Wildrock Nature Play & Discovery Center
Nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills, Wildrock Nature Play & Discovery Center is one of the most popular destinations for Charlottesville families. It is a non-profit, outdoor discovery center staffed by naturalists, teachers, artists, musicians, and mental health professionals. The site offers outdoor family recreation, private events, field trips, camps, and community outreach activities at its 28-acre facility in Crozet.
Wildrock is home to three acres of outdoor space where kids and families can move, play, explore, and enjoy discovering nature together. Outdoor areas include walking trails, a bird sanctuary, meadows, woods, the Ladybird Farm, and the Labyrinth. Indoors, children can enjoy nature-themed pretend play and sensory exploration in the Barn & Discovery Center.
How to Visit Wildrock
Families can visit the outdoor playscape by making a reservation through the Wildrock website. Each reservation covers one vehicle and up to six people. Rates can be found on the website, along with discounts for families requiring financial assistance.
Families can also purchase a yearly membership. Reservations for visits are still required with a membership.
The outdoor playscape is open to families at select times:
- Tuesdays and Fridays: 9:30 am to 12:00 pm
- Saturdays: 9:30 am to 12:00 pm; 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm
- Select holidays
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Can I Bring a Picnic or a Pet?
Visitors can picnic at select locations around the Wildrock playscape. The site asks that visitors remove or compost all trash.
Service dogs are welcome on leashes, but no other pets are permitted.
Can I Cancel or Reschedule My Visit?
If you have booked a Wildrock visit, there will be a link in your confirmation email to reschedule. Refunds are not offered for missed visits or cancellations unless the site has closed due to extreme weather or other safety concerns.
Does Wildrock in Crozet Do Birthday Parties or Field Trips?
Wildrock is a popular destination for both birthday parties and field trips. You can contact the discovery center directly to plan and schedule events.
What Is Camp Wildrock?
Camp Wildrock is a nature play day camp offered during the summer for different age groups. The cost and timing of sessions varies from year to year, and financial assistance is available. Wildrock lists upcoming camp programs on its website.
Where is Wildrock Located?
Wildrock is located in Crozet, Virginia, at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Its address is 6600 Blackwells Hollow Road, Crozet, VA 22932.