Just minutes from Westfield, the John Paul Landing Environmental Education Center is quietly transforming everyday outings into adventures of learning, discovery, and connection with nature. Tucked inside the sprawling John Paul Landing Park in Cypress, this center is a local treasure for families, educators, nature lovers, and curious kids of all ages.

Located at 9950 Katy Hockley Rd, Cypress, TX 77433, the Environmental Education Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s a peaceful but vibrant hub of outdoor education and interactive exhibits, set against the backdrop of one of Harris County’s most scenic parks.

Where Education Meets Exploration

Created by Harris County Precinct 4 to deepen the community’s connection to the environment, the Center features seasonal activities, kid-focused learning, and wildlife programs tailored to the natural landscape of Northwest Houston. The Discovery Room, a favorite among young visitors, offers hands-on exploration that brings biology and ecology to life.

School groups and homeschoolers can also take advantage of structured educational programming, including immersive field trips that tie into local science curriculum standards. These visits are free and can be scheduled directly through the Center by calling 713-274-3131. 

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Fall 2025 Events: From Backyard Bass to Stargazing Nights

This fall, the Center is offering a packed schedule of free, family-friendly programs that give residents of all ages the chance to connect with nature in engaging and memorable ways:

• Backyard Bass & Fishing Camps – Learn to cast, catch, and release in a supportive, educational setting.

• Guided Bird Walks – Perfect for beginners and seasoned birders alike, especially in celebration of World Migratory Bird Day.

• Nature’s Way Story Time – A magical introduction to nature for toddlers and young children.

• Birding 101 & Bat Programs – Discover the wonders of native species and the vital roles they play in our ecosystem.

• Yoga in Nature & An Evening Under the Stars – Relax and recharge surrounded by the sights and sounds of the prairie sky.

All programs are free to the public, and many are designed to welcome both kids and adults. Whether you’re a parent looking to get your child excited about science, or someone simply hoping to slow down and enjoy the natural world, the Environmental Education Center has something for you this season.

A Community Space Built for All Ages

More than just a field trip destination, the Center serves as a hub for lifelong learning. Volunteers help support activities and contribute to educational displays. Local families often return again and again to enjoy a new program, observe a seasonal migration, or spend quality time on the trails.

The surrounding John Paul Landing Park—with its 176-acre lake, nearly 8 miles of trails, playgrounds, pavilions, and pickleball courts—makes the Environmental Education Center a perfect starting point or final stop in a full day of outdoor fun. Together, they form one of the most enriching recreational spaces in the Cypress and Katy area.

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Plan Your Visit

Residents of Westfield are encouraged to stop by this season to take part in the many free events and hands-on activities that make the Environmental Education Center such a special place. Bring a picnic, a pair of binoculars, or simply your sense of wonder.

To learn more about what’s coming up, you can view the Center’s seasonal calendar of events and educational programs here, by calling 713-274-3131 or visiting in person.

Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for more local spotlights, park updates, and community events happening near you.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.