Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University celebrates renewed commitment to education, conservation, and community engagement
Jacksonville State University (JSU) was pleased to announce that the National Park Service (NPS) will continue its operations at the Little River Canyon Center beyond 2025. The previously announced lease termination has officially been revoked, and the NPS office at the Canyon Center is no longer listed among the sites slated for closure.
This development marks a major victory for conservation and education efforts in Northeast Alabama. The decision to maintain the NPS presence at the Canyon Center reflects the tireless work of JSU’s federal delegation, along with key state and local partners who rallied to protect this vital resource. Their dedication ensures continued access to environmental education, outdoor recreation, and research initiatives that benefit the region and beyond.
“We are especially thankful for our longstanding partnership with the National Park Service and are excited to continue our collaborative work at the Canyon Center,” said Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., President of Jacksonville State University. “Together, we will build on our shared mission to provide meaningful programming, research opportunities, and public engagement that highlight Little River Canyon’s unique natural and cultural heritage.”
JSU has proudly managed and maintained the Canyon Center since its opening in 2009. Nestled next to the Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne, the Canyon Center serves as a hub for learning, discovery, and adventure. The facility includes a Grand Hall, HD movie theater, natural history library, interactive exhibits, classrooms, a gift shop, and scenic trails, as well as an outdoor amphitheater. It offers a robust calendar of concerts, lectures, hikes, and workshops year-round for visitors of all ages.
While a portion of the Canyon Center is leased to the National Park Service, Jacksonville State remains fully responsible for the building’s management, programming, and operations. The center also stands as a beacon of sustainable design, having earned LEED Silver Certification for its environmentally conscious construction, which features geothermal heating and cooling, recycled materials, and enhanced insulation.
The Canyon Center is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Central Time. It is also available to rent for meetings, corporate retreats, and special events.
This renewed commitment from the National Park Service ensures that the Canyon Center will continue to thrive as a cornerstone of environmental stewardship and community engagement for years to come.
For more information about the Canyon Center’s hours and programs, visit JSU’s Canyon Center website.
