Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

How do I check in?

If you are going to the Nature Center, please follow signs.

For everything else, please check in at the Visitor Center when you arrive.

What are the hours of operations?

Visitor Center Hours:

Summer hours may vary, please check the website. (RV/Camping, disc golf, hiking trail, and golf cart rentals)

• Sunday: 8am – 7pm
• Monday: CLOSED
• Tuesday: 8am – 7pm
• Wednesday: 8am – 7pm
• Thursday: 8am – 7pm
• Friday: 8am – 7pm
• Saturday: 8am – 7pm

Can I feed the wildlife?

No.

When you feed an animal, it causes them to lose their instinctive fear of humans. Over time, animals may begin to approach humans in search of food and may become more dependent on people, unpredictable and dangerous.

Animals that obtain human food and garbage may damage property and injure people.

When animals depend on humans for food they will not live as long as animals that feed on only natural foods.

To ensure your continued welcome, please respect our efforts to protect all wildlife on this property. Be especially aware of and avoid harming or disturbing snakes, tortoises, and other wildlife on the trails. Please do not feed the alligators or any wildlife, it gives them upset tummies.

Does trash hurt wildlife?

Yes. No littering please.

Trash is dangerous to wildlife. If you see a piece of trash, even small or micro trash, please pick it up.

Clean up after yourselves and remove any litter you see to keep the nature preserve beautiful and free of the hazards to wildlife that some litter can create.

Stick a plastic bag in your pocket in case you need it.

If I see an interesting object, what should I do?

Please leave it where you see it.

You can take a picture. You can make a drawing. If you see something that may be important, please take a picture and speak with a McFadden staff member.

Picking flowers and plants and collecting specimens, rocks, fossils, bones, antlers, pottery, and arrowheads is not allowed. Observe these treasures and take only memories and photos home with you.

Are alcoholic beverages allowed?

Yes, in the RV park area only. But please follow the rules.

• Beverage must be held in an unmarked container or koozie.
• Never operate any vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Don’t walk a trail while compromised. This could result in getting extra lost, drowning, being eaten by an alligator, or falling in the Chattahoochee River. Rescues are expensive. You don’t want that kind of bill.
• We ask you to please be considerate of others and refrain from loud and unseemly behavior and language.
• Please do not play music loudly.

Can I fly a drone on McFadden property?

No. We do not allow drones at our RV /Campground or the nature center. Drones disturb wildlife, especially birds when nesting. Drones interfere with other guests’ privacy and peace while visiting McFadden.

Do you allow fireworks?

No. Fireworks are not allowed on McFadden property. This helps protect our wildlife and guests. 

What is your policy on firearms and weapons?

Guests must obey all federal, state, and local laws regarding the possession of firearms.

• Firearms are not permitted in any property buildings or common areas.
• The only exception is that guests may have a firearm in a locked, private vehicle in parking areas if permitted by law.
• The discharge of firearms, BB guns, crossbows, air guns/rifles, or similar devices is strictly prohibited.

Can I bring my own bicycle, 4-wheeler, ATV, boat or watercraft?

Bikes/bicycles/scooters are only allowed in RV/Camping areas.

For safety and liability reasons, we do not allow guests to use their own 4-wheelers, ATV, boat, canoe, kayak, stand-up paddle board, or any other type of watercraft.

No motorized vehicles are allowed on trails except for McFadden Nature Center Golf Carts.

How far away are other attractions?

Lucky for you, we’re located at the tristate junction and surrounding activities in Georgia, Florida, and Alabama including:

• Kolomoki Indian Mounds – (Blakely, GA – 40 minutes)
• Dothan Water Park – (Dothan, AL – 40 minutes)
• Seminole State Park – (Donalsonville, GA – 20 minutes)
• Dothan Movie theatres – (Dothan, AL – 40 minutes)
• Dothan Area Botanical Gardens – (Dothan, AL – ?? minutes)
• Landmark Park – Dothan, Alabama
• Harvest day Festival – (Donalsonville, GA – 15 minutes) In October (Drop in link to Chamber of Commerce)
• Mayhaw Festival (Colquitt, GA – 30 minutes) in April (Drop a link to this information)
• Swamp Gravy Play (Colquitt, GA – 30 minutes) seasonally in March and October
• Florida Caverns State Park – Marianna, FL
• Blue Hole Springs – Marianna, FL

Are there any restaurants nearby?

