bike lanes along the paved main entry road, and four walking trails (1/2 mile to 2 miles) are open daily, dawn to dusk.
    • Season: Year-round.
    • Self-Guided Tours:
    • Specialty Tours (Ex: Kid-friendly): Like our Facebook page or visit our website for event listings for individuals, groups, children and families. Activities include guided hikes, children's nature programs, and special events! https://www.facebook.com/NealSmithNWR https://www.fws.gov/refuge/neal-smith
    • Tour Times: Visitors can call to find out about scheduled guided tour.
  • Meeting Facilities
    Facility Info
    Meeting Rooms
    • Description The Multi-Purpose Room and Small Conference Room are available for rental from 9am to 4pm at no cost. Neal Smith NWR does however require five hours of stewardship/service to the refuge. This requirement must be completed within six months of rental and may be completed by a group or an individual. The amount of time decreases with larger groups. For example, 10 people could work for 30 minutes and satisfy the requirement (minimum 30 minutes). There are two drop down projection screens, one coffee pot, two sinks, and table and chairs. Guests are responsible for bringing their own projector and laptop. The refuge also has a "trash-in/trash-out" policy, so you will need to bring along bags and take trash with you upon leaving. Outside catering is permitted.
    • Largest Room 1750
    • Total Sq. Ft. 2500
    • Reception Capacity 85
    • A/V Capabilities? true
    • 10 X 10 Booths 10
    • Outside Catering? true
    • Free Parking? true
    • Wireless Internet Available? true
    • Wireless Internet Notes (fees, etc) Password Avail. on Request
    • Number of Rooms 2
    • Classroom Capacity 60
    Multi-Purpose Room
    • Total Sq. Ft.: 1750
    • Width: 35
    • Length: 50
    • Booth Capacity: 10
    • Classroom Capacity: 60
    • Reception Capacity: 85
    Small Conference Room
    • Total Sq. Ft.: 750
    • Width: 25
    • Length: 30
    • Classroom Capacity: 20
    • Reception Capacity: 20
  • Location
    Prairie Learning Center, 9981 Pacific Street | Prairie City, IA 50228