The Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art in Dauphin County is one of Pennsylvania’s premier destinations for anyone who appreciates wildlife art, conservation, and the outdoors.
Located just outside Millersburg, this unique attraction celebrates the life and legacy of one of the Commonwealth’s greatest wildlife artists while inviting visitors to explore the natural landscapes that inspired his work.
Whether you come for the art, the hiking, or both, the Ned Smith Center offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Directions | Hours | Admission Fees
The Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art is located at 176 Water Company Rd, Millersburg, PA 17061.
The Center is open Tuesday – Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM (Closed Sunday & Monday.)
All trails remain FREE to use and OPEN YEAR-ROUND from dawn to dusk.
Admission to the art galleries is FREE – donations are welcome.
What You’ll See at the Ned Smith Center
The center honors the remarkable career of E. Stanley “Ned” Smith, a self-taught artist, writer, and naturalist whose passion for Pennsylvania’s wildlife earned him national recognition.
Born in nearby Millersburg, Smith spent decades observing nature firsthand, transforming those experiences into remarkably lifelike paintings and illustrations.
During a career spanning more than four decades, he produced thousands of wildlife illustrations for books, magazines, and conservation organizations, including 121 original covers for Pennsylvania Game News and Pennsylvania’s first official duck stamp.
Inside the Ned Smith Gallery, visitors can follow the story of his life while admiring original paintings, sketches, and other works that span his extraordinary career.
Informative exhibits explain how his artwork inspired generations of Pennsylvanians to appreciate wildlife and support conservation efforts.
As a longtime admirer of Ned Smith’s artistic legacy, I personally collect his artwork and currently have two signed and numbered pieces hanging in my home, making this destination especially meaningful for me.
Beyond the Gallery | Exploring the Great Outdoors
Beyond the museum itself, the center encompasses more than 500 acres of forests, fields, and meadows, along with approximately 12 miles of hiking trails that invite visitors to experience the same landscapes that inspired Smith’s artwork.
Well-marked trails wind through mature hardwood forests, across scenic footbridges, and alongside peaceful stretches of Wiconisco Creek.
Interpretive signs encourage hikers to slow down, observe wildlife, and sharpen their own naturalist skills just as Smith did throughout his life.
Along the way, visitors may spot white-tailed deer, colorful butterflies, songbirds, and a wide variety of native wildflowers.
A spacious picnic area beneath towering trees provides a relaxing place to enjoy lunch before or after exploring the trails.
Families will also appreciate the play area, while the DeSoto Amphitheater hosts concerts and other special events throughout the year.
Together, the galleries, hiking trails, and beautiful outdoor setting create an experience that perfectly blends art, nature, education, and recreation.
Final Thoughts
The Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art is far more than an art museum—it’s a place where visitors can experience the beauty of Pennsylvania through the eyes of one of its greatest conservationists.
If you enjoy wildlife, hiking, or Pennsylvania history, this is one Dauphin County destination that deserves a spot on your bucket list.
Nearby Attractions
17 Must-See Attractions in Dauphin County showcases more remarkable sights and experiences near the Ned Smith Center.
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