The Nature Explore Classroom at
Natural Bridge State Park
Children’s Discovery Area
The Natural Bridge has long brought in tourists from near and far, but our Children’s Discovery Area is something that both travelers and locals can enjoy. Far away from the busiest part of the park, this large area has over a dozen stations and lots of space for running and playing.
As a nod to our park’s rural roots, we have disguised an art station as a set of barn doors, created a “general store,” and used un-stained wood in all construction for a rustic look. Most of the structures were built by volunteers, Virginia youth conservation corps who came from all across the state.
The greatest part of the Children’s Discovery Area is how open-ended it is; the kids get to decide how to use the space, and their creativity shines through. Art supplies end up at the “general store” to create menus and signs, “general store” merchandise ends up in the sand pit as buried treasure. Not only do kids get outdoors, they get to creative play as well.
