Spardorfer Str. 82, Erlangen
Spardorfer Str. 82, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen | Opening Hours & Animals
The Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen is a nature-oriented leisure and educational facility located at Spardorfer Straße 82 in Erlangen. It is situated in the urban Meilwald, combining animal experiences with nature education and has been a fixed place for open child and youth work, holiday programs, school projects, and group programs since 1974. The official tourism site describes the youth farm as a green island with a large area, animal enclosures, riding area, garden spaces, biotope, fire pits, play construction area, climbing facilities, huts, and café. The Bavarian State Portal recognized the facility as a state-recognized environmental station in 2015; it was emphasized at that time that the youth farm has been providing children and young people the opportunity to experience the animal world and nature for 40 years. This combination of practice, experience, and environmental education makes the youth farm a place that appeals not only to families but also to daycare centers, schools, clubs, and social institutions. Those looking for a location where animals, forest, movement, and educational offerings come together will find an exceptionally versatile destination here. ([en.visit-erlangen.de](https://en.visit-erlangen.de/schaufenster/umweltstation_jugendfarm_erlan-929/))
Opening Hours, Visiting Rules, and Registration
For many visitors, the opening hours are the first crucial point. The official website states the general visiting hours outside of school holidays as Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 5 PM and Saturday from 11 AM to 4 PM; the youth farm is closed on Sundays. Additionally, office hours and telephone availability are clearly regulated: The office is staffed Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 2 PM, and the team can be reached by phone on Mondays from 10 AM to 12 PM, Wednesdays from 12 PM to 2 PM, and Fridays from 1 PM to 3 PM. During school holidays, the normal visiting hours are suspended because holiday care takes place. This structure is important because the youth farm is not a classic zoo with continuous public operation, but a pedagogically organized facility with fixed time slots and clear processes. This allows for planned offerings, and at the same time, the animals, learning areas, and supervision can be well organized. Therefore, anyone wanting to come spontaneously should always check the current times first and not assume continuous open operation. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
The visiting rules are also part of the concept and should be taken seriously. According to the terms of use, the youth farm can be visited during opening hours, but larger groups or groups in institutional contexts must be registered. There are no age restrictions for educational offerings, and children with disabilities can also participate after prior contact and agreement. Furthermore, there is a comprehensive behavioral concept on the premises: Animals should not be fed independently, animal enclosures should not be entered independently, dogs must be kept on a leash, and there is a general ban on alcohol and smoking, including e-cigarettes, throughout the entire area. Fire pits may only be used in the presence of a staff member, and construction in the play construction area is only allowed with pedagogical supervision. These rules are not a bureaucratic end in themselves but serve to protect children, animals, and facilities. Visitors to the youth farm experience a lot of freedom and movement, but within a clear framework that connects safety and pedagogical quality. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_allg-nutzungsbedingungen.pdf))
Animals, Open Meeting, and Nature Experience in Meilwald
The animal world is one of the most important reasons why the Youth Farm Erlangen is so frequently sought after and visited. The tourism description mentions ponies, donkeys, sheep, goats, small animals, and chickens on the premises. In addition, there are riding areas, garden spaces, biotope, fire pits, play construction area, climbing facilities, and huts. This mix ensures that a visit is not limited to merely observing animals but always includes movement, discovery, and hands-on experiences. This is particularly attractive for families with children, as various interests can be combined: observing animals, being outdoors in nature, learning playfully, building something, or simply spending time outside. Therefore, the youth farm is rightly described not only as a place for animals but as a space for experiences. Those looking for more than a quick tour can create a whole afternoon outing here, where different age groups can find their own highlights. The facility is also intentionally close to nature and well integrated into the Meilwald, so that the journey there can already be part of the experience. ([en.visit-erlangen.de](https://en.visit-erlangen.de/schaufenster/umweltstation_jugendfarm_erlan-929/))
