Tuesday AM Mayfield

Let's meet at Mayfield Park and Preserve
3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703.
(There is usually a small creek crossing on the way to base camp—I usually wear rain boots so I can just walk straight through.)
WHAT TO EXPECT: Park in the main parking lot and meet us in the grassy area at the front left of the parking lot at 9:45-10am for quick introductions / trail talk (I will try really hard to get there at 9:45, but will definitely be there by 10). We will depart from that area to hike at around 10am. We will then hike to base camp, since it is child led most families arrive to base camp around 10:30am depending on how many detours their child(ren) takes. Once we arrive at base camp it's time to explore and play in nature. There are lots of fun places to explore near basecamp (large dirt hill, kid built fort, creek, "waterfall", cave, and cliffs to climb). After the kids have had a chance to explore and play more we gather for circle time, which is when we lay our blankets down, read some books, sing songs, and most people bring a picnic lunch to eat at this time. After circle time is the official end of Free Forest School but you are encouraged to stay and play for as long as you like.
SUGGESTED TO BRING: rain boots for splashing, picnic blanket, peanut free snack for sharing (if desired), lunch for yourself and your kid(s), spare change of clothes, sunblock, bug spray, and drinking water.
Please leave toys and strollers at home.
SUN/SHADE: The hike to base camp is completely shaded. Base Camp is also shaded. On the hike back to the car there is a small part of the trail that is completely in sun and then it becomes shaded again.
WATER: The water is not deep, anywhere from ankle deep to a foot or so. Flotation devices are not needed. Shoes that can get wet are encouraged. In order to get to base camp there is a creek that has to be crossed. There are stepping stones but depending on the water level those are sometimes underwater.
HIKE: The path is rocky and unlevel most of the hike. At least one water crossing. (Still a very doable short hike for small children)
BASE CAMP: We will be in a large open area with lots to explore nearby, including a "cave", creek, hills, cliffs, and a "waterfall".
Limit camera and cell phone use.
Still have questions? Just post in the event page or PM the host of the event.