The Nature Exploration Areas at the Tacoma Nature Center will not be a traditional playground. The Nature Exploration Area is intended to enable children to discover natural concepts and materials through a combination of exploration; tactile learning; physical play; cause-and-effect examination; and educational signage. Thematically, the conceptual design for the Nature Exploration Area aims to create a miniature Snake Lake environment that is focused around a shallow, recirculating water feature intended to simulate Snake Lake. Some concepts that will be explored are eutrophication, sedimentation, effects of stormwater on water bodies, geomorphology of glacial landscapes, and life cycles of plants.

J. A. Brennan developed a master plan and detailed schematic plans for the revitalization of this treasured Tacoma resource. Element of the new plan include the new Nature Exploration Area, an enhanced park gateway entrance, an environmental learning center, and new trails.