Natural Play

For many families, play is how their connection to nature begins.

A well-designed nature-based playground can turn casual visits into lifelong appreciation for the outdoors, especially for parents who aren’t ready for unstructured play the outdoors. Here are our recommendations:

• Create Meaningful, Place-Based Play - Play areas built from natural materials and earth tones blend seamlessly into the landscape and invite imaginative, sensory-rich experiences. These spaces help young visitors build confidence, curiosity, imagination, and a sense of belonging in nature.

• Don’t Overlook Loose-Parts Play - Simple, open-ended materials–like sticks, stones, sand, and water–encourage creativity and problem solving skills. Loose-parts play supports unstructured exploration and helps children (and parents) grow more comfortable with nature-based experiences.

• Maintain for Safety and Longevity - Regular maintenance and inspections keep these play areas safe, clean, and inviting. Replenishing materials and caring for natural features ensures that every visits feels safe, fresh, and engaging.

Ultimately, a thoughtful nature play area is more than just a playground. It is an introduction to outdoor discovery. It welcomes new families, supports childhood development, and deepens community connections to your site.