Yes. Please verify before you go that the restaurant is open.

• Pops – at Trails End
• Rodeo 
• Joes
• Southern Grind Coffee
• Fast food locations

Camping

What are the quiet hours?

Quiet hours are: 10PM – 8AM

Children and any guest under 14 years of age must stay at their campsite or cabin during these hours, unless accompanied by an adult.

What is allowed during quiet hours?

• Walking in designated paths around the RV/Campgrounds and the neighboring pasture.
• Visiting the bathhouse and laundry room.
• Quietly sitting by your campfire.
• Please, no loud music or barking dogs.                           

When is the laundry room available?

Laundry is available 24/7.

Must be off trails by 6:30pm. Summer hours may vary, please check the website.

Golf Carts Day rentals must be returned by 6:30pm. Summer hours may vary, please check the website.

What are RV rental prices?

• $59 a day, with a two-night minimum, first come, first serve. $100 deposit required.
• $354 a week (6 days and the 7^th day free). $100 deposit required.

What are campsite prices?

Campsites with water, power, fire ring, tent spot are $30 a night, $180 a week.

Primitive Campsites with no water or power, but with a fire ring and tent spot are $20 a night and $120 a week.

How many people are allowed to stay per site?

Depends.

• Campsites – One tent and up to 6 people including children.
• RV’s – Up to 8 people per RV site including children.
• Specialty campsites – each replica campsite is unique, please see each site for numbers.

Must be 21 or older to rent campsite or cabin.

Can I have visitors at my site?

Yes!

If you plan on having more than a few (2-3) people visit, please plan to book a gathering place.

Will my reservation guarantee a specific site or cabin assignment?

Yes!

What is included when I rent an RV site?

• RV campers can choose from back-in or pull-thru sites.
• All RV sites are equipped with electric, water, and sewer hook-ups.
• A picnic table, fire ring and grill are included at each RV site.
• Bathrooms and showers are nearby.
• Laundry facilities are available at the bathhouse.
• A garbage station is nearby. Please dispose of garbage promptly to help keep wildlife safe.

What is included when I rent a campsite?

• Fire ring, grill, electric, and water.
• Designated tent pad or area.
• Dishwashing station available at bathhouse for cleaning dishes.
• Garbage station nearby. Please dispose of garbage promptly to help keep wildlife safe. 

What is included when I rent a primitive campsite?

• No water or electricity
• Designated Fire ring and grill
• Garbage station nearby. Please dispose of garbage promptly to help keep wildlife safe.

If I am renting a camping or RV spot does this include entry to the Nature Center?

No, tickets are available for purchase at the Visitor Center or the Nature Center.

When you check in at the Visitor Center you will receive a coupon for 10% off in our Visitor Center camp store, and the Nature Center Gift Shop. Nature Center Tickets are excluded.

What is the cancellation policy?

Full refund if cancelled a month in advance. Fifty percent refund if cancelled two weeks in advance.

What is good camping etiquette?

If you’re a first time camper, you may have some questions on the best camping etiquette. Check out how to be a good neighbor, stay safe, and more, with this camping etiquette page.

What are my check-in/out times?

RV/Campground check-in 2pm check out is 11am

If you arrive earlier than your check-in time, you may be asked to wait.

A late check-out may be available for an extra fee. Please check the night before with the Visitor Center for availability.

Can I put up a flag at my campsite?

The following flags are allowed to be displayed at your site and throughout the campground:

American, State, your country of origin, military, including Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard, POW, MIA, and veterans, sports, holiday, seasonal or garden. Please refrain from displaying political or controversial flags.

Can I smoke at your RV/campground?

Yes, but please follow the rules.

