From a distance, the Natural Exploration Area looks like a bunch of random, twisted trees. But, once you get inside, you’ll quickly realize that this is an organic dream space where adventurous kiddos are invited to climb, explore, and use their imaginations. For a city kid, the magic of playing in a forest cannot be beat.

Designed by landscape architect Christian Zimmerman, this play area was a huge hit with my preschool-age daughter. She loved balancing on the huge fallen trees and lounging on trunk chairs.

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There is plenty of space for kids to run free and climb wildly, plus a water pump and a sand area. Scattered, painted tree branches encourage imaginative play and various tree trunks and stumps offer tons of variety. Parents will appreciate the beautiful wooden paths and wood-carved seating areas.

The play area also serves as an educational experience. My daughter loved learning about the natural materials, thanks to the posted signage. We passed the time by counting rings to determine a tree’s age and discussing how the trees fell, many due to Hurricane Sandy, or why they had been cut down.

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While this spot does require some assistance for little ones navigating the terrain, older kids should be fine. None of the structures are too high and the soft ground is covered in grass.

If you want to make a day of it, check out the nearby carousel, Prospect Park Zoo, or Lefferts Historic House.  If you haven’t had enough nature, head to the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens and grab lunch at one of our favorite Park Slope family-friendly restaurants.

The Donald and Barbara Zucker Natural Exploration Area is located on Nellie's Lawn in Prospect Park, between East Drive and the Flatbush Avenue side of the park. 

Photos courtesy of Prospect Park Alliance