Exploring Reynolds Nature Preserve: A Quiet Natural Escape Near Atlanta

If you’re looking for a peaceful, wooded escape near Atlanta—with trails, wildlife, and a bit of local history—Reynolds Nature Preserve in Morrow, just south of the city, is one of the easiest day trips you can make.

Located in Clayton County, about 20–30 minutes from many Atlanta neighborhoods (depending on traffic), it’s a popular spot for hiking, birdwatching, nature photography, and quiet walks in the woods.

Where Reynolds Nature Preserve Is and How It Connects to Atlanta

Address:

• Reynolds Nature Preserve
  5665 Reynolds Road
  Morrow, GA 30260
  Phone (main office, typically through Clayton County Parks and Recreation): often available by searching “Reynolds Nature Preserve Clayton County” or calling the Clayton County Parks main line.

From much of Atlanta, you’ll likely reach the preserve by:

• I-75 South → exit near Morrow / Jonesboro Road
• Short local drive to Reynolds Road

Because it’s close to Southlake Mall, Clayton State University, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Reynolds Nature Preserve works well if you:

• Live on the south side of Atlanta and want a nearby nature retreat
• Have limited time between flights and want to stretch your legs somewhere calm
• Are visiting friends or family in Clayton, Henry, or South DeKalb and want an outdoor activity

Parking is generally free and located just inside the entrance.

What Makes Reynolds Nature Preserve Special

Reynolds Nature Preserve is a wooded, 146-acre nature preserve that blends:

• Piedmont forest typical of the Atlanta region
• Wetlands, creeks, and small ponds
• Open meadows and old fields
• Historic farm structures that reflect its former life as private farmland

For Atlanta residents, it offers a different feel than some intown parks:

• More wooded and secluded than a typical city park
• Less commercial and built-up than some larger regional attractions
• Focused on passive recreation (walking, observing, learning) rather than sports

If you’ve already explored Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, Sweetwater Creek, or Arabia Mountain, Reynolds Nature Preserve is a quieter alternative with shorter, easy-to-moderate trails and fewer crowds.

Trails and Hiking at Reynolds Nature Preserve

The preserve features a network of well-marked nature trails that loop through forests, meadows, and around ponds. Exact route names and distances can change over time, but most visitors encounter a mix of:

• Short loop trails suitable for families and casual walkers
• Longer interconnected paths for those wanting to explore most of the property
• Unpaved natural-surface trails (dirt, roots, and some rocks) typical of metro Atlanta woods

What to Expect on the Trails

Common features along the paths include:

• Gentle hills – rolling terrain, but generally not strenuous
• Creek crossings and small bridges
• Boardwalk-style sections in wetter areas (varies by trail)
• Shaded routes – nice in the summer, but trails can get muddy after rain

Many Atlanta hikers use Reynolds Nature Preserve as:

• A low-pressure introduction to hiking for kids or beginners
• A place for short evening or weekend walks after work
• A training spot for longer hikes, without driving far into the mountains

💡 Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes with traction, especially after rain. Trails are not paved, and some sections can be slick.

Wildlife and Nature Viewing

As part of the Nature Centers and Wildlife scene near Atlanta, Reynolds Nature Preserve is known for:

• Birdwatching – songbirds, woodpeckers, owls, and seasonal migrants
• Amphibians and reptiles – frogs and turtles near the ponds, and occasionally snakes
• Small mammals – squirrels, raccoons, rabbits; deer may occasionally be seen
• Native plants – oaks, pines, wildflowers, and understory shrubs typical of Atlanta’s Piedmont zone

Because the preserve is relatively quiet compared to busier city parks, many visitors report:

• Hearing bird calls clearly along the trails
• Seeing turtles sunning on logs in warmer months
• Spotting wildflowers during spring

If you’re interested in urban ecology or teaching kids about local habitats, Reynolds Nature Preserve provides a hands-on example of native forest and wetland environments without leaving the metro area.

Educational and Nature Center Features

Reynolds Nature Preserve is managed as an environmental education site, often connected with Clayton County Parks and Recreation programming.

