Hidden Pond Nature Center
8511 Greeley Boulevard, Springfield VA 22152
Park is open dawn to dusk, nature center hours vary
$
outdoor-adventures, playground, hikes
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Hidden Pond Nature Center is a natural oasis "hidden" in West Springfield!
Hidden Pond Nature Center and playground is a treasured neighborhood gem in West Springfield with lots for the whole family to enjoy. The top floor of the nature center has restrooms, interactive exhibits and live animals on display. A large glass window gives you a great view of the pond from here! The bottom floor of the nature center is used as a classroom for school groups and classes taught by park naturalists. You can also rent the basement classroom for a birthday party that includes an animal meet and greet lead by a naturalist.
Trails from the nature center lead to the pond and deeper into the stream valley. The loop trail around the pond is stroller-friendly and short but does have one very steep hill. Docks around the pond let you get close to the water and catch a glimpse of sun-bathing turtles or you can try your hand at catch-and-release fishing. Past the pond, the trail forks in two directions. An unpaved trail heading down a steep hill is a tough climb but leads to the Pohick Stream. Sandy banks next to the stream make it pretty easy for kids to get into the water and explore if they can tackle the hill. The trail in the other direction is paved and mostly flat until you reach the bridge. After crossing the bridge the trail gets fairly steep but at the end of the climb there is another small playground at Orange Hunt Estates Park.
Hidden Pond offers a variety of outdoor naturalist programs as well such as netting in the pond and stream or nature hikes. Some of their most popular programs are at nighttime with a campfire and s'mores!
For Kids: Right at the entrance to the park is a fairly new forest-themed playground with a large play structure for children ages 5-12, a play structure for toddlers, swings, and a log tunnel! The swing area includes an accessible swing as well as two tandem baby swings that are operated by an adult or older child swinging too!
Next to the playground is a large picnic area and plenty of parking. The playground is fully fenced and gated. A paved path from the playground leads to the nature center.