Natural play areas
In response to the rise in nature deficit disorder among kids, Metro Parks created natural play areas at six parks. Kids and adults can go off-trail and interact with nature in a more direct way than usual, by climbing trees and rocks, digging in the dirt, playing in streams and generally having fun. The natural play areas range from just under 10 acres to 25 acres, and are located at Battelle Darby Creek, Highbanks, Prairie Oaks, Sharon Woods, Slate Run and Three Creeks.
Battelle Darby Creek Natural Play Area
Explore a ravine, wade in the creek and climb on rocks and trees. The 8-acre natural play area runs along Big Darby Creek and can be accessed from the Indian Ridge parking lot or along the Terrace Trail.
Highbanks Natural Play Area
Explore the Olentangy River, build a fort, climb a tree, follow tracks, play hide and seek in the 15-acre forest area with paths leading to the river. Access the natural play area from the Big Meadows Picnic Area along the Scenic River Trail.
Prairie Oaks Natural Play
Explore the giant sycamore trees in the woods, catch crawdads in Big Darby Creek, build a fort. The 25-acre natural play area surrounds Beaver Lake and runs along the creek. Access from Lucas Road.
Sharon Woods Natural Play Area
Explore the 7.5-acre forest area. The natural play area is accessed from the parking lot at the Apple Ridge Picnic Area, behind the split rail fence.
Slate Run Natural Play Area
Explore Slate Run Creek and a wooded hillside in the 7-acre natural play area. Pak at the Shady Grove Picnic Area, walk down the Five Oaks Trail, past the overlook deck and down to the bottom of the hill. Natural Play Area signs are posted,
Three Creeks Natural Play Area
Explore the 12-acre pine forest, climb trees, built a fort. The natural play area runs alongside the Evergreen Trail in the Confluence Trails Area.
PDF of article about Natural Play Areas from Parkscope - summer 2010
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