Overview

Located along the Patuxent River between Bowie State University and the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, the Fran Uhler Natural Area features five miles of woodland trails open for hiking, bicycling, and nature study. Visitors can also take the boardwalk loop trail for a closer look at the river. Parking is available at the Bowie State MARC train station Park and Ride.

History

Wildlife biologist Francis Morey Uhler, whose office was near this site, donated funds to purchase the land in 1986. At that time, the property was being used as an illegal trash dump, but with the help of volunteers M-NCPPC restored the area to its pristine beauty. Today, the park is managed with assistance from the Prince George's Audubon Society under the "Adopt-a-Refuge" program. Guided nature/birding hikes are held monthly on Saturday mornings. Visit the Field Trip website for the schedule.