Zonolite Park

From Industrial Wasteland to Urban Oasis

Tucked away in Atlanta's Morningside neighborhood, Zonolite Park spans a modest 13 acres with a not-so-modest backstory. Named after the insulation company that once operated here, this green space has undergone quite the transformation.

Back in 2009, this was just an abandoned plot of land - contaminated with asbestos and overrun by invasive plants. Not exactly picnic material. But thanks to determined neighbors and the South Fork Conservancy, the site caught the attention of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and DeKalb County, who invested $2 million in 2011 to clean up the toxic mess.

The metamorphosis is remarkable. What was once an industrial dumping ground filled with trash and sludge in the 1970s is now a thriving natural space enjoyed by many locals.

Nature's Comeback Story

After the cleanup, the park underwent thoughtful ecological restoration. Sylvatica Studio's Susan Stainback designed a clever grading system with a sloping meadow and retention pond that naturally filters rainwater before it reaches the creek - pretty ingenious environmental engineering.

Today, you'll come across a surprising variety of ecosystems packed into this small space: an old-growth forest with trees that have seen decades come and go, a bright sunny meadow ideal for throwing a frisbee, gentle rivulets of water, and a charming wetland garden. The creek features sandy, beach-like banks where you can get close to the water and find a peaceful moment away from Atlanta's hustle.

The community garden adds another layer of charm to the park, well-tended but not overly manicured. There's a deliberate wildness to Zonolite - it's maintained just enough while preserving its natural character.

Wild Encounters on Urban Trails

The park offers about 1.5 miles of well-kept gravel trails that wind through its diverse landscapes. Despite being in the city, you might be surprised by the wildlife here - deer casually roaming around, fish darting in the creek, frogs croaking from hidden spots, and birds providing the soundtrack.

Keep your eyes open for a pair of Great Blue Herons that have made this place home, along with various songbirds and hawks patrolling the skies. There's something unexpected about spotting deer in such a small urban park - a common surprise for first-time visitors.

Though compact, the trails meander through such varied environments that the park feels much larger than its actual footprint. Regular visitors appreciate how new pathways have been added over time, keeping their explorations fresh.

Small Park, Big Offerings

For its size, Zonolite packs in plenty of amenities. Near the parking area, you'll come across a covered pavilion with picnic tables - meant for a lunch break or small gathering.

The open meadow gives you space to toss a frisbee, fly a kite, or simply spread a blanket for an afternoon of cloud-watching or reading. Around the park, thoughtfully placed benches invite you to sit and take in the surroundings.

This is definitely a dog-friendly spot - you'll likely encounter locals walking their four-legged friends along the trails. The park also attracts those seeking a quiet place for meditation, nature observation, or participating in environmental volunteer work like creek cleanups.

Part of Atlanta's Green Network

Zonolite doesn't exist in isolation - it's a key piece in a larger green corridor that includes the Morningside Nature Preserve and Herbert Taylor Park-Daniel Johnson Nature Preserve. It represents an important link in the South Fork Conservancy's vision to connect trails and neighborhoods along Peachtree Creek's southern fork.

This little park provides a hidden retreat for Atlanta's nature lovers. It offers an escape from urban life without having to leave the city limits, with surprising biodiversity just minutes from downtown. Zonolite demonstrates what environmental restoration and community dedication can accomplish.