Put October 12, 2025 on your calendar to visit Hopelands Gardens for Nature Rocks in the Gardens! Nature – Ecology – Science – History – Music – Arts and Crafts – Demonstrations – all come alive. There is nothing better than hearing children laugh and seeing them discover nature. This annual event is planned for children and families to share a glorious fun day together. We all need to go outside and play!
The 4th Annual Nature Rocks in Hopelands Gardens Brings Fun for All Ages
By Rebekah Mayfield
The Friends of Hopelands and Rye Patch and the City of Aiken Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department invite the community to celebrate the 4th Annual Nature Rocks in Hopelands Gardens on Sunday, October 12th, from 2–5 p.m. This free, family-friendly event promises an afternoon of outdoor fun, learning, and exploration in one of Aiken’s most beloved gardens.
Children and adults alike can enjoy nature themed crafts, a scavenger hunt, interactive demonstrations, and story time with Mother Goose. Other highlights include face painting, a history walk, and an obstacle course that teaches kids about decomposition.
“We are thrilled to welcome everyone back to Nature Rocks after having to miss last year,” said Kathy Wise, co-chair of the event alongside Tommie Culligan. “This event is such a special opportunity to connect families with the outdoors, and we are excited for another wonderful year.”
Culligan added, “Several new exhibitors will join all of your favorites from previous years with lots of fun activities. We know you will also enjoy seeing the landscape enhancements put in place by the City after Hurricane Helene.”
Hopelands Gardens, the event’s setting, offers the perfect backdrop for an afternoon in nature. Once the winter home of philanthropist Hope Goddard Iselin, the 14-acre property was donated to the City of Aiken in 1970 and features hundreds of trees, a butterfly garden, wetlands, and numerous species of birds. It is also part of the National Camellia Trail and home to many of the stately oaks and cedars planted by Mrs. Iselin herself.
This year’s Nature Rocks is made possible thanks to the support of numerous local organizations and volunteers, including the Aiken Woman’s Club, Aiken Council of Garden Clubs, Ruth Patrick Science Education Center, Aiken Land Conservancy, Aiken Bee Keepers, South Carolina Bluebird Society, and many others.
Event parking will be available at the Green Boundary Club, 780 Whiskey Road. Don’t miss this chance to experience the beauty of Hopelands while enjoying activities that inspire a love for nature and the outdoors.