The Heard Natural Science Museum Is a 289-Acre Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney

Bessie Heard set up a charitable foundation in 1964. She bought land south of McKinney and opened the museum to the public in 1967. The sanctuary grew over time to 289 acres. It has nature trails and a man-made wetland area. The museum building has exhibits on natural history and live native animals.

The sanctuary is inside the city limits of McKinney. It is part of the Lake Lavon Loop wildlife trail, which the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department recognizes. Visit heardmuseum.org for hours, admission prices, and program information.