Green Tree Nature Center

This center is an oasis of wildlife in the heart of a suburban area, providing a quick getaway to a natural plant and animal habitat.

Located in the heart of Green Tree at the corner of Hillcrest Ave. and Crestmont Dr., the Green Tree Nature Center is easily accessible for a quick reset—whether an early-morning visit, a lunch break or an after-work walk to get your steps in.

The 18-acre oasis features plenty of native plants and flora in its forested area, along with lots of wildlife. On any given day, you might see rabbits, gray squirrels, gray foxes, white-tailed deer, and a menagerie of beautiful birds, including northern cardinals, blue jays, mourning doves, Baltimore orioles, great horned owls and maybe even a wild turkey.

The property features natural streams, including a salamander stream where you can see the tiny amphibians up close and personal. In the forested areas you might cross paths with a harmless ribbon snake. There are many trails to choose from, where you can stroll an easy mile through the forest.

Dogs are permitted on the property, but they should be on a leash. Be sure to clean up after your pet!

Spotted lanternflies have been seen in the area. This is an invasive species from Asia that can be detrimental to maple trees, black walnut, birch and willow, which they will feed upon. If you happen to see a lanternfly, please kill it. If everyone does this, it will help keep their numbers down and protect our native tree population.

If you’ve only driven past the Green Tree Nature Center and never stopped to explore this local treasure, give it a try. You may even see some of your friends and neighbors (the two-legged variety, but also the wild ones that live in the park!).

Follow the center on Facebook at facebook.com/greentreenaturecenter. For more information, visit greentreeboro.com/departments/recreation/parks,_pavilions___facilities.php.