Big Trees Forest Preserve wilderness guide
Forest Preserve · GA

Big Trees Forest Preserve

Big Trees Forest Preserve is a small yet intriguing natural area offering walking paths and opportunities for quiet reflection amidst a suburban landscape.

Forest Preserve302+ Trails

Designation

Forest Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

30

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Big Trees Forest Preserve

Big Trees Forest Preserve is a small yet intriguing natural area offering walking paths and opportunities for quiet reflection amidst a suburban landscape.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Big Trees Forest Preserve is a 30-acre nature area located in the city of Sandy Springs, Georgia. This urban forest offers an escape into the natural world, showcasing beautiful tree specimens, some towering over 100 feet tall. The preserve harbors a diverse ecosystem, with active wildlife that includes deer, birds, and small mammals, delighting nature enthusiasts. Historically, the preserve has provided both preservation of natural resources and a recreational space for the local community. Visitors can enjoy well-maintained trails perfect for walking, running, or peaceful retreats away from the city's hustle. The preserve is also home to the Chattahoochee River watershed, which provides essential water quality benefits to the region. Key recreation opportunities include tranquil walks along its quiet paths, nature study, or simply unwinding under the canopy of towering trees. The peaceful atmosphere and ecological diversity make it a beloved spot for both casual tourists and locals seeking a serene environment for outdoor activities.

Field Guide · Forest Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Big Trees Forest Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Dense tree canopy providing shade and a peaceful setting.✦ Diverse bird species that attract birdwatchers year-round.✦ Walking trails offering easy and moderate difficulty levels.✦ Educational signage and small outdoor classroom settings.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Big Trees Forest Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Big Trees Forest Preserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Big Trees Forest Preserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Big Trees Forest Preserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Big Trees Forest Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with parking lot available.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Big Trees Forest Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Sandy Springs, Georgia
⌖ 2.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sandy Springs, Georgia

Sandy Springs offers a perfect blend of nature and suburbia with kayaking on the Chattahoochee River, hiking lush trails, and a vibrant community with year-round events.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Roswell, Georgia
⌖ 4.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roswell, Georgia

Roswell, Georgia offers scenic river trails, historic ruins, and family-friendly parks perfect for hiking, biking, and paddling adventures. Accessible and charming, it’s a great base for exploring the Chattahoochee River corridor outdoors.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Peachtree Corners, Georgia
⌖ 8.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Peachtree Corners, Georgia

Peachtree Corners offers easy access to biking and hiking trails, paddling on the Chattahoochee River, and peaceful parks perfect for outdoor family activities. Ideal for visitors seeking suburban nature adventures just outside Atlanta.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Alpharetta, Georgia
⌖ 9.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Alpharetta, Georgia

Alpharetta offers easy access to outdoor trails, parks, and waterways just north of Atlanta. Enjoy hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching year-round with well-maintained greenways and natural preserves.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Norcross, Georgia
⌖ 9.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Norcross, Georgia

Norcross, Georgia, is a charming gateway for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching near Atlanta. With scenic parks and river access, it offers a refreshing nature escape within a quaint town setting.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Marietta, Georgia
⌖ 10.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marietta, Georgia

Marietta, Georgia offers a blend of outdoor adventure and Civil War history. Hike scenic trails, bike the Silver Comet Trail, or paddle nearby lakes while enjoying the charm of a historic Southern town.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Big Trees Forest Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Mom & Me Drip Bear Edition: Messy, bold, and made to keep.
ADVEXPEDITION
Sandy Springs, Georgia
WorkshopADV Bookable

Mom & Me Drip Bear Edition: Messy, bold, and made to keep.

A 60-minute studio workshop in Sandy Springs where mothers and kids create two 9-inch drip bears and a shared canvas—this guide explains what to expect, what’s provided, and how the session flows.

WorkshopPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Blacklight Bears: Craft a Neon-Glowing Bear in Sandy Springs
ADVEXPEDITION
Sandy Springs, Georgia
WorkshopADV Bookable

Blacklight Bears: Craft a Neon-Glowing Bear in Sandy Springs

A 60-minute, hands-on workshop at The Splatter Studio where you design a one-of-a-kind bear in a blacklight studio—this guide lays out what to expect, what’s included, and who this is best for.

WorkshopPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Liquid Light: A Glow Acrylic Pour Workshop in Sandy Springs
ADVEXPEDITION
Sandy Springs, Georgia
WorkshopADV Bookable

Liquid Light: A Glow Acrylic Pour Workshop in Sandy Springs

A 60-minute studio workshop at The Splatter Studio — Sandy Springs where participants layer and flow paint to produce one-of-a-kind marbled canvases, ideal for first-timers and anyone after a relaxed, mesmerizing creative session.

WorkshopPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip