Springside Nature Reserve is Hillcrest’s hidden gem
Are you looking for a family-friendly activity for the weekend? The Springside Nature Reserve offers scenic walks and picnic facilities.
SPRINGSIDE Nature Reserve is a green paradise in the heart of Hillcrest. It is open daily to the public and boasts 20ha of rich, biodiverse forest, grassland and wetland.
The reserve offers scenic walks and picnic facilities. It was founded by and is currently maintained by the community it lies in.
Springside Nature Reserve was proclaimed in 1948, and trees were planted and trails laid out by volunteers. In 1982, residents, with the support of the Hillcrest Town Board, members of Rotary and Lion clubs, the local Scouts group and primary and high schools, formed a steering committee to manage the reserve. The current Hillcrest Conservancy committee, together with the eThekwini Department of Natural Resources, continues to manage and preserve this natural asset for everyone’s enjoyment.
The Kingfisher Centre, toilet block and the Analematic Sundial were all built with the assistance of the Rotary Club of Hillcrest.
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Guided walks are regularly organised, but the reserve has a network of well-maintained trails which are suitable for all fitness levels. The illustrated signboards in the car park help visitors with route selection.
Visitors are encouraged to make a donation at the Kingfisher Centre during their visit. Zapper payments are welcomed. Donations are used for ongoing improvements and projects in the reserve.
No dogs or pets are allowed.
Gates are open daily from 07:30 to 16:00.
Location: 93 Springside Road, Hillcrest.
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