Skip to main content
Fabick Nature Preserve park in Fenton, MO
Photo: K O
View of Fabick Nature Preserve in Fenton, MO
Photo: K O
View of Fabick Nature Preserve in Fenton, MO
Photo: Chuck Collis

Fabick Nature Preserve

4.5(24 reviews)FreeNature
🕑 1.5-2 hours👶 Best for ages 4-12. The moderate trails are manageable for preschoolers who can walk independently, while elementary-aged kids will love the adventure of wildlife spotting and exploring different ecosystems. Teens interested in photography or nature studies will also appreciate the preserve's biodiversity.

About

Fabick Nature Preserve offers 45 acres of natural beauty where families can explore winding trails through woodlands and wetlands while spotting local wildlife. This peaceful Fenton gem provides an easy escape into nature with well-maintained paths perfect for little explorers to discover frogs, birds, and seasonal wildflowers.

Highlights

  • Multiple interconnected trails through diverse habitats including woodlands and wetlands
  • Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities including deer, birds, frogs, and turtles
  • Educational signage along trails teaching about local ecosystems
  • Seasonal wildflower displays in spring and summer
  • Peaceful natural setting perfect for unplugged family time

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Bring binoculars and a nature journal for kids to sketch or note the wildlife they spot,the wetlands area is especially rich with bird species
  2. 2.Wear waterproof boots during spring and after rain, as the wetland trails can get muddy but that's when amphibian viewing is best
  3. 3.Visit early morning for the most active wildlife viewing when deer, rabbits, and songbirds are most visible
  4. 4.Download a free plant identification app before visiting to make trail walks more educational and engaging for older kids
  5. 5.Pack bug spray during warmer months, especially if exploring near the wetland areas where mosquitoes can be present

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon on weekdays offers the quietest experience and best wildlife activity. Spring (April-May) is ideal for wildflowers and migrating birds, while fall provides stunning foliage and comfortable hiking temperatures without the summer humidity.

What to Know

Admission is free with parking available on-site. This is a natural preserve without facilities, so plan accordingly,no restrooms, playgrounds, or food vendors are available. Trails are natural surface paths, so strollers are not recommended.

Seasonal Notes

Spring brings wildflowers and active wildlife emerging from winter. Summer can be humid with more insects but offers lush green scenery. Fall features beautiful foliage colors and comfortable temperatures. Winter trails remain open for those dressed warmly, offering a quiet, serene experience with visible animal tracks in snow.

Nearby Eats

Stop by Fenton Bar & Grill (1.5 miles away) for classic American fare with a kids menu, or visit Bandana's Bar-B-Q (2 miles) for family-friendly barbecue that's always a hit with children.

More Activities Near Fenton

Ice Cream

Ollie's Frozen Custard

$

Ollie's Frozen Custard has been a Fenton family tradition since 1986, serving up rich, creamy frozen custard that's denser and smoother than regular ice cream. Kids love choosing from the colorful array of concretes (custard blended with mix-ins), while parents appreciate the quality ingredients and reasonable prices at this locally-owned stand that captures that classic summer treat experience.

Adventure

Meramec Greenway

Free

Meramec Greenway offers families a scenic, stroller-friendly paved trail perfect for introducing kids to outdoor adventures along the beautiful Meramec River. With relatively flat terrain and easy access points, it's ideal for family bike rides, scooter outings, or leisurely nature walks where kids can spot wildlife and explore the riverbanks safely.

Park

Fenton City Park

4.7Free

Fenton City Park is a sprawling community gem that offers something for every family member, from energetic toddlers to adventurous tweens. With multiple playgrounds, spacious walking trails perfect for stroller walks or bike rides, and plenty of open green space for impromptu soccer games or kite flying, this park has become a go-to destination for St. Louis area families seeking outdoor fun without the downtown drive.

Trampoline Park

Sky Zone Fenton

4.3$$

Sky Zone Fenton is an indoor trampoline park that transforms active play into an extreme adventure for the whole family. With wall-to-wall trampolines, challenging ninja warrior courses, foam pits for safe aerial tricks, and high-energy dodgeball courts, this climate-controlled facility keeps kids bouncing and burning energy rain or shine. The variety of activities means there's something exciting for every skill level and personality type.