Deerwood Arboretum & Nature Center

Located at 320 Deerwood Lane

Park is open daily from dawn to dusk

Our Arboretum was chosen as "Arboretum of the Month" from the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council for the month of November 2017.   

Fun Facts

• Deerwood is a Level 2 state certified Arboretum through the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council.
• The Arboretum site was once used as a wastewater treatment plant by the city.
• There are over 60 species that line the paved and unpaved walking trails.
• It is located on 27 acres that borders the Little Harpeth River.
• This infographic timeline shows the history of the arboretum, from 1970-2022.

Deerwood showcases native trees, migratory birds, butterflies and other wildlife. The park features bike paths and jogging trails, ponds, a wildflower meadow and a Nature Center Complex with an outdoor classroom. There are also restrooms, information kiosks and a small amphitheater. An educational curriculum is available for use by schools and service groups.

Tree Identification Guide

Deerwood features more than 69 different species of trees and all can be identified using a Tree Identification Trail Guide. As a Tennessee Certified Arboretum, most examples of each species is within 20 feet of the trail. Most of the tagged trees are native to Tennessee. Sections of the trail connect Deerwood to Belle Rive Drive and a foot bridge over the Little Harpeth River that leads to Kingsbury Drive in Laurelwood. 

Shelter Reservations

The shelter at Deerwood Arboretum and Natural Area can be reserved only by local schools, boy and girls scout groups, etc.  for educational purposes. WE DO NOT ALLOW PRIVATE PARTIES OR COMPANY EVENTS.

Please Note: that there are only 11 parking spots at the Arboretum. We only allow 25 guests at this location due to the limited parking and it being nestled in the back of a neighborhood.  If a school is reserving, we do allow up to 100 children because they are able to utilize a bus for transportation, thus not disturbing the residents with parking along the streets in front of their homes.  If you have questions, please contact our office before submitting a request.

Some useful links

• Tree Identification Guide (pdf- printable)
• Reservation - You must be a school, girl scout / boy scout troop or other educational organization. NO PRIVATE EVENTS.
• Tennessee Urban Forestry Council