Photo: Lasondra Fields
Photo: Craig Bialy
Photo: Julie Piwaron
Lost Corner Preserve
★4.8(224 reviews)FreeNature
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 4-12. Younger elementary-aged children love the creek exploration and easy trails, while older kids appreciate the educational components and longer hiking opportunities. Toddlers can manage the easier paths with supervision, though a carrier might be helpful for the littlest ones.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
Lost Corner Preserve is a peaceful woodland gem tucked away in Sandy Springs, offering families a perfect escape into nature without leaving the city. Kids can explore winding forest trails, splash in the creek, and learn about local ecosystems through educational signage scattered throughout this beautifully maintained preserve.
Highlights
- ✓Creek exploration and wading opportunities in shallow, child-friendly waters
- ✓Educational nature signage that turns hikes into learning adventures
- ✓Well-maintained forest trails perfect for beginner hikers
- ✓Wildlife spotting including birds, turtles, and occasional deer
- ✓Peaceful woodland atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring a creek exploration kit with nets, buckets, and containers - the creek access is shallow and perfect for catching tadpoles and observing aquatic life
- 2.Wear water shoes or sandals you don't mind getting muddy, as kids will inevitably want to wade into the creek
- 3.Visit after a dry spell rather than following heavy rain - the trails can get quite muddy and the creek may be too high for safe exploration
- 4.Pack bug spray during warmer months, especially if visiting during evening hours when mosquitoes are most active
- 5.The preserve is genuinely hidden - look for the small entrance sign on Brandon Mill Road and don't give up if you think you've missed it
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings or late afternoons offer the most peaceful experience with fewer visitors. Spring (March-May) is ideal when wildflowers bloom and the creek is active but manageable. Early fall provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage without the summer heat.
What to Know
This preserve is free to visit with limited parking at the trailhead - arrive early on weekends to secure a spot. There are no restrooms or food facilities, so plan accordingly and pack out all trash.
Seasonal Notes
Spring offers the most active creek flow and wildflower displays. Summer visits are best done early morning or evening to avoid heat. Fall brings stunning foliage. Winter hiking is pleasant on mild days, though the creek may be less appealing for wading.
Follow Lost Corner Preserve
Nearby Eats
Head to Woody's Cheesesteaks (about 3 miles away) for hearty sandwiches the whole family will enjoy, or try Marco's Pizza on Roswell Road for a quick, kid-approved meal after your nature adventure.
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