Brentwood was once filled with horse farms and river bottom.
Now there are big, beautiful houses as far as the eye can see.
When the subdivisions start closing in on you, head to Brentwood’s unexpected wild places.
Where do you see the animals near Brentwood, Tennessee?
1. Radnor Lake is Tennessee’s first natural area.
It’s only a few miles down Franklin Rd. toward Nashville.
Did you know you can spot eagles there? It’s true!
My family often spots otters and turtles on our hikes, but we haven’t been lucky enough to see an eagle…yet!
2. Deerwood Arboretum is another wild place preserved in Brentwood. Once the city’s old sewage treatment plant, these 27 acres border the Little Harpeth River.
Water plus the tangled brush make a glorious bird habitat. On our last trip, the kids and I spotted a fox. Too bad I couldn’t grab the camera in time!
3. Owls Hill Nature Sanctuary is one of Brentwood’s secret spots, hidden in plain sight at Hillsboro Rd. and Old Hickory Blvd. Owned by Cheekwood, this 160 acres is open only during special programs.
Check out the virtual visit to see the wildlife you can find on your next trip! Here’s a list of programs in which kids, families, and adults can participate.
4. Warner Parks just outside Brentwood boast a different wild landscape: steep hills and valleys, with the same Little Harpeth River that runs through our city. Many Brentwood residents I know go there every weekend to hike and walk their dogs.
I don’t think I’ve ever once been to Warner Parks without spotting a deer. On our last visit, we saw 3 wild turkeys! Stop by the Warner Park Nature Center on weekdays to consult free nature guides and get more information on the wildlife you’ll find nearby.
5. Tower Park is the 47-acre space beneath the WSM radio tower at Concord Rd. Didn’t even know that was a park? Me, either!
A naturalist mom told me the little creek that runs through Tower Park is the best place for kids to find bugs and frogs. Wear creek shoes and prepare to get muddy!
The Fun Times Guide To Franklin has a great post on Williamson Co. wildlife that you might spot in your own backyard!
I'm a wife, mom of 4, and resident of Brentwood, Tennessee. I love finding fun new things for my family to see and do in Brentwood and the Nashville area!
