I am going there today for a school feild trip and I heard that someone got bit with a rattlesnake there. So I wanted to know if it is safe, and if someone really did get bitten by a rattlesnake. Hopefully I dont!

A little girl got bit on the stump playground which they have sectioned off for now. It is only the 3rd bite in 30 years. Use caution and stay on the path you should be fine.

It is that time of the year and it is by the river. Make sure to stay on the paths and keep an eye out. It's a fantastic place.

It is a wonderful place to visit and hike. Just stay on the trail paths, stay in groups and don't reach under rocks and tree branches. Keep your eyes and ears open for rattle snake sounds. They will usually warn you when you are in their territory. Learn to respect nature and treat animals as if you are visiting their home. Enjoy your field trip you will be safe and have lots of fun.

You'll be totally safe! I've been going here with my family for 25+ years. We've had close encounters with 2 rattlers in all of that time and that's only because we were being a little risky with where we were hiking. You'll all be perfectly safe as long as you stick to the paths and stay cautious. Remember that it's the animal's territory that you are visiting, not the other way round.

Yes, as noted in the previous answer, a little girl was bitten on the finger after she picked up a small section of stump in the playscape area. This was a very serious incident and our staff took immediate action, contacting paramedics and keeping the girl safe while waiting for help. We were so relieved to hear from the family that she made a full recovery. This is a very rare occurrence - only the third rattlesnake bite in our 35 year recorded history. You can stay safe by being alert, keeping on the trails and not reaching under rocks or branches on the ground. We're glad your class will be visiting for a field trip today and we know they'll have a wonderful time learning about the natural history of our region and how to live among the wild creatures who also call it home. And if you or the students have any concerns or questions when you arrive here today, please ask our Naturalists! Because the more you know, the less fear you will have and the more you'll enjoy yourself.