Cultivating Wonder, Securing the Future
Since 1973, The Friends of Sandy Creek Nature Center has stood as a guardian of our local ecosystems, bridging the gap between community and conservation by funding the specialized exhibits, education, and restoration that secure the future of these 225 vital acres.
OUR MISSION
Connecting Our Community to Nature
Friends of Sandy Creek Nature Center (SCNC, Inc.) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to championing environmental education and preservation in Athens, Georgia. While the physical Nature Center facility, its beautiful trail systems, and daily recreational programming are managed by the Athens-Clarke County Department of Leisure Services, our mission is to fund, promote, and protect this invaluable space for generations to come.
Your Impact in Action
We believe that a community connected to nature is a vibrant, thriving community. From funding the magical nature experiences that inspire young minds to underwriting significant trail expansions, the Friends organization turns public support into tangible environmental stewardship. Every acre protected and every exhibit upgraded expands the ways our local community can gather, learn, and grow together.
INFRASTRUCTURE
Replacing aging wooden walkways with sustainable, high-durability composite materials to ensure year-round access to the North Wetlands.
EDUCATION
A safe, challenging natural play area and learning space made from organic materials for children to explore nature.
Join 200+ families supporting the sanctuary. Enjoy exclusive program previews and Frog Pond gift shop discounts.
Visit the Frog Pond Gift Shop
Enhance your next visit to the Education & Visitor Center by stopping by the Frog Pond Gift Shop. Run entirely to support our mission, every single purchase directly funds ongoing conservation projects, public programming, and campus improvements. It is the perfect place to find unique nature-inspired gifts while giving back to the green spaces you love.
Annual Traditions
Our seasonal events bring the Athens community together to celebrate outdoor recreation, support local wildlife education, and fundraise for crucial environmental improvements.
February
Warm up on the fully paved North Oconee Greenway with a timed community race that gives back.
September & October
Keep your backyard wildlife well-fed while directly supporting our educational programs.
Late October
Celebrate autumn with a family-friendly costume run along a certified Peachtree Qualifier course.
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Plan Your Visit
Location
205 Old Commerce Road
Athens, GA 30607
Center Hours
Tues-Sat: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Sun-Mon: Closed
Trails open seven days a week, sun up to sun down.