A place for kids to play, build, and explore in nature.
Void of traditional playground equipment, the playscape features elements such as a simulated stream and boardwalk lookouts that encourage kids to play naturally.
General Info
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset daily
FREE Admission: $3 per person suggested donation
Conestee Nature Preserve is owned and operated by a nonprofit. Donations go directly to the Preserve and its programs.
Join Friends of the Playscape! You'll cover your admission donation for the year, enjoy great perks, and support CNP!
Location & Parking
The Nature Playscape is located at our Lake Entrance (B on our map) located at 840 Mauldin Rd. Use these maps find your way there:
Activities & Events
Open Houses
Children experience an important physical, emotional, and intellectual benefit from time spent exploring and learning in nature. While most of those opportunities are offered at the classroom level during the school day, parents will be happy to know that we also regularly provide after-school environmental education called Nature Discovery and preschool education through Knee-High Naturalists. Exploration and fun are the name of the game, and childhood curiosity is our guide!
Member Events
If you haven’t yet joined Friends of the Preserve, one of the big advantages of doing so is the event access. Members get early access to sign up for all of our events, some of which sell out very quickly, and we even have some special events that are just to show our appreciation for Friends of the Preserve. “Friendsgiving” is our signature annual Friends-only event, and admission for this event in Henderson Meadow is free with membership levels of $100 or more. Friends of the Preserve is intended to be an interactive community for folks who care deeply for CNP, and Friends-only events are the equivalent of our family reunion!
Guidelines for Visiting
Supervision required.
Use features as intended.
Play safe – in age appropriate areas.
Eat only in designated areas (picnic tables and benches). No glassware or alcoholic beverages.
No smoking.
No pets.
No bikes or skateboards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Nature Playscape open to school groups?
At this time, groups of more than 10 are not permitted.
Q: Is there a restroom nearby?
There are no restroom facilities at the Nature Playscape. The nearest restrooms are located a short walk away in the center building of the adjacent baseball complex. You can use this map for reference. Would you like to have restrooms AT the Nature Playscape? We would too. Help us make it happen! Support this goal with a donation.
Q: What should my kids wear?
Getting dirty is part of the fun! So, dress accordingly. We encourage kids to wear clothes that can get wet and muddy. But please, no swimsuits. Bring a towel and a change of clothes.
Q: Is the Nature Playscape intended for any particular age?
The Nature Playscape is designed especially for kids, but we understand it provides enjoyment for all ages.
Q: Is the Nature Playscape ADA-accessible?
Pathways through the upper portion of the Nature Playscape are wheelchair accessible, but not all features can be navigated by wheelchair. Unfortunately, due to fluctuations in terrain, the lower portion of the Playscape cannot be accessed by wheelchair.
Q: Can I picnic at the Nature Playscape?
Yes, but please only eat and drink at the picnic tables and benches. No glassware or alcoholic beverages.
Other Questions?
Risk is part of the reward
"Risky play" is defined as any play that is thrilling or exciting and involves some risk of injury. This play style encourages children to push past their comfort zone to develop resiliency, bodily awareness, and risk-assessment skills, all while bolstering their self confidence and independence.
Risky play reduces the risk of injury over time because children have a better understanding of how to navigate unsafe situations.
To learn more about the merits of risky play, visit bu.edu.
Ways to support
We're replacing screen time with time outdoors. Help us do it.
Gifts, big and small, will make a significant impact on our capacity to positively impact the community through the nature playscape. With a gift over $500, you have the option to be recognized on our unique donor wall.
We're replacing screen time with time outdoors. Help us do it.
Gifts, big and small, will make a significant impact on our capacity to positively impact the community through the nature playscape. With a gift over $500, you have the option to be recognized on our unique donor wall.
Feature Sponsors
