Inspired by the Children & Nature movement to get kids to unplug and reconnect with the outdoors, the San Francisco Recreation & Park department and the Port of San Francisco teamed up with SF Children & Nature and Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds to create a unique space where kids and families can gather, create, and play.

Designed by Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds and input from the local community who drew their ideal play areas, the new space allows children to negotiate risk through exploring nature, climbing, and balancing. Locally sourced natural elements including boulders and tree stumps provide the materials for creativity, dramatic play, and imagination. Winding, accessible pathways mix with playful shortcuts, leading to a gathering space or outdoor classroom with seating made from repurposed logs. Surrounded by native vegetation, the exploration area offers high lookout spots for spying birds and other wildlife.

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