Knoxville is a treasure trove of outdoor experiences that offer more than just fresh air — they nurture curiosity, build confidence, and connect children to the natural world.
From calming botanical gardens to high-flying treetop adventures, the city is home to a variety of programs that engage kids in hands-on learning, physical activity, and environmental stewardship. These destinations help children explore new interests, challenge themselves, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.
To create this guide, we gathered input from parents, reviewed online ratings and testimonials, and explored each location’s offerings through firsthand reporting and research. The following list includes outdoor and nature-based programs that families in Knoxville recommend most. We verified each spot’s classes, schedules, and amenities to ensure up-to-date and useful information for parents planning their next adventure.
Here’s a look at some of the most engaging outdoor and nature-focused programs for children and families in Knoxville.
Ijams Nature Center
Ijams Nature Center offers hands-on environmental education and outdoor adventure programming for children and families. From wildlife encounters to nature hikes and paddling excursions, Ijams encourages kids to explore, learn, and connect with nature in meaningful ways.
What to know:
- Kid-Friendly Trails & Facilities: Many trails are stroller-accessible and clearly marked, making it easy for families with young children. Bathrooms, picnic areas, and shaded rest spots are conveniently located.
- Wildlife Encounters: Children can meet animal ambassadors like owls, snakes, and turtles in educational presentations or visit the nature center exhibit hall.
- Outdoor Activities: Canoe and kayak rentals are available on Mead’s Quarry Lake, with beginner-friendly options and safety gear included.
- Education Programs: Ijams offers homeschool sessions, scout programs, camps, after-school programs, and field trips tailored to different age groups with certified educators leading each activity.
- Nature Birthday Parties: Affordable birthday packages include nature hikes, scavenger hunts, and access to party spaces.
- Eco-Focused Values: The center promotes sustainability, conservation, and stewardship, giving kids real-world insight into protecting nature.
Real Review:
Kingsport dad Travis White, shared his review of Ijams with Tennessee Parent.
We visited Ijams for Spring Break. The whole family loved the experience. From hiking trails to a nature play area it was great all around. You could easily spend multiple days exploring the trails.
Location: 2915 Island Home Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920
Website: ijams.org
Phone: (865) 577-4717
Ages/Programs: Ages and development determine accessibility and participation
Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum
The Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum invites families into a magical world of gardens, historic stone walls, and wide open spaces to explore. Their children’s programming emphasizes sensory exploration, plant science, and creative play.
What to know:
- Totally Free Admission: Open 365 days a year with no admission fee, making it a go-to spot for spontaneous outings and low-cost enrichment.
- Sensory-Friendly Spaces: The garden’s Children’s Discovery Garden features a butterfly house, dig pit, and interactive garden beds designed to engage all five senses.
- Self-Guided Learning: QR codes on plant signage encourage older children to dive deeper into botany through mobile-based exploration.
- Event Calendar: Hosts frequent family events like Storybook Trails, Fairy Garden Walks, and fall festivals with crafts and music.
- Photography-Friendly: The scenic views make this a popular spot for family photos, graduation portraits, and creative play with nature as the backdrop.
- Volunteer Opportunities for Teens: Teens can earn service hours while learning gardening, teamwork, and leadership skills.
What families are saying:
One Google reviewer shared,
What a hidden gem! The beautiful Botanical Garden is a free magical adventure. I enjoyed getting lost in the bamboo forest. We found the secret garden with a cute little praying mantis enjoying some sunshine. Cool photo opportunity with creative props like benches with butterfly wings, a giant nest and egg oversized lawn chair and tons of beautiful flowers and sculptures.
Location: 2743 Wimpole Ave, Knoxville, TN 37914
Website: knoxgarden.org
Phone: (865) 862-8717
Knoxville Adventure Collective
Knoxville Adventure Collective is an ideal launchpad for kids and families eager to try outdoor sports in a safe, guided way. The collective offers paddling, biking, and hiking experiences along Knoxville’s urban wilderness and rivers.
What to know:
- Beginner-Friendly Equipment: Offers kid-sized bikes, life jackets, and paddleboards, plus instruction designed for young learners with a focus on safety and fun.
- Urban Wilderness Hub: Located on the riverfront with direct access to scenic trails and water routes, making it a great starting point for family adventures.
- No Experience Needed: Classes and rentals are tailored for all levels, and staff are patient with first-timers, including children with sensory or motor challenges.
- Flexible Family Packages: Affordable family bundle pricing is available for bikes, boats, or combined activities — ideal for weekend outings or special occasions.
- Seasonal Camps & Clinics: Occasional summer camps and after-school outdoor skills clinics build confidence, resilience, and a love of the outdoors.
- Parking & Convenience: Free parking, nearby restrooms, and easy-to-navigate rental process make visits smooth for families.
Location: 900 Volunteer Landing Ln, Knoxville, TN 37915
Website: knoxvilleadventure.com
Phone: 865-228-8424
What families are saying:
One Google reviewer shared,
Absolutely loved our experience with Knoxville Adventure Collective. Andy was awesome and was very detailed about the river and his directions for us as a self guided trip. Loved the shop, the atmosphere, hospitality and the vibes. It was everything we wanted and more. Definitely go to KAC when you’re in town.
Ages/Programs: Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, biking, yoga participation based on age
Navitat Knoxville
Navitat offers a high-flying treetop adventure park that’s perfect for thrill-seeking kids and teens. Their aerial obstacle courses and zip lines combine excitement with physical activity and problem-solving.
What to know:
- Kid-Specific Courses: The beginner aerial trail is designed for younger participants (as young as 7), with low-height obstacles and staff assistance.
- Built-in Safety Systems: All participants are secured in continuous belay systems, and staff monitor the course from the ground to ensure safety.
- Physical & Mental Growth: Activities help kids build confidence, focus, and persistence as they face and overcome real (but safe) challenges.
- Family Bonding: Families are encouraged to climb together, making it a shared experience that builds trust and teamwork.
- Location Perks: As part of the Ijams Nature Center campus, families can combine a Navitat visit with a nature hike or picnic.
- Reservations Required: To avoid wait times and ensure proper harness fitting and staff availability, booking ahead is recommended.
Real Review:
I am excited to share my own experience with Navitate in Knoxville.
I took my three kids ages 12 years, 8 years, and 6 years at the time, to Navitat this spring. It was absolutely one of the coolest experiences we’ve had anywhere. While the price was a little higher than we are used to, the experience was completely worth it. Two full hours of climbing, ziplining, high ropes courses, and adventure. There were paths that my youngest could do with assistance and course lines that my oldest could do alone. Here are some of my favorite photos from the day.
Location: 2915 Island Home Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920
Website: navitatknoxville.com
Phone: (855) 628-4828
Ages/Programs: 6 and up can complete the course with an adult’s assistance.