Additionally, the Open Meeting defines the youth farm as a lively meeting place. According to the website, the Open Meeting is free of charge, but registration is necessary for insurance reasons. The facility mentions a family membership or alternatively an annual insurance contribution per child as a way to participate. This shows that the youth farm is not just a destination for outings but also a regular social meeting point. This profile is complemented by the so-called Little Ones' Meeting for younger children and course formats such as Mama, Papa & Our Animals or My Little Farm. These programs make it clear that the youth farm does not simply present animals but connects relationships, experiences, and learning. For parents looking for a place where children can be relaxed, protected, and active at the same time, this is a strong argument. And for people who enjoy being outdoors, the youth farm, with its location in the Meilwald, the spacious grounds, and many playful elements, becomes a particularly versatile destination. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Holiday Care, Courses, and Workshops for Children
A central part of the offering is holiday care. According to the current information sheet, it is aimed at children between 6 and 12 years old, with holiday programs available for children starting from 4 years. The care runs during the holidays in full-day weekly models, and the youth farm points out that a warm lunch and drinks are included in the paid offering. Drop-off and pick-up times are clearly organized so that families can plan the process well. The official terms of use also emphasize that during holiday periods, the youth farm is responsible for supervision, and children must check in and out when entering and leaving the premises. For many parents, this is an important safety and organizational feature, as this is not just care but a structured educational framework. At the same time, the combination of nature, animals, movement, and group life makes the holiday week particularly varied for children. Those looking for a reliable, outdoor-oriented holiday solution will find an offering here that is pedagogically thought out and organizationally clearly regulated. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_info-ferienbetreuung.pdf))
The courses and workshops also show how broad the youth farm's offerings are. The website lists offerings such as Mama, Papa & Our Animals for the youngest, My Little Farm for children aged 5 to 7 years, Children's Workshop for little craftsmen, and Parent-Child Blacksmithing. There are also other formats that change regularly and are sometimes fully booked. Particularly exciting is that the youth farm formulates its own themes in a very everyday manner: animals, crafts, tinkering, trying out, and discovering together are at the forefront. This makes the offerings tangible and distinguishes them from purely theoretical environmental courses. For families looking for a meaningful leisure program, this connection between practice and nature is valuable. At the same time, the current website shows that due to restructuring measures, children's birthday parties are currently not being offered. This is important information for anyone considering the youth farm as a venue. This creates an honest picture: The youth farm currently clearly focuses on education, care, nature experiences, and group work, not on classic birthday parties. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Group Offers for Schools, Daycare Centers, and Social Institutions
The Youth Farm Erlangen is particularly interesting for groups because educational offerings can be organized year-round. The official group offering is aimed at children's groups from 4 years old, teenagers, and adults of all ages. Groups from kindergartens, schools, social institutions, and other institutional contexts can book half-day or full-day programs tailored to their specific target group. The facility emphasizes that participants with special needs can be well integrated into the activities. This inclusive approach is a strong feature of the youth farm, as it combines nature experience with participation. For school classes and daycare centers, this is not just a nice outing but a pedagogically usable learning field that combines movement space, animal encounters, and nature knowledge. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/2024-umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_info-gruppenangebote.pdf))
The list of themes for group offerings is extensive and shows how broadly the pedagogical approach is conceived. Among other things, visits to the animals, donkey trekking, Circus Lillimo, hut building like R. Crusoe, Bee wild, Nature Strollers, Herb Workshop, Crafts, Such a Theater, and experiential pedagogical group offerings are mentioned. These names already reveal that this is not about a static zoo visit but about activating learning formats. During the visit to the animals, children get to know the animals together with staff members and feed them in small groups. During donkey trekking, participants go on a guided hike through the Meilwald with the donkeys Sandro, Emma, and Kessy for about three hours, with an adult needing to lead each donkey and the group limited to a maximum of 12 people. Bee wild, on the other hand, focuses on biodiversity, bees, nature conservation, and biodiversity education. This combination of experience, knowledge, and action orientation makes the youth farm so valuable for schools, daycare centers, and projects. The themes are not abstract but immediately experienceable, creating a learning space that remains memorable for both children and adults. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/2024-umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_info-gruppenangebote.pdf))
