Getting outside and experiencing nature is a great way to relax, connect to the earth, and breathe fresh air. Here in Marietta, Georgia, there are plenty of outdoor spaces where you can see wildlife. This includes a number of parks, trails, recreation areas, lakes, and more. You don’t have to travel to an exotic location to see animals; you can simply go outside here in Marietta and find some incredible things.

Seeing wildlife and being in nature is also extremely important for children in early development as well as later on in life. Young kids can be entertained by insects, birds, or small animals for hours, and teaching them the value of wildlife can be an important part of their growth. This is important at Crème de la Crème of Marietta, where children are encouraged to play outside often in the school’s high-quality facilities.

In the meantime, if you want to get outside and experience wildlife in Marietta, why not visit one of the locations we have listed here? There’s something for everyone, from long hikes to casual park visits to waterfalls and more. Find your next outdoor destination from our list of recommendations.

Morgan Falls Overlook Park

“People Children Child” used with permission via Pixabay by HaiBaron

Located just to the east of Marietta in neighboring Sandy Springs, Morgan Falls Overlook Park is an excellent place to see waterfowl and catch a beautiful sunset over the Morgan Falls Reservoir. Hiking trails will take you to gorgeous viewpoints, and you’re bound to see birds and insects as you make your way across the 30-acre park. High Country Outfitters operates seasonally from the Paddle Shack, renting out kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards for even more exploration. Or, take a book and relax on one of their many wooden benches while watching the ducks and geese.

Mountain to River Trail

The paved 2-mile section of this trail stretches from Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park to Rosalene Street in Marietta. The goal for the Mountain to River Trail is to eventually extend it several miles east to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, connecting many of the spaces we have written about here. Some parts of the trail have been extended, so you might find that it’s been lengthened even since this article was written.

We recommend that you begin your visit to this trail by parking at the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park visitor center, where you can visit the park when you’re done hiking. Keep your eyes and ears on alert for birds, small mammals, deer, insects, and more.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

After you’ve hiked a portion of the Mountain to River Trail, stick around to explore the National Park Service’s Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. This park is just under 3,000 acres and preserves an 1864-era Civil War battleground from the Atlanta Campaign. You can explore this park on foot on their over 22 miles of maintained interpretive trails. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re leashed. You can also drive the park’s roads while looking out for wildlife. The park is open to horseback riding if you happen to be a horse owner.

In 2000, this park was designated as a Globally Important Bird Area, making it one of the best places in the region to bring your binoculars and look for feathered friends. Walking, riding, or driving up to the top of Kennesaw Mountain, you might even see birds of prey circling above. Another great way to learn about the nature, history, and wildlife of this park is to attend one of the Ranger Presentations or Ranger-led hikes, which are held regularly.

East Cobb Park

East Cobb Park is a 20-acre green space with fields, creeks, playgrounds, walking paths, and pavilions. While it’s more of a typical family park with picnic areas and playground equipment, it still attracts plenty of wildlife to its trees, grassy fields, and flowing water. They host regular events, including their Sunday Fundays and East Cobb Wine & Vine Market, giving you even more opportunities to be in nature.

While visiting East Cobb Park, explore the trail that connects it to Fullers Park, and keep a lookout for wildlife as you walk. As traditional neighborhood parks, East Cobb and Fuller Parks are both great spots to take the whole family for an afternoon or weekend day of exploring and playing.

Chattahoochee River Nation Recreation Area

The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is part of the National Parks System, and this location puts quite an emphasis on nature and wildlife. Among the many animals that live in and visit the park, you can find white-tailed deer, 240+ bird species, owls, bats, frogs, and a myriad of insects. You should definitely take your binoculars with you when you pay a visit to this spot. There are hiking and cycling trails to explore different parts of the park, or you can even go fishing along the 48 miles of the Chattahoochee River.

If you’re interested in a lovely walk in nature, we recommend the 3-mile Sope Creek Trail, which starts in the Sope Creek Park access area. On this trail, you’ll pass the ruins of an old paper mill from the Civil War era. The trail also sticks next to the Sope Creek, which is a beacon for thirsty wildlife — if you’re really quiet, you might see deer, rabbits, or other mammals. It’s also a lovely place to see wildflowers in spring and summer.

We hope this list has given you some inspiration for the next time you crave a little outdoor and wildlife experience. Crème de la Crème of Marietta understands how important it is for your child to be outside and active. That’s why they have state-of-the-art facilities that allow students to grow while having fun in the fresh air. This includes age-appropriate playgrounds, a water park, a baseball field, and a basketball court.

Did we miss your favorite place to see wildlife in and around Marietta? Let us know, as we are always interested in updating our suggestions.