About This Playground
🌳 The playground at Dunwoody Nature Center in Georgia is a unique nature-inspired play area set within a 22-acre park. It features natural elements and creative play structures that blend with the surrounding woodland environment, encouraging both active play and nature exploration.
Visitor Experience: The playground receives consistently positive reviews, with visitors praising its natural setting, creative design, and the way it encourages imaginative play. Many reviewers appreciate that it offers a different experience from typical plastic playground equipment.>
More about this playground
Playground Type
Address
5343 Roberts Dr, Dunwoody, GA 30338, USA
Phone
(770) 394-3322
+1 770-394-3322
Website
www.dunwoodynature.orgCoordinates
33.95667, -84.33278
Hours of Operation
Hours may vary during holidays. Please call ahead for confirmation.
Playground Features
Age Suitability
Suitable for children ages 2-12, with different areas catering to various age groups. The playground includes both challenging elements for older children and safer, smaller structures for toddlers.
Equipment Available
Natural log climbers, tree stump jumping pads, slides built into hillsides, boulder climbing areas, balance beams, rope bridges, musical instruments, sand play area, and a custom-built treehouse structure.
Shaded Areas
Abundant natural shade from mature trees throughout the playground area, providing excellent coverage during summer months.
Seating For Parents
Multiple wooden benches and natural seating options (boulders and logs) positioned around the playground for parental supervision.
Restroom Availability
Clean restroom facilities located in the nature center building nearby, accessible during center operating hours.
Drinking Fountains
Several drinking fountains available throughout the park, including bottle-filling stations near the playground area.
Safety Accessibility
Fencing
The playground is partially bordered by natural boundaries including vegetation and small wooden fencing in strategic areas, but is not completely enclosed.
Surface Material
Primarily engineered wood fiber mulch with some areas featuring rubber surfacing under higher equipment. Natural elements like sand and grass in other play zones.
Ada Accessibility
Parts of the playground are accessible to children with mobility challenges, with wheelchair-accessible paths leading to several play features, though not all areas can accommodate wheelchairs due to the natural terrain.
Cleanliness Maintenance
Well-maintained with regular cleaning schedules. Staff inspect the playground daily, and the natural materials are refreshed seasonally.
Additional Amenities
Nearby Parking
Free parking lot with approximately 50 spaces adjacent to the nature center and playground. Additional overflow parking available during busy times.
Pet Policy
Dogs allowed in the park on leashes, but not permitted within the playground area itself.
Bike Racks
Several bike racks installed near the entrance to the playground and nature center.
Nearby Food Options
Picnic tables available throughout the park. No food vendors on-site, but restaurants are located within a 5-minute drive in downtown Dunwoody.
Sports Areas
Open field spaces for informal games adjacent to the playground.
Walking / Biking Trails Nearby
Over 2 miles of hiking trails wind through the nature center property, connecting directly to the playground area and featuring boardwalks over wetland areas.
Community Reviews
User Submitted Photos
Numerous photos showcase children exploring the natural play structures, especially the popular treehouse and log climbing features.
Recent Reviews
Recent visitors highlight the playground's integration with nature and appreciate the shade during hot Georgia summers. Several mention it as a refreshing alternative to standard playgrounds.
Crowd Levels
Moderately busy on weekends and during summer months, particularly in the mornings. Weekdays during school hours offer a quieter experience.
Special Events
The nature center hosts regular family-friendly events that incorporate the playground, including seasonal festivals, nature-based educational programs, and outdoor concerts.
User Experience
Entrance Fee
Free admission to the playground and park. Some special events at the nature center may have separate fees.
Space For Groups
Suitable for birthday parties and group gatherings with designated picnic areas that can be reserved in advance through the nature center.
Nature Connection
Exceptional integration with the natural environment, with native plants surrounding play areas and educational signage about local ecosystems.
Noise Level
Generally moderate, with natural buffers helping to absorb sound. The setting encourages more imaginative and less rowdy play.
Aesthetic Design
Award-winning design that blends natural elements with playful structures, creating a visually pleasing environment that complements the woodland setting.
Safety Regulations
Security Presence
Park staff and volunteers maintain a presence during operating hours. The area is well-lit until closing time.
Rules Restrictions
No smoking, alcohol, or glass containers permitted. Children must be supervised by adults. Playground closes at dusk.
First Aid Availability
First aid kits available at the nature center building, and staff are trained in basic first aid. Emergency contact information is posted at multiple locations.
Community Interaction
Community Activities
Regular ranger-led programs for children, family nature walks, environmental education classes, and seasonal festivals that utilize the playground space.
Social Interaction
Design encourages cooperative play and interaction between children of different ages. Multiple play stations allow for parallel play and group activities.
Sustainability Environment
Eco Friendly Practices
The playground uses sustainable materials, including FSC-certified wood and locally sourced natural elements. Rainwater collection systems help maintain plantings around the play area.
Renewable Energy
Solar-powered lighting installed along paths leading to the playground, with educational signage explaining renewable energy.
Walkability Bike Access
Connected to neighborhood sidewalks and trails, making it accessible by foot or bicycle from surrounding residential areas. Bike lanes on nearby roads lead to the nature center entrance.
Reviews
Tommy Nagle (Albion Reid Weddings)
in the last week
Dunwoody Nature Center is one of those venues that feels like an escape without actually being too far from the city. Tucked into the woods, it’s got this really relaxed, natural vibe that makes everything feel effortless. The North Woods Pavilion is a wonderful indoor option, with huge windows that keep you connected to the outdoors, but honestly, if the weather's good, the outdoor spaces are where it's at. Ceremonies under the trees, receptions with the sound of the creek nearby—just an easy, peaceful setting. If you're after something that feels organic and unfussy but still well put together, this place is a great shout. IG @AlbionReid
View on GoogleAli Malone
4 months ago
We had our wedding at The Dunwoody Nature Center in September 2024. It was affordable, spacious, and beautiful! The staff communicated quickly and provided many accommodations/amenities.
View on GoogleAbby Carpenter
a year ago
We LOVE this place! There is a playground but also TONS of natural space for kids to climb, crawl, and explore! We love the trails and throwing rocks in the creek. We just completed Mommy & Me Nature Class with Mrs. Laura and that was amazing!! My 2.5 year old learned so much — and so did I!
View on GoogleBrandon Ake
a year ago
We recently got married at the Northwoods Pavilion. We had a small wedding ceremony of about 30 people and a reception with just under 100. Abigail was our event coordinator. She was wonderful to work with and very responsive and informative throughout the entire process. The venue and surrounding areas are beautiful. Even though it is a public park, the pavilion is tucked away where you have enough privacy. It was very affordable and would highly recommend this place for any type of event!
View on GoogleStephen Lunn
4 years ago
This was a beautiful park area with a wonderful small river that ran through it. The river was amazing to play in with young children, with little rock pools and sandy areas. However the level of pollution in the river has now turned most of the water a sickly yellow colour with a rather terrible fur growing on all the wet surfaces. The woods and park are still great but the river is a no go now as I'd hate to think what effect the pollution would have on your skin and if you where to invest even a little of it.
View on Google