VISIT US

What awaits you?

The nature center and campus have lots of charm. It is a humble yet cozy building and is often described as having "log cabin vibes." The building is a shared space that consists of areas for the public - including a restroom, two classrooms used for programming, and staff offices. If you stop by as a visitor, here is what you can expect:

Blank page: Welcome

IN THE BUILDING

An animal exhibit hall near the front lobby - friendly turtles, snakes, and more!
Backpacks, binoculars, and other equipment are available to check out with an ID
Maps and brochures are available in the lobby - ask a friendly naturalist for trail recommendations!
A large lodge area, complete with
- a library and seating area
- a kid's corner, with toys and activities
- a Bug Zoo
- animal exhibits and artifact collection

ON THE GROUNDS

An aviary that houses our hawks, turkey vulture, owl, and friendly male turkey
A fire circle and several picnic tables
Sitting gazebos
A sculpture garden
An outdoor classroom with a mud kitchen for mudpie lovers!

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ON THE TRAILS

There are many natural surface trails that lead from CMNC into the park. There is also a 15-mile multi-use trail. The park is over 1200 acres with several special spaces. There is a variety of plants, animals, and landscapes to enjoy, including:

Ridges and hills
A Sacred Magnolia Grove - gorgeous when in bloom! (usually early-mid April)
A stone labyrinth
Winans Meadow - this is where the historic water wheel is located
Dead Run - full of crayfish in summer!
A small wetland area with a boardwalk - keep an eye out for skunk cabbage!
Rolling Forests - it can be 10 degrees cooler under the canopy.
Several old historical foundations, including a home, root cellar, fort wall, and more.
The Crimea Estate and Orianda House

FOR YOUR SAFETY WE ASK THAT YOU:

Be considerate of how you move through the forest. Leave footprints. Take memories.
Beware of poison ivy.
Check yourself for ticks after hiking.
Dogs must be on a leash! Please clean up after your pet.
Our surface paths are not multi-use. Please refrain from biking or using motor bikes on these trails.
Refrain from the use of drones
No hunting or trapping!
Enjoy snacks/meals in the designated picnic areas, and please take your trash.
Fires are only permitted in designated fire pits and grill areas
Do not smoke.