Exchange Nature Center 

bobby with alligator
flying squirrel
groundhog

About the Nature Center

Get your hands wet investigating our salt-water touch tank filled with a variety of different coastal creatures. Explore numerous exhibits of plants and animals indigenous to North Carolina, including live venomous and non-venomous snakes, flying squirrels, talking birds, bears, bobcats and more. Venture into the cave in the lower level where you will find live turtles, nocturnal animal displays and aquariums depicting life along the course of the Neuse River. Souvenirs are available for purchase, including snake skins and other items located in the Planetarium's Gift Shop.

Activities at the Exchange Nature Center

Salt Water Touch Tank

Our salt water touch tank provides an opportunity to see and touch a variety of coastal creatures.
starfish

The Cave

The "Underground Cave" is where you will see a skunk, turtles, iguanas, frogs, crayfish, and aquariums filled with fish from the local Neuse River. Don't forget to visit the World's Most Dangerous Creature!
turtles

Canoes & Kayaks

16 foot Mohawk canoes and various types of kayaks with oars/paddles and life jackets are available for use. For more information, call 252-939-3367.

Wildlife Exhibits

Mount exhibits include bears, deer, turkeys, beavers, snakes and more. You can also see live snakes, venomous and non-venomous, turtles, flying squirrels, birds and more.


Nature Trails


There are many self-guided trails located adjacent to the Neuse River near the campground.
Several people canoeing on a lake.
A small bobcat

Community Fishing Ponds & Piers

The pond is well-stocked with channel catfish through a program developed by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to encourage public access fishing in North Carolina.

License requirements are regulated by NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Anyone over the age of 16 must have an inland fishing license. Anyone under the age may fish without a license in the State of North Carolina. 

To learn more about licensing requirements and programs offered by NC Wildlife Resources Commission please visit the following links:

Required Licensing

Community Fishing Program

Group Tours/Field Trips

Group tours are a great addition to birthday parties or school outings. Full tours include a Nature Walk, Planetarium Show, or Train Ride (which is seasonal). Cost varies dependent on the details of individual booking. Bookings may be customized to fit the needs of any individual group. All areas are handicap accessible.

For more information on times and field trips, contact the Planetarium Director Sarah Bartlett by phone 252-939-3302 or sarah.bartlett@ci.kinston.nc.us . 
group tours