• Smoking and vaping are only allowed in designated areas.
• Since we are a family Camp-Resort, smoking, including vaping, of any kind is not permitted in common and indoor areas, including but not limited to the playground, pavilions, and all buildings.
• Smoking is not permitted within 25 feet of any building entrance.
• Smoking is not permitted inside cabins.
• Smoking is permitted at campsites but must be confined to your designated site.
• Please properly dispose of all cigarette butts.

Where do I get firewood?

We have firewood available for purchase at our Visitor Center.

• Do not build fires, except in designated areas.
• Campers are not allowed to bring their own firewood.
• To preserve the beauty of our wooded property, please do not cut down or damage trees in any way.

Nature Center

What are the nature center ticket prices?

• Adult Age 15+: $12
• Child Age 3 to 14: $9
• Infant 2 & Under: FREE
• Military w/ ID and Senior Age 65+: $9
• School Groups 15 or more: $8/per student
• Teachers and chaperones are one free for every 10 students.

What forms of payment are accepted?

We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express, Debit Cards, and Cash.

What are holiday hours?

• New Years: Closed
• Presidents Day: Open
• Memorial Day: Open
• July 4th: Open
• Easter Sunday: Open
• Labor Day: Open
• Thanksgiving: Open
• Christmas Eve: Open Half Day 
• Christmas: Closed

Do you offer any discounts?

• Are you over 65 or a Veteran? We offer a 10% discount at our Visitor Center shop and our Nature Store. A valid ID must be presented at check-in to receive the discount. Excludes holidays (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years).
• You can follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on our discounts.
• We do not accept AAA, Good Sam’s Club, or any others. 

How far in advance should I make my reservation?

We recommend booking at least six months in advance of the desired arrival date, as our MNC campground may fill up quickly! We book reservations up to 360 days in advance!

What do I need to do to prepare for my arrival?

Check out our Event Calendar for all important activity dates leading up to your stay. Our general recommendations to prepare for being outside include sunscreen, a hat, bug spray, water to drink, and proper shoes and seasonal clothes appropriate for the time of year. 

Can I leave and come back?

Yes, you can! You are more than welcome to go out and visit the surrounding area or simply stay and enjoy all that our location has to offer. Our unique location has a view of Georgia, Florida, and Alabama Tri-junction.

Where do I park?

On-road vehicle parking in designated areas only. One camping unit (an RV or tent) and one vehicle per site; extra vehicles must park in the overflow lot.

What is the speed limit?

Because the Center is full of active families with children and animals, the speed limit throughout is 10 MPH and is strongly enforced for your safety. If you do not feel that you are driving ridiculously slowly, then you are driving too fast. We want to make sure everyone is safe during their stay. So, if you’re pressed for time, please come visit us another day. 

Is there Wi-Fi?

We do and it’s free to connect. The signal strength may vary throughout our property and in some places disappear completely. But now could be the perfect opportunity to get kids to put down their devices.

Do you have golf cart rentals?

We do! Golf carts can be rented for half a day or whole days at our Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is open 8am to 7pm Tuesday – Sunday.

When can I pick up my golf cart?

Golf Carts may be picked up when the Visitor Center is open, 8am to 7pm Tuesday – Sunday.

How will I know where to go?

Driving directions are available here.

When you arrive, follow signs to the Visitor Center or to the Nature Center.

Site map can be downloaded here.

If you have further questions when you arrive, our friendly staff members will be available to help. 

What activities do you offer?

• Self-Guided Scavenger Hunts
• Disk Golf Course
• Exhibits – including a hands-on interactive kinetic sand table.
• Trails for walking or riding in a golf cart (golf carts are available for rent)

Where can I find information about events and activities at the Center?

We have a calendar of events and programs you can see at this link.

How can I tour your nature center grounds?

Self-guided map is available for you to choose any area you would like to visit.

Maps includes:

• Wetland Loop Trail, Woodlands Trail, and Agriculture Trail Map
• Disc Golf Course map
• RV/Campground map

Can I smoke at the Nature Center?

Yes, but please follow the rules.

