Open Play at the Nixon Park Nature Area

Your kids can explore and play freely at the Nixon Park Nature Area during regular park hours. The nature center's front desk loans out buckets filled with discovery tools—think sifters, magnifying glasses, nets, and other supplies—perfect for investigating the Exploration Forest stream and muddy banks. This is a fantastic way for children to get messy, observe insects and water life, and connect with nature at their own pace. This activity is completely free and welcoming to families of all sizes. Just remember to bring water shoes and a towel since creek exploration definitely gets wet. If you're bringing a group of 10 or more children, you'll need to register ahead of time by calling (717) 428-1961 x1 or emailing NixonCountyPark@YorkCountyPA.gov. When you reach out, be ready to share your group's name, total number of participants, the children's ages, and a contact number.