The Sunriver Nature Center shares a campus with the Oregon Observatory and handles the daytime side of natural science education. The indoor exhibits focus on Central Oregon geology, native plants, birds of prey, and reptiles — nothing flashy, but solid and well-suited to families with young children.
Outside, a small botanical garden plants native high-desert species alongside interpretive signs explaining the volcanic origin of the landscape. Live animal exhibits include owls, hawks, and other raptors that are recovering from injury and cannot be released. The centre also runs guided nature walks and junior naturalist programmes during the summer season. Admission is separate from the evening observatory programmes, so check the hours before combining both.