Nature Play at Oak Knoll

What is a Nature Play Area?

Nature play areas add more ways for people to connect with nature by encouraging self-directed, informal play.

Unlike static, traditional playgrounds, nature play areas give children the chance to solve problems and construct their surroundings through natural elements and unstructured exploration.

Explore Oak Knoll's Nature Play Area

Ever want to know what it feels like to be a nesting bird? Hop in Oak Knoll’s giant (5’ tall and 8’ wide!) human-made bird nest constructed out of sticks and vines. There’s also Sid the Snake Stump Jump, an enchanted pathway hidden by foliage, and a teepee frame waiting for more sticks and logs.

Where

The stump jump, nest, and walkway sit behind the Nature Center and carriage barn. To get to the teepee, as well as a fairy-home building area, take Puddingstone Trail beyond the photovoltaic panels. Stay to the left at the Marsh Trail and go left again on the Talaquega Trail.

Good to know

The mosaic turtle – a decorative rock arrangement embedded in the ground behind the Nature Center – serves as an herb garden in warmer months.