Land Between the Lakes Nature Station Unveils Ambitious Remodel Plan

The multi-phase project aims to transform the facility into the nation's second federally owned AZA-accredited property.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Land Between the Lakes Woodlands Nature Station in western Kentucky has announced a sprawling, multi-phase remodel plan to overhaul the 30-year-old facility. The goal is to become the nation's second federally owned property accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, behind only The National Zoo in Washington, D.C. The remodel will include new animal enclosures, expanded walking trails, improved accessibility, and the addition of conference space and other visitor amenities.

Why it matters

The Nature Station is a popular regional attraction that showcases the natural habitats and wildlife of western Kentucky. The ambitious remodel project aims to modernize the facility, improve the visitor experience, and elevate the station's conservation and education efforts by achieving the prestigious AZA accreditation.

The details

The remodel plan is divided into four phases. Phase 1 will focus on the 'Riverlands' area, including new enclosures for red wolves and black bears, as well as acknowledging a nearby unmarked African American burial ground. Phase 2, 'The Refuge,' will add new aviaries and habitats for various birds of prey and other animals. Phases 3 and 4 will expand the 'Backyard' and 'Learning Center' areas, adding conference space, restrooms, a concession stand, and improving accessibility and maintenance access throughout the campus.

  • The Nature Station has welcomed visitors since 1992.
  • Federal funding has been secured for Phase 1 of the remodel.
  • A printed master plan for the full project will be ready by the end of February 2026.

The players

Land Between the Lakes Woodlands Nature Station

A nature and wildlife facility in western Kentucky that has operated since 1992, showcasing the region's flora, fauna, and natural habitats.

Sally Coyle

An architect from Orlando, Florida, who presented the remodel plans alongside Jenn Trompetter.

Jenn Trompetter

An architect from Charlottesville, Virginia, who presented the remodel plans alongside Sally Coyle.

John Pollpeter

The long-time director of the Land Between the Lakes Nature Station.

Jim McCoy

The area supervisor for the Land Between the Lakes region.

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What they’re saying

“To say there is excitement about this project might unduly downplay the seriousness and time required to secure what is now an official master plan.”

— John Pollpeter, Nature Station director (wpkyonline.com)

“Everything to this point has sprung from a 'crazy idea' — a notion of simply offering a facelift, to this full-on creative endeavor.”

— Jim McCoy, LBL area supervisor (wpkyonline.com)

What’s next

A printed master plan for the full remodel project will be ready by the end of February 2026.

The takeaway

The ambitious remodel of the Land Between the Lakes Nature Station represents a significant investment in modernizing and expanding a beloved regional attraction, with the goal of achieving prestigious AZA accreditation and enhancing the facility's conservation and education efforts.