• Since we are family friendly, smoking, including vaping, of any kind is not permitted, except in designated areas.  
• Smoking is not permitted within 25 feet of any building entrance.
• Please properly dispose of all cigarette butts.

Events

Can I have a group event at the nature center?

We have a variety of spaces available for rent for group events.

At the Nature Center:

• Acorn Hall – all three rooms together – 150 people max
• Individual Classrooms
• Live Oak Room – Room on the catering side – 40 people max
• Magnolia Room – Room on Brides room side – 40 people max
• Longleaf Pine Room = Middle room – 40 people max
• Conference Room – 12 people max
• Amphitheater – 65 people max.
• Lobby (after nature center hours only) – 50 people max.
• Whole Nature Center (after nature center hours only) – 250 people max. 

If you need a space to hold your next meeting or event, we can accommodate events of many sizes, from corporate meetings, wedding receptions, galas, birthday parties, family reunions, award ceremonies, to staff retreats and more.

Large outdoor, primitive events may be coordinated, please contact our staff to discuss.

What amenities are available for hosting an event?

• Acorn Hall – Projector and screen, Catering Kitchen,
• Individual Classrooms:
  • Longleaf Pine Room – Projector and screen, Catering Kitchen
  • Magnolia Room – Projector and screen
  • Live Oak Room – Projector and screen
• Conference Room – Projector and screen, Catering Kitchen (if available)
  • Amphitheater – Catering Kitchen (if available)
  • Lobby (after nature center hours only) – Catering Kitchen
  • Whole Nature Center (after nature center hours only) – Projector and screen (in Acorn Hall), Catering Kitchen

If I rent a space for an event or meeting, does it include access to the exhibits?

Tickets for entrance to Exhibits are sold separately. Discounted group rates available.

Do you have catering?

No.

But we have a caterer’s kitchen available when you rent either the Longleaf Room, Acorn Hall, the conference room, the amphitheater, lobby, or the entire nature center.

The caterer’s kitchen is only for staging food, it is not a cooking kitchen. You are welcome to use your own vendors in our catering kitchen.

Can I decorate rental spaces for my event?

Yes.

• You are welcome to bring decorative party hats, napkins, and plates. 
• You cannot attach things to walls, ceilings, or cabinets.
• You cannot use balloons or glitter of any sort.
• No candles are allowed to be used except for a birthday cake.
• No throwing of dried rice allowed at weddings.
• Bubbles and bird seed are permitted.
• Easels can be used to display posters or presentation boards.
• Items can be set on tables.
• Electronic battery operated tealights, LED flicker candles are permitted.

Do you supply tablecloths, plates, cups, silverware, or paper goods for rental events?

No.

You must bring your own items.

No Styrofoam products are permitted to be used at McFadden Nature Center, please plan accordingly to use compostable products or porcelain dishes.

Do I need to clean up after my event?

Yes.

You will be provided with a checklist for after event cleanup and a staff person will check the list before approving your cleaning deposit refund.

We do not supply cleaning products. You must bring your cleaning supplies with you.

You may choose to pay for a cleaning service after your event if you do not want to do the cleaning yourself. This service must be booked and paid for in advance of your event.

Are tables and chairs supplied when I rent a space?

Yes.

• Round tables
• Rectangle tables
• Stackable chairs 

What are Birthday Party Program specifications?

• Birthday Parties are for ages 4 to 12 years old.
• Birthday parties are 2 hours.
• Includes access to trails and nature center exhibits after your party.
• Includes staff member to guide party activities.
• Choice of live animal program or a guided nature trail
• Education Themes include:
  • Rocking Reptiles
  • Safari Explorer
  • Buggy Birthday
  • Custom Theme
• Minimum one adult for every two children.
• Includes up to 25 guests total for children and adults.
• All adults and children attending the party will be counted towards your final guest count.
• Special wristbands will be given to your guests to provide access to the Exhibits and party room.
• The total time reserved for your group in the party room is two hours. You are allowed an extra 15 minutes to set up before your party and 15 minutes after your party to clear away your items.

Can I bring my pet with me?

Depends.

RV Park & Campgrounds:

Yes.

