The nature centers are designed to be fully functional, sustainable and energy efficient while minimizing the disturbance to the natural landscape and maximizing the design compatibility with the natural surroundings. Several other factors taken into consideration included the preservation of wildlife corridors, the need to avoid disturbing natural undeveloped land, and the possibility of utilizing a site which already had been previously disturbed.
The nature centers at Cave Creek Regional Park, Usery Mountain Regional Park, and White Tank Mountain Regional Park are paired with outdoor amphitheaters, and are connected to the centers by scenic desert walkways that stem from the back patio. The amphitheaters allow staff to incorporate interpretive and green educational programming opportunities into their schedules.
The nature center's amphitheaters, patios and classrooms may be rented for corporate events, scout meetings, family gatherings, and a myriad of other functions. For information about capacity levels and fees, contact the park supervisor directly.