Depending on current operations and season, you may find:

• A small visitor/education center or office where staff coordinate programs
• Interpretive signage along trails explaining plants, animals, and ecological concepts
• Guided walks, educational programs, or school field trips coordinated through the county

If you live in the Atlanta area and have school-aged children, it can be worth checking whether:

• Clayton County schools or local groups use the preserve for field trips
• There are public events, such as nature walks, birding days, or seasonal programs

Because offerings can change over time, it’s a good idea to:

• Call the Clayton County Parks and Recreation department
• Ask about current programs at Reynolds Nature Preserve, hours, and any group-use policies

Facilities, Amenities, and Accessibility

Reynolds Nature Preserve is intentionally low-key. Amenities can be simpler than at large Atlanta city parks, but typically include:

• Parking lot near the entrance
• Marked trailheads and maps posted onsite
• Benches or rest spots along some trails
• Restrooms near the main entrance or office area (hours may be limited)

Accessibility Notes

• Trails are mostly natural surface, not paved multi-use paths
• Not all areas will be wheelchair or stroller friendly, especially after rain
• Some short, flatter sections near the entrance may be easier to navigate, but conditions vary

If accessibility is a priority, you may want to:

• Call ahead to ask about barrier-free areas
• Pair a shorter visit here with a more accessible paved path, such as sections of the Atlanta BeltLine, Grant Park, or Piedmont Park, depending on your location

When to Visit: Seasons and Best Times of Day

Reynolds Nature Preserve is enjoyable much of the year, but your experience can differ by season:

Spring (March–May)

• Wildflowers and fresh foliage
• Comfortable temperatures for hiking
• Good for birdwatching as migratory species pass through

Summer (June–August)

• Very shaded, which helps with Atlanta’s heat
• Expect humidity, insects, and thicker vegetation
• Bring water and bug protection

Fall (September–November)

• Cooler weather and colorful foliage
• One of the best times for longer walks
• Trails can be leaf-covered; watch footing

Winter (December–February)

• Quieter scenery, but better visibility into the forest
• Good for spotting birds and animal tracks
• Can be muddy after winter rain

Time of day also matters:

• Morning – Cooler, often better for wildlife viewing
• Late afternoon/early evening – Good for quick nature breaks after work or school
• Avoid visiting after dark – Most nature preserves close by dusk for safety and wildlife protection

Simple Visitor Snapshot for Atlanta Residents

Planning Your Visit From Atlanta

Here are a few practical steps to make your trip smoother:

1. Check current hours and rules

   • Look up Clayton County Parks and Recreation – Reynolds Nature Preserve for the most current schedule.
   • Ask specifically about: hours, pet policies, group visits, and any temporary closures.

2. Plan your route and timing

   • Use a map app from your Atlanta address to 5665 Reynolds Road, Morrow, GA 30260.
   • Build in extra time during rush hour on I-75.

3. Pack lightly but smart

   • Water bottle
   • Comfortable walking shoes
   • Basic sun and insect protection
   • Small daypack if you plan to stay a few hours

4. Combine with other south-side activities
   Nearby options include:

   • Southlake Mall for food or shopping before/after your hike
   • Clayton State University Lake areas (where allowed) for a short walk
   • Other Clayton County parks if you’re exploring the area more broadly

How Reynolds Nature Preserve Fits Into Atlanta’s Outdoors Scene

For someone based in or visiting Atlanta, Reynolds Nature Preserve is:

• Closer than North Georgia mountain trails, but more natural and secluded than many in-city parks
• A good alternative to crowded weekend spots, especially if you live or stay on the south side of the metro
• A convenient site for short nature breaks, family walks, and informal outdoor learning

If you’re building a regular outdoor routine in Atlanta, you might rotate between:

• Reynolds Nature Preserve – quiet, wooded, educational feel
• Local city parks – such as Grant Park, Westside Park, or Piedmont Park, for paved paths and amenities
• Regional nature areas – such as Sweetwater Creek, Arabia Mountain, or the Chattahoochee River corridor for longer or more challenging hikes

Used this way, Reynolds Nature Preserve becomes a low-stress, nearby option that helps you stay connected to nature without leaving the Atlanta metro area.