audubon naturalist society woodend sanctuary

We live close by this all-too-often overlooked scenic spot. In these days when folks are worried about keepinmg their kids under lock and key, this is one area where they can wander about safely. There's a lovely walking trail, a lively pond, and plenty of wildlife. It's a treat in all seasons. Parents should take note of the great schedule of outdoor summer classes available for kids there. It's also a lovely venue for an outdoor wedding!

This is a serene, if not all that well groomed, area of considerable natural habitat affording an opportunity for all manner of communing with the ecology. There are hardwood groves, streams, ponds, and an amazing variety of ferns, vines, and other woodland flora.Granted, its popularity seems to derive mainly from its suitability as a venue for weddings, reunions, and such private social functions, but the other opportunities afforded should by no means be underestimated. Simply walking through the grounds with children (or, for that matter, grandchildren) and watching while they quickly evolve from stumble- bumbling to adroitly roaming the trails is a joy. Once adept at traversing the trails and stream banks, bringing along some picnic snacks is always a huge hit. There are many spots where the trail opens out equipped with seating and tables, so not to worry about wearing them out, or vice-versa.The pre-school is oriented very much to developing an appreciation for the out-of-doors so lacking in politically correct child rearing embraced by many these days. Stephanie and her staff are wonderful with the tykes, and they in turn, appear to be engrossed in the program.

Our wedding took place on July the 4th weekend which is a very busy time to have a wedding we found out, but Rebecca and others went our of their way to make sure our wedding was extra special. We arrived at 8am before the wedding at 10am and to our delight there were deer on the property, a perfect setting for our wedding as we really enjoy wildlife. As guests arrived, some as early as 9am, Andrew, the staff on duty was excellent in helping get them situated as we were getting ready for the wedding with the minister. We had the wedding on the veranda which provided a lovely back drop, looking out over the property. The only negative was that by 10, it was getting rather warm outside and the fans had to be turned on, which mean hearing the ceremony was difficult for some of our guests. Looking back, now I wish we had planned it for 9am instead of ten, but hindsight is always better than foresight!

Beautiful location for a wedding! Wedding was in the garden with lunch on the patio of the house. Many flowering trees added to the beauty of the setting.

We like to picnic here often, and hike. Always deer around. Great photo ops. Take your trash with you.

Live less than a mile away from this local treasure, a very large parkland site that is worth visiting, including a shop with a terrific amount of nature-related items.

Woodend seems small yet is remarkably diverse--lots of lovely areas and settings, a variety of plants, a neat shop, a neat old building. And unless a school excursion is there, it rarely seems busy..

Woodend Sanctuary offers some fine nature walks during which it is often possible to see deer and other wildlife up close. Regrettably, the beehives that once graced the beginning of the walking area are gone, victims of disease. The walks are over some uneven ground but unless one really is infirm or tires very easily one should not flinch in exploring. Being contiguous to Rock Creek Park ensures that wild animals have easy access to the sanctuary and they seem to feel at home there. There is also a nice shop with a good selection of publications, various garden accessories such as bird feeders, bat houses, etc., and, very importantly, a sales program for a variety of bird seed/food in convenient sizes, at reasonable prices (discounts for Audubon Soc. members). It is also a popular place for weddings and occasional other celebrations.

ANS is great! The grounds are pleasant, they offer many educational programs for all ages and all lengths form an hour or two to two week trips abroad. Staff are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and just plain fun to interact with.