Bring your young explorers to Austin’s Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve for Tiny Footprints — an interactive outdoor program full of stories, crafts, and walks that bring nature to life for kids ages 4-7.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for young children with basic walking ability; parents should be prepared for light trail walking.
Wildlife
History
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve was established in 1974 to protect natural habitats amid Austin’s urban growth.
Conservation
The preserve focuses on habitat restoration and education programs to promote sustainable interaction with nature.
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
Bring your young explorers to Austin’s Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve for Tiny Footprints — an interactive outdoor program full of stories, crafts, and walks that bring nature to life for kids ages 4-7.
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve is a protected urban research and education site focused on conserving native Hill Country habitat and promoting public engagement with nature. Located in the Balcones Canyonlands near Austin, Wild Basin offers guided hikes, family programs, seasonal walks, speaker events, and creative workshops tailored to adults, teens and young children.
Each program combines natural history, field observation, and practical conservation information delivered by knowledgeable staff and guest experts. Wild Basin's Tiny Footprints program introduces children ages 4–7 to the micro-world of soil, insects and plants with story time, songs, crafts, and short guided trail walks designed for families. Adults can join First Friday Walk and Talk sessions that pair scenic trail exploration with conversations about land management, research and local ecology. The preserve also hosts a Speaker and Social Series featuring presentations on regional conservation and biodiversity, plus Second Saturday guided hikes highlighting seasonal species and landscapes.
Creative offerings include writing workshops led by the Artist in Residence and specialized teen and young adult sessions that emphasize observation, sketching and nature-based storytelling. Wild Basin operates as a collaborative conservation and education hub, partnering with researchers, volunteers and community groups to maintain trails, monitor wildlife and share science-based stewardship practices. Visitors should come prepared for uneven terrain and bring water, sun protection and appropriate footwear. Programs vary by season; registration is recommended for workshops and guided events.
Seasonal wildflower displays, birdwatching opportunities, and community volunteer days expand learning and deepen connections to Central Texas landscapes year-round.
Programs
9
Guided hikes, talks, and workshops
Family Program
Tiny Footprints
Ages 4–7: story, crafts, guided walk
Schedule
Weekly & Monthly
Regular weekly and monthly events
Expert-Led
Staff & Guests
Naturalists, researchers, and artists
Reserve a spot in Tiny Footprints, a guided hike, or a creative workshop — spaces fill fast for seasonal events.
Bring a water bottle for hydration
Kids and parents should carry water to stay refreshed during the 1.5-hour program.
Wear comfortable shoes
Closed-toe shoes with good grip will keep little feet safe on uneven trails.
Use sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear hats to protect from Texas sun, especially during summer outings.
Prepare for insects
Consider light insect repellent or long sleeves during warmer months to avoid bites.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is important during all outdoor activities for children.
Sun hat
Protects kids from sun exposure during warm Texas days.
summer
Comfortable walking shoes
Ensures safety and comfort while walking on natural terrain.
Light insect repellent
Helps keep bugs away during warmer months.
spring