Barfield Crescent Park

Nature Center Features

Nestled within Barfield Crescent Park in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, the Wilderness Station is a charming nature center and outdoor recreation hub spread across 275 acres of natural landscape. This spot is the headquarters for Outdoor Murfreesboro, a department of the local Parks and Recreation that's all about connecting people with nature through environmental education and outdoor adventures.

Step inside the nature center and you can find yourself face-to-face with some fascinating educational animals. From wise-looking owls and a majestic hawk to slithering snakes and peculiar bearded dragons, there's quite the menagerie to discover. The exhibits are interactive, and the staff members are knowledgeable and friendly, readily sharing information about local wildlife and ecosystems.

Educational Resources & Programs

One of the coolest offerings has to be the free educational backpacks you can check out during your visit. Each pack focuses on a different nature theme, making it easier for anyone - regardless of age - to connect with the natural world around them.

Year-round, the center hosts special events that bring nature to life. From World Turtle Day celebrations to various educational programs featuring hands-on activities, there's always something happening. These programs work well for families with curious kids, offering engaging learning opportunities in a fun environment.

Hiking Trails

Lacing through the property are approximately 5 miles of hiking trails that meander through hardwood forests, past limestone outcrops, and alongside the West Fork of the Stones River. Whether you're in the mood for a casual stroll or something more challenging, there's a trail that fits the bill.

As you wander these well-kept paths, you might stumble upon some fascinating features: a Civil War-era stone fence that whispers of history, limestone sinks that punctuate the landscape, and magnificent limestone rock formations that tell the tale of this area's ancient past. These formations create what looks like caves cutting into the forest floor, but they're actually revealing something even more fascinating - the floor of an ancient sea bed.

If you're short on time, the 2.6-mile nature trail offers an easy walk through tranquil surroundings where you might just spot some local wildlife going about their day.

Camping Opportunities

For those who want to extend their nature experience overnight, the Wilderness Station manages a backcountry campground about a mile from the main facility. It's a primitive site - accessible only by foot - and available to approved groups like scout troops, church youth groups, and college clubs.

Amenities

The Wilderness Station includes a quaint gift shop where you can pick up nature-themed toys, books, snacks, bird plushes, and even artwork by local artists. Need a space for a special gathering? The retreat room is available to rent for birthday parties, family reunions, or other events.

You'll come across clean facilities with restrooms and basic tables for a comfortable visit. There's also a small play area where kids can burn off some energy, and the whole park is dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend can enjoy the great outdoors alongside you.

Park Experience

What's perhaps most surprising about Barfield Crescent Park is how it manages to feel worlds away from the bustle of the city, despite being just off a main thoroughfare in Murfreesboro. It's a relatively quiet park - a pocket of serenity that's conveniently located within the city.

The park balances natural space with visitor amenities, making it suitable for nature walks, wildlife education, or as a venue for gatherings.