before you visit
We love visitors! Here’s some more information that will make your visit enjoyable and help to minimize your impact on nature and other visitors.
four-legged visitors
We love dogs and we allow them on most of our preserves (pets aren't permitted at Stoneleigh). BUT we require their humans to keep them leashed at all times (no exceptions!) and pick up their poop.
photography
Amateur photographers are welcome to take photos. (Tag them with #NatLands!) We do, however, have some restrictions and guidelines for professionals wishing to use the preserves for photo or video shoots.
deer management
Hunting on our preserves is strictly controlled as part of a larger habitat management program. Fishing and trapping are not permitted.
Visitor Guidelines
public hours
Our preserves are generally open sunrise to sunset, year round. Select preserves are closed one day a week for trail maintenance and natural areas management. Stoneleigh: a natural garden is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
Occasionally we may close certain trails or parking areas for special events, or snow removal.
amenities
Small parking areas, informational kiosks with trail maps, and unpaved trails are provided at most preserves. Restrooms and drinking water are generally not available.
leashes required
Pets are permitted at most preserves but must be leashed at all times to keep people, other pets, and wildlife safe. No exceptions. Violators may be asked to leave the preserve. (Pets are not permitted at Stoneleigh: a natural garden.)
pick up poop
Dog waste is a health hazard for people, wildlife, and plants. Please bag your pet’s waste and take it with you. Please come prepared with your own waste bags.
leave no trace
Please leave all plants, flowers, animals, rocks and artifacts for all visitors to enjoy. Do not disturb research and education activities.
foot traffic only
No motorized vehicles or mountain bikes, please. Such vehicles can be destructive to plants and wildlife and disrupt the quiet experience others come to enjoy.
stick to trails
Please stay on designated trails to protect fragile plants, prevent erosion or wildlife disturbance, and reduce the chance of tick-borne illnesses. Ticks and other biting insects may be prevalent depending on the season and weather; repellents are recommended.
take your trash
Please pick up all trash, even biodegradable materials like food scraps, which are unsightly and attract scavengers that can harm native wildlife.
no trapping or fishing. hunting is strictly controlled; you can learn more here.
no drones without prior, written permission and FAA Part 107 remote pilot certification
no professional photography without prior, written permission
Planning a group visit to a preserve or have a specific use request? Read our guidelines to determine if the use is permitted without special permission.
no picnicking or alcohol
We are not responsible for personal items left in vehicles. Please remember to take valuables and other items with you.
want to explore with a group?
Our properties are pretty spectacular (if we do say so ourselves!), so it’s no wonder we receive frequent and varied requests to use them. We welcome group hikes as long as all participants follow visitor guidelines. Please check Facebook (each property has its own Facebook page) for the most up-to-date information on closings and special events.
Please note that Natural Lands does not permit fee-based activities or weddings at any of our properties, and that professional photographers wishing to use a preserve or Stoneleigh as backdrop for a photo shoot must first join our Featured Photography Program.