Renting Group Rooms, Accessibility, and Practical Information
The youth farm is not only a place for children's programs but is also suitable for seminars, workshops, and meetings of groups. The website describes a divisible group room with a total of 80 m², which can accommodate up to 60 people in cinema seating. The equipment includes a projector, screen, and speakers; additionally, a sound system can be booked. Accessibility is particularly important: the rooms are barrier-free, and there is a wheelchair-accessible toilet. This makes the location suitable for clubs, working groups, educational formats, or smaller events that seek a functional yet nature-oriented setting. Compared to classic seminar venues, the youth farm has its own character because here space, nature, and the educational environment come together directly. Therefore, anyone expecting a mixed group or consciously seeking a relaxed, non-sterile environment will find an interesting alternative here. For inquiries, the facility refers directly to its contact address. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Practically important are also the contact methods and the organization of everyday life on site. The youth farm can be reached by phone at 09131 21365 and by email at info@jugendfarm-er.de. Office hours, telephone hours, and visiting hours are clearly indicated, which improves planning. Additionally, the official website and the terms of use make the respectful coexistence on the premises clear: groups and institutional visits should only be made by prior registration, open meetings only with registration for insurance reasons, and there is a clear ban on alcohol, smoking, and e-cigarettes on the premises. The youth farm consciously works with an open but structured approach. This is pleasant for families because safety and clarity are palpable, and helpful for groups because processes function reliably. The social integration is also noteworthy: the youth farm is closely networked with the Lebenshilfe Erlangen and is described there as a partner with offerings for feeding animals, experiencing nature, and building something. This underscores the inclusive character of the facility and explains why it holds significance in Erlangen far beyond a normal leisure location. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Getting to the Youth Farm Erlangen and Outing in Meilwald
The location in Meilwald is one of the great advantages of the Youth Farm Erlangen. The tourism site describes it as an idyllic green island near the city and explicitly recommends combining the visit with a hike or bike ride through the Erlangen Meilwald. The Waldkrankenhaus is mentioned as a starting point, from where the Climate-Energy Forest Education Trail leads towards the youth farm. Those who want to extend the outing can also plan through the Environmental Café area, chicken coop, towel meadow, and back through the Schwabachtal. This makes the youth farm not only a destination but part of a larger nature route. This is particularly attractive for families looking for an active afternoon and for guests who want to experience Erlangen not only urban but also in terms of landscape. The surroundings make it clear that the youth farm is not isolated but embedded in a leisure and nature area that invites walks, bike rides, and small discovery tours. ([en.visit-erlangen.de](https://en.visit-erlangen.de/schaufenster/umweltstation_jugendfarm_erlan-929/))
There are also further leisure connections in the immediate vicinity. The city of Erlangen points out the proximity to the youth farm at the playground Spardorfer Straße / Youth Farm; there, among other things, there is a zip line and swings, and very close by at the Meilwald stage, there is a low ropes course. This shows that the area is overall strongly oriented towards families and movement. Those coming with children can therefore very well combine the visit with further activities instead of just planning a short stop. At the same time, one should consider the different objectives when arriving: the youth farm is a pedagogically structured place with fixed times, while the surrounding leisure areas act more as complements. Together, this creates a coherent day trip with nature, play, and learning. For search intentions related to arrival, parking, animals, and outings, this mix is crucial because it describes not only the location but the overall experience. Therefore, anyone looking for a location that is suitable for both a short family visit and a longer outing in Meilwald will find the Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen to be the right choice. ([erlangen.de](https://erlangen.de/aktuelles/spielplatz-spardorfer-strasse?utm_source=openai))
Sources:
- Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen - Official Website
- Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen - Group Offers PDF
- Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen - Terms of Use PDF
- Visit Erlangen - Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen
- Bavarian State Portal - State-Recognized Environmental Station
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Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen | Opening Hours & Animals
The Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen is a nature-oriented leisure and educational facility located at Spardorfer Straße 82 in Erlangen. It is situated in the urban Meilwald, combining animal experiences with nature education and has been a fixed place for open child and youth work, holiday programs, school projects, and group programs since 1974. The official tourism site describes the youth farm as a green island with a large area, animal enclosures, riding area, garden spaces, biotope, fire pits, play construction area, climbing facilities, huts, and café. The Bavarian State Portal recognized the facility as a state-recognized environmental station in 2015; it was emphasized at that time that the youth farm has been providing children and young people the opportunity to experience the animal world and nature for 40 years. This combination of practice, experience, and environmental education makes the youth farm a place that appeals not only to families but also to daycare centers, schools, clubs, and social institutions. Those looking for a location where animals, forest, movement, and educational offerings come together will find an exceptionally versatile destination here. ([en.visit-erlangen.de](https://en.visit-erlangen.de/schaufenster/umweltstation_jugendfarm_erlan-929/))
Opening Hours, Visiting Rules, and Registration
For many visitors, the opening hours are the first crucial point. The official website states the general visiting hours outside of school holidays as Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 5 PM and Saturday from 11 AM to 4 PM; the youth farm is closed on Sundays. Additionally, office hours and telephone availability are clearly regulated: The office is staffed Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 2 PM, and the team can be reached by phone on Mondays from 10 AM to 12 PM, Wednesdays from 12 PM to 2 PM, and Fridays from 1 PM to 3 PM. During school holidays, the normal visiting hours are suspended because holiday care takes place. This structure is important because the youth farm is not a classic zoo with continuous public operation, but a pedagogically organized facility with fixed time slots and clear processes. This allows for planned offerings, and at the same time, the animals, learning areas, and supervision can be well organized. Therefore, anyone wanting to come spontaneously should always check the current times first and not assume continuous open operation. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
The visiting rules are also part of the concept and should be taken seriously. According to the terms of use, the youth farm can be visited during opening hours, but larger groups or groups in institutional contexts must be registered. There are no age restrictions for educational offerings, and children with disabilities can also participate after prior contact and agreement. Furthermore, there is a comprehensive behavioral concept on the premises: Animals should not be fed independently, animal enclosures should not be entered independently, dogs must be kept on a leash, and there is a general ban on alcohol and smoking, including e-cigarettes, throughout the entire area. Fire pits may only be used in the presence of a staff member, and construction in the play construction area is only allowed with pedagogical supervision. These rules are not a bureaucratic end in themselves but serve to protect children, animals, and facilities. Visitors to the youth farm experience a lot of freedom and movement, but within a clear framework that connects safety and pedagogical quality. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_allg-nutzungsbedingungen.pdf))
Animals, Open Meeting, and Nature Experience in Meilwald
The animal world is one of the most important reasons why the Youth Farm Erlangen is so frequently sought after and visited. The tourism description mentions ponies, donkeys, sheep, goats, small animals, and chickens on the premises. In addition, there are riding areas, garden spaces, biotope, fire pits, play construction area, climbing facilities, and huts. This mix ensures that a visit is not limited to merely observing animals but always includes movement, discovery, and hands-on experiences. This is particularly attractive for families with children, as various interests can be combined: observing animals, being outdoors in nature, learning playfully, building something, or simply spending time outside. Therefore, the youth farm is rightly described not only as a place for animals but as a space for experiences. Those looking for more than a quick tour can create a whole afternoon outing here, where different age groups can find their own highlights. The facility is also intentionally close to nature and well integrated into the Meilwald, so that the journey there can already be part of the experience. ([en.visit-erlangen.de](https://en.visit-erlangen.de/schaufenster/umweltstation_jugendfarm_erlan-929/))
Additionally, the Open Meeting defines the youth farm as a lively meeting place. According to the website, the Open Meeting is free of charge, but registration is necessary for insurance reasons. The facility mentions a family membership or alternatively an annual insurance contribution per child as a way to participate. This shows that the youth farm is not just a destination for outings but also a regular social meeting point. This profile is complemented by the so-called Little Ones' Meeting for younger children and course formats such as Mama, Papa & Our Animals or My Little Farm. These programs make it clear that the youth farm does not simply present animals but connects relationships, experiences, and learning. For parents looking for a place where children can be relaxed, protected, and active at the same time, this is a strong argument. And for people who enjoy being outdoors, the youth farm, with its location in the Meilwald, the spacious grounds, and many playful elements, becomes a particularly versatile destination. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Holiday Care, Courses, and Workshops for Children
