New Nature Play stations open at Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park

BINGHAMTON — A trip to the Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park is not only about seeing remarkable animals, but also about playing outdoors and using your imagination, the zoo contends in a news release.

The Binghamton Zoo announced it has created Nature Play stations that “allow visitors of all ages to connect with nature in a fun and active environment.” Nature Play is nature-based, unstructured play that gives children the chance to play outdoors in a safe area.

Real nature play includes climbing trees, collecting leaves and rocks, digging in the dirt for buried treasure, splashing around in a creek, and other outdoor play. 

“Nature play areas have been found to reduce symptoms of attention deficit and depression in those who engage, use their imaginations, and cooperate with others in these areas,” the release noted.

Nature Play stations deployed around the zoo include:

• Nature Post: An activity station that includes a sand box, tic-tac-toe game, arts and crafts led by the zoo’s junior volunteers, and a vegetable/herb garden.

• Stream Table: Allow participants to learn about erosion and how water affects land.

• Chalk Art: Children can draw a picture on one of the flower chalkboards. 

• Eagle’s Nest: This wheelchair accessible, larger-than-life eagle’s nest is fun for all to enjoy. 

• Nature Loom: Visitors can weave natural materials such as sticks, flowers, branches, and leaves into this always-changing piece of art. 

The Binghamton Zoo (www.rossparkzoo.com) is located at 60 Morgan Road in Binghamton. General admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children ages 3-11. The admissions booth is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily and the zoo closes at 5 p.m.