This land shall be preserved forever as a natural habitat.
foster the responsible use and enduring protection of this natural habitat and to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, ability, or means, can access and be immersed in the forest to enrich their quality of life, stoke curiosity, and promote learning, appreciation, and enjoyment
A 20-Acre Urban Oasis
The Lorraine Cherry Nature Preserve (formerly known as West 11th Street Park), a beautiful pocket wilderness acquired in 2008, is the largest tract of native Texas forest inside the I-610 Loop to be added to the City of Houston Parks and Recreation Department’s inventory in recent years. With a rapidly growing and diverse understory and serene wooded trails, it represents a haven for wildlife and for those of us seeking respite from the stresses of urban living.
For nearly two decades, LCNP has been used as a park and functioned as a permanent nature preserve. Thousands of people visit the annually to enjoy natural assets including:
153 species of birds, including great horned owls
0.25 acre wildflower area planted and maintained by volunteers
44 species of butterflies
200 species of plants, including a large variety of vigorous second-growth deciduous trees
More than one mile of nature trails
Active butterfly garden built and maintained by volunteers
Friends of The Lorraine Cherry Nature Preserve is a 501(c)(3) Texas corporation that was formed to assist in the acquisition and long-term management of West 11th Street Park. We provide financial support and guidance for park maintenance and improvements and host the award-winning Wireless Wilderness Tour.
The guide is composed of seven trees and two shrubs that you will see on the property. A sketch for each species and a brief description will help you identify each tree or shrub. A QR is included for each species so you find additional information on-line.