• Pets are only allowed in RV and campground areas and not allowed in our natural areas.
• Pet owners must keep their pet leashed at all times and are responsible for noise control and feces clean-up.
• Pet feces add bacteria and parasites to the local habitats where wildlife live.
• We reserve the right to have you remove hostile or disruptive pets from the park.
• Please fill out our MNC Pet Waiver. Waivers must be turned in at check-in.
• Do not release unwanted pets or wild animals into the nature preserve.
• Domestic animals may carry diseases, can alter genetic health of native populations, alter predator/prey relationships, or suffer physically.

Natural areas:

No. Pets are not allowed in our natural areas. This includes nature trails, the disc golf course and the area around the nature center.

Memberships

Does McFadden Nature Center offer Memberships?

Yes! A Membership pays for itself in just 2 to 3 visits!

Membership levels:

• Individual (adult only): $25/year
• Just For two (2 adults or 1 adult and 1 child): $48/year
• Family: $85/year (2 adults, 3 children, or 1 adult or 4 children)

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­Are there Member-Only Events?

Yes!

Being a Member of the Center has its perks! Special Member-Only events are offered throughout the year. Please check our members page.

Can I use my McFadden Nature Center Membership for admission to other centers?

No. Currently, the McFadden Nature Center is not a part of any reciprocal programs.

Is there a restriction on who can be the 2nd or 3rd named adult on a McFadden Nature Center Membership?

A named adult must be 18 years of age or older.

The named adults on a membership are not required to reside at the same address; however, only one address will receive mailings and emails.

How long does my Membership last?

Memberships are valid for 1 year from the date of purchase, expiring on the last day of the month of purchase.

The Membership must be renewed annually if the Member wishes to retain their benefits.

How do I get my Membership cards?

Membership cards are not needed, just bring your government issued ID and we will look up your membership on site.

Children 16 years of age and under must be accompanied by a named adult, so they do not need an ID.

How often can I use my Membership?

As many times as you like for general admission.

Your Membership can be used for any general admission tickets for the nature center and exhibits for the people listed on your membership level.

Membership cannot be used to gain entry for special events.

Who can I bring to the nature center on my membership?

Your Membership can be used for any general admission tickets for the nature center and exhibits for the people listed on your membership level.

Membership cannot be used to gain entry for special events.

Can I lend my nature center membership to friends or family?

No. Memberships are non-transferrable and may only be used by the named Adult(s) on the Membership.

A valid photo ID is required for the named adult, when using your membership.

A childcare provider can only use the Membership if they are a named adult on the Membership.

Is my Membership valid on group reservations?

No. Memberships are not valid on group reservations.

Can I apply the cost of admission to a membership?

Yes.

We would be delighted to apply the cost of admission to the purchase of a membership if it is purchased on the same day.

If the cost of admission tickets exceeds the cost of the membership, it is not refundable.

What is “Museums for All”?

Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP Benefits) can gain free admission to McFadden Nature Center.

Simply present your valid EBT card and photo ID.

Volunteering

Do you accept volunteers?

Yes!

We highly value our volunteers!

We have numerous volunteer opportunities available to qualified individuals.

We are sure to have a volunteer opportunity that will play to your strengths.

We have positions that range from limited time requirements to numerous hours per week.

If you are looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity in Donalsonville, GA, look no further than the McFadden Nature Center.

Can my child volunteer?

Yes!

Children must be at least 12-year-old and accompanied by an adult that is also volunteering. 

When can my child volunteer without an adult?

Your child can volunteer without an adult at the age of 16. A parent or legal guardian must sign a waiver.

Can a Boy Scout complete an Eagle Scout project at McFadden Nature Center?

Yes!

We love Eagle Scout projects. Our projects serve the wider community when they come to visit McFadden Nature Center. Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator to arrange a meeting about your Eagle Scout Project ideas.

Can a group of people volunteer together at McFadden Nature Center?

Depends.

Group volunteer requests are considered on a case-by-case basis. Our volunteer coordinator can meet with your group leader to assess the needs of the nature center and how your group might like to help.