A central part of the offering is holiday care. According to the current information sheet, it is aimed at children between 6 and 12 years old, with holiday programs available for children starting from 4 years. The care runs during the holidays in full-day weekly models, and the youth farm points out that a warm lunch and drinks are included in the paid offering. Drop-off and pick-up times are clearly organized so that families can plan the process well. The official terms of use also emphasize that during holiday periods, the youth farm is responsible for supervision, and children must check in and out when entering and leaving the premises. For many parents, this is an important safety and organizational feature, as this is not just care but a structured educational framework. At the same time, the combination of nature, animals, movement, and group life makes the holiday week particularly varied for children. Those looking for a reliable, outdoor-oriented holiday solution will find an offering here that is pedagogically thought out and organizationally clearly regulated. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_info-ferienbetreuung.pdf))
The courses and workshops also show how broad the youth farm's offerings are. The website lists offerings such as Mama, Papa & Our Animals for the youngest, My Little Farm for children aged 5 to 7 years, Children's Workshop for little craftsmen, and Parent-Child Blacksmithing. There are also other formats that change regularly and are sometimes fully booked. Particularly exciting is that the youth farm formulates its own themes in a very everyday manner: animals, crafts, tinkering, trying out, and discovering together are at the forefront. This makes the offerings tangible and distinguishes them from purely theoretical environmental courses. For families looking for a meaningful leisure program, this connection between practice and nature is valuable. At the same time, the current website shows that due to restructuring measures, children's birthday parties are currently not being offered. This is important information for anyone considering the youth farm as a venue. This creates an honest picture: The youth farm currently clearly focuses on education, care, nature experiences, and group work, not on classic birthday parties. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Group Offers for Schools, Daycare Centers, and Social Institutions
The Youth Farm Erlangen is particularly interesting for groups because educational offerings can be organized year-round. The official group offering is aimed at children's groups from 4 years old, teenagers, and adults of all ages. Groups from kindergartens, schools, social institutions, and other institutional contexts can book half-day or full-day programs tailored to their specific target group. The facility emphasizes that participants with special needs can be well integrated into the activities. This inclusive approach is a strong feature of the youth farm, as it combines nature experience with participation. For school classes and daycare centers, this is not just a nice outing but a pedagogically usable learning field that combines movement space, animal encounters, and nature knowledge. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/2024-umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_info-gruppenangebote.pdf))
The list of themes for group offerings is extensive and shows how broadly the pedagogical approach is conceived. Among other things, visits to the animals, donkey trekking, Circus Lillimo, hut building like R. Crusoe, Bee wild, Nature Strollers, Herb Workshop, Crafts, Such a Theater, and experiential pedagogical group offerings are mentioned. These names already reveal that this is not about a static zoo visit but about activating learning formats. During the visit to the animals, children get to know the animals together with staff members and feed them in small groups. During donkey trekking, participants go on a guided hike through the Meilwald with the donkeys Sandro, Emma, and Kessy for about three hours, with an adult needing to lead each donkey and the group limited to a maximum of 12 people. Bee wild, on the other hand, focuses on biodiversity, bees, nature conservation, and biodiversity education. This combination of experience, knowledge, and action orientation makes the youth farm so valuable for schools, daycare centers, and projects. The themes are not abstract but immediately experienceable, creating a learning space that remains memorable for both children and adults. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/2024-umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_info-gruppenangebote.pdf))
Renting Group Rooms, Accessibility, and Practical Information
The youth farm is not only a place for children's programs but is also suitable for seminars, workshops, and meetings of groups. The website describes a divisible group room