Leaders from Forest Park Forever and the City of St. Louis held a ceremonial groundbreaking for a new Nature Playscape in Forest Park. The experiential Playscape is being created on 17 acres in the heart of the Park, between the World’s Fair Pavilion and the Jewel Box.

Funded by donors to Forest Park Forever, the Nature Playscape in Forest Park has been designed to feature eight activity areas, including Mounds, Spring, Meadow, a Wetland and more. A series of paths and boardwalks will connect the distinct areas, creating opportunities for kids and families to climb, splash, build and explore their way through the site. 

The goals of the Nature Playscape project are to connect children and families of all backgrounds and abilities with nature and promote their physical, mental and emotional well-being while enhancing the overall Forest Park experience for all visitors.

“The new Nature Playscape will be a fantastic and unique destination for both Forest Park and the entire region,” said Lesley S. Hoffarth, P.E., President and Executive Director of Forest Park Forever. “We are grateful to our generous donors who have made this project possible, and to the City of St. Louis for our terrific partnership here in the Park. Forest Park Forever believes deeply in the importance of our youth building and sustaining connections to nature, particularly in today’s digital world. The experiences kids will have in the Nature Playscape will last a lifetime.” 

“The new Nature Playscape has been designed to fit thoughtfully within Forest Park,” said Greg Hayes, Director of Parks, Recreation & Forestry for the City of St. Louis. “Up until now this area had just been mowed turf. In restoring these 17 acres to more natural landscapes, the project not only offers an incredible amount of nature-based fun to visitors, but it also continues our long-term efforts to be responsible stewards of the Forest Park grounds.” 

The project is slated for completion sometime next year. For more information, log onto forestparkforever.org.