Get a front-row seat to ​nature’s majesty! Tune in to ​our live bear cam for an ​up-close glimpse into the ​fascinating world of our ​black bears.

Tuesday - Sunday 9:00 - 5:00

Did you find a wild animal that needs help?

Remember, a baby’s best chance of survival is when it is cared for by its mother.

Squirrel

Opossum

Fawn

Dauset Trails does not accept birds for rehab. Please refer to the Wildlife Rehabbers List to find your local rehabilitator.

If you need help with an animal, please call 770-775-6798

In the heart of Jackson, Georgia, a hidden gem awaits nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and anyone seeking a connection ​with the great outdoors. Dauset Trails Nature Center, a private, non-profit sanctuary, stands as a testament to the vision of its ​founder, Hampton Daughtry. Established in 1978, the center has blossomed from a humble 400.13-acre donation to a ​sprawling 2000-acre haven, offering a unique blend of environmental education, wildlife care, and outdoor recreation for ​the Butts County community.

Mr. Daughtry's vision was simple yet profound: to provide a sanctuary where young minds could learn from nature. Dauset Trails was born from this desire, becoming a living testament to the transformative power of nature. With nature trails, animal exhibits, bike trails, and horseback riding trails, the center has evolved into an influential space where the natural wonders of the world come alive.

Dauset Trails serves as a permanent home to over 70 Georgia native animals, each with its unique story of survival. Injured or orphaned, these creatures found relief within the center's caring embrace. Designated as non-releasable due to the nature of their injuries, they become ambassadors for wildlife conservation, offering visitors a chance to connect with the diverse ecosystems of Georgia. Additionally, the center operates a year-round rehabilitation program, successfully releasing over 50 animals back into the wild in the past year alone.

The heartbeat of Dauset Trails lies in its commitment to environmental education. Welcoming school groups and the community, the center strives to ignite a passion for nature and foster a sense of responsibility for the environment. Dauset Trails loves the joy of witnessing school buses unloading eager children, ready to explore and learn about the wonders of the natural world.

Dauset Trails doesn't just cater to education and wildlife care; it actively engages the community through events that celebrate the local culture and talent. The Bluebirds and Bluegrass festival, held each spring, brings together local musicians, food vendors, and artisans. Come fall, the annual Syrup Festival adds a sweet touch to the calendar, where freshly made cane syrup becomes a symbol of tradition and togetherness.

Support our furry friend and the ​wonders of nature! Your donations ​help us care for our animals at ​Dauset trails Nature Center!

Donate here

Groundhog Day

Come see Beau make his ​annual prediction!

Will it be an early spring or 6 ​more weeks of winter?

February 2nd, 2024

Bluebirds and Bluegrass Festival

Soar into a symphony of blue skies and bluegrass melodies at our annual Bluebirds & Bluegrass Festival!

April 20th, 2024

Syrup Festival

Add a sweet touch to the calendar with freshly made cane syrup!

November 23rd, 2024

Animal Trail

Children’s Garden

Wonder Room

Lotus Pond

Barnyard

Tree Trail

Woodland Garden Trail

Picnic Area/Playground

call (770) 775-6798 for availability

The Village at Indian Springs

Candlewood Suites

Days Inn

Plantation Inn & Suites

Email: office@dausettrails.com

Phone: 770-775-6798

Address: 360 Mt Vernon Church Rd

Jackson, Ga 30233

Dauset Trails Nature Center

@dausettrailsofficial

@dausettrailsnaturecenter

Dauset Trails Nature Center

Is there an admission fee?

There is no admission or parking fee. However, we do have a gift shop where all ​proceeds go back to improving Dauset Trails.

Can we bring our dog into Dauset Trails Nature Center?

We do not allow any pets inside the nature center, however you may take your ​leashed dog on our hiking and biking trails.

How much time should we allow to see everything?​

In order to explore everything our nature center has to offer, we recommend ​giving yourself 2 hours

What kinds of animals are at Dauset Trails?

Live animals including native mammals, birds of prey and reptiles of Georgia. See ​and feed big pond-type fish, turtles and waterfowl. Also, see common farm ​animals at our barnyard exhibit.

How did you get these animals?

All of our animals are non-releasable and have either been injured or orphaned ​and were transferred from the GA DNR, Yellow River Game Ranch, Animal Clinics, ​and the Audubon Society.

Can we bring in outside food to feed the animals, fish, geese, etc.?

Unfortunately no, all of Dauset Trails animals are provided with a well balanced ​diet daily and any outside food could cause them to become sick. If you would ​like to feed the fish, turtles and geese, we do have feeders that contain proper ​food for them.

Can we go swimming or fishing in the lakes?

We do not allow swimming or fishing for guest unless they are booked for camping.

Do you sell food or should we bring a picnic lunch?

We do sell some delicious snacks in our giftshop, such as chips and popsicles.

Who runs Dauset Trails?

A private foundation, The Daughtry Foundation, supplies the resources to ​maintain the center and 12 employees.

What does the word “Dauset” mean?

Dauset was created from the last names of two people who started the Nature ​Center in 1977: Hampton Daughtry + David Settle = Dauset.