Bunnen Nature Preserve

A remarkable new public greenspace is coming to Atlanta.

The future Bunnen Nature Preserve, a 30-acre forest sanctuary in Buckhead, has officially been transferred from The Conservation Fund to the City of Atlanta, marking a major milestone in several years-long effort to permanently protect one of the city's last remaining large urban forests. 

The preserve was once home to renowned photographer, artist, and philanthropist Lucinda Bunnen, often referred to as the "Godmother of Southern Photography." Over several decades, Lucinda and her family carefully assembled and protected the property, preserving its mature forest, walking trails, and the beautiful stretch of Nancy Creek that winds through the landscape. 

When the property became vulnerable to development, The Conservation Fund stepped in to acquire the land and work alongside the City of Atlanta, MPNCA, and generous donors to secure its future as a public nature preserve. Following a successful fundraising campaign and legislative approvals, ownership has now officially transferred to the City of Atlanta. 

Planning is now underway for the preserve's future. A Friends of Bunnen Nature Preserve group is forming to help support stewardship, fundraising, educational programming, and community engagement as the property evolves into a treasured public asset. 

The official opening date for Bunnen Nature Preserve has not yet been announced and remains to be determined. Additional details about public access, programming, and future improvements will be shared as plans continue to develop. 

Stay tuned as we work together to celebrate and protect this extraordinary legacy for future generations.