Locust Grove Nature Center — Attraction in North Bethesda

Update. Recently went back and all I could see is poison ivy! It’s everywhere. I felt sorry for the boys scouts running all over looking for something. It’s difficult avoiding it, and one can also be exposed to the urushiol oil without even having to touch the plant.

Review Beautiful trails, a bit of wilderness, though sad to see some apartment buildings peaking through the trees. The nature center puts emphasis on native plants, yay!, and has some bluebells planted by the center, but! Nearby is a fresh patch of the highly invasive pest of a plant that’s taking over the region (and beyond). Upon taking the trails, lesser celandine can be spotted all over the park. There is still hope for this place since the majority of the land still has some native spring bloomers. However, I sure hope the staff is aware and takes action towards preventing lesser celandine from taking over. Also spotted some poison ivy and periwinkles, also invasive. The creek looks somewhat unkempt, dead trees’ debris and lesser celandine already present...

We did our child’s 5th birthday party here for something different - and since we like walks in the woods as a family. Had never been to the nature center before our visit to scope it out, and the party itself of course.

It was fantastic! The staff were great to work with and super flexible and creative to help us find the perfect party for our child. (They have suggested themes but let us deviate with a fairy tale style themed walk)

The activity walk through the woods was exactly what we hoped for, and the space inside perfect. I think the party goers would’ve liked more time - but us parents thought the 2hrs were perfect.

Our only regret is we were so tired when it was all done we didn’t have the energy to explore the grounds on our own. So will definitely be doing that...

I discovered LGNC last year while looking for nature-centered adult programs and was delighted to learn about their fire-making classes, their wildflower walks, their adult hikes and all of the other wonderful programs they have for families and for adults alike. All of their staff are friendly, knowledgeable and so welcoming. I learn so much when I'm there!

I came for the nature, but I keep going back because of the sense of belonging I feel when I show up to learn about wildflowers, or when I stand on the back porch and watch the nuthatches at the feeders.

As a nature lover without kids, I hope they add to and continue their adult programming. This is a wonderful center with passionate, caring employees, and they deserve all the stars Google...