Maryland Department of Natural Resources

​​Nature Play Spaces Pattern Book Home 
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Nature Play Spaces - Varying Terrain

By varying terrain in a space you not only create visual interest, you can create a space that is more physically challenging. Climbing up or rolling down a hill, jumping onto rocks and other surfaces can spur motor skill development as well as balance.

path leading up to a bridge​

Bridge winding through​ wetland

Rock outcrop into a shallow pond

Rocks for climbing

Open field​

Gathering spaces

Sand area with tall poles as obsitcals

Grassy mound surrounded by sand

Steps and planters​

Outdoor classroom

Poles, stones and hiding place at Greenbrier State Park

Creating terrain

Creating terrain with materials​

Creating terrain with materials​

Slides, climbing rocks and an old tree

Creating terrain with materials

Creating terrain with materials​

Creating terrain with materials

Natural amphitheater

Creating terrain, natural amphitheater

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