Old Forest State Natural Area

Old Forest State Natural Area protects 126 acres of Overton Park's old-growth forest and has a numbered interpretive loop plus natural-surface trail connections. Navigate to the exact Old Forest State Natural Area pin rather than the general Overton Park marker. Download the official interpretive map before entering. Trails can be rooted, muddy, uneven, and confusing at junctions; stay on marked paths, carry water, and leave plants and wildlife undisturbed.

Limited lots are available at Rainbow Lake Playground, Abe Goodman Golf Clubhouse, and East Parkway Pavilion, with additional legal spaces on park roads. Zoo demand and major events can fill spaces; never drive or park on grass or inside Old Forest. Navigate to the exact Old Forest State Natural Area pin rather than the general Overton Park marker. Download the official interpretive map before entering. Trails can be rooted, muddy, uneven, and confusing at junctions; stay on marked paths, carry water, and leave plants and wildlife undisturbed.

Use the forest only during Overton Park's dawn-to-dusk hours and obey posted weather, trail, habitat, or maintenance closures.

Restrooms are at Rainbow Lake Pavilion and East Parkway Pavilion; they unlock at dawn and lock at dusk. The Abe Goodman Golf Clubhouse also has restrooms during its business hours.

Forest and trail access are free.

More than eight miles of routes include paved park connections and natural-surface Old Forest trails with roots, mud, and uneven ground. The Hampline trailhead connects toward the Shelby Farms Greenline network.

Only inside the fenced Overton Bark dog park. Dogs are welcome elsewhere but must remain leashed, including on trails, lawns, roads, and around the playground. Separately operated buildings, beaches, gardens, and attractions can set stricter rules.

Old Forest State Natural Area protects 126 acres of Overton Park's old-growth forest and has a numbered interpretive loop plus natural-surface trail connections. Rainbow Lake Playground is the main family play destination, with its own limited lot and nearby pavilion restrooms. The park also includes picnic areas, trails, the Greensward, formal garden, and cultural institutions.

Download the official interpretive map before entering. Trails can be rooted, muddy, uneven, and confusing at junctions; stay on marked paths, carry water, and leave plants and wildlife undisturbed.