Please note: Conservation contractors will be present and  continue work on 75 acres of invasive plant removal through August 2021. Bush Honeysuckle is a serious threat to JCPRD natural areas and visitor safety. JCPRD is tackling the problem with a multiyear restoration plan involving park staff, conservation contractors, and volunteers.

We’re asking the public to avoid the South Trail at EMNC when trail closures are present. The trail closures will be rolling and we expect the first phase of work to be completed in a three week period. The public is asked to adhere to trail closures and respect signage warning of forestry equipment and contractors present within the work area.

Visitors are encouraged to use the Bittersweet Trail, Upper/Lower Ridge Trail, SW Trail, and the Fire Road Trail while the South Trail is undergoing restoration efforts.

Warning signs and barricades will be posted at all intersections and trail entry points indicating the area closures.  

About Ernie Miller Park

A 116-acre nature park consisting of a diverse range of habitats including tallgrass prairies, upland meadows, bottomland forest, a small stream, three miles of nature trails to explore, a picnic shelter, and nature center.

 Please note: due to the nature of the park, bicycles and pets are not allowed.

Ernie Miller Nature Center

Ernie Miller Nature Park is home to the Ernie Miller Nature Center which provides a wide range of educational and nature based programs and experiences. The nature center is viewed by many as a laboratory of sorts for learning, understanding, and admiring nature. Patrons will discover more about plants, animals and history by visiting the center's new exhibit gallery which features live animal displays and interactive exhibits.

The nature center also features a 500 gallon aquarium showcasing native stream fish, a wildlife viewing room overlooking a water feature and bird feeders. The nature center also has a gift shop with books, treats, and other items for our nature enthusiasts.

Visitors will also view a range of birds from the center's lobby as they visit the feeders and discover more about the park's wildlife and history through exhibits and a diorama. For more about the nature center, visit the Ernie Miller Nature Center page.

Park Shelter

Ernie Miller Nature Park has one large shelter. The shelter is perfect for parties, family reunions, corporate events, and weddings! To ensure the use of a shelter, reservations are recommended.

For shelter details and to reserve online, view the Subfacilities section below.

To check availability or to reserve a shelter online, visit the reservation and rentals page, call (913) 831-3359, Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., or visit our Registration Office in Antioch Park.

Park Police & Safety

In an emergency, dial 911.  To reach the Park Police Dispatch, call (913) 782-0720. For additional information and safety tips, visit JCPRD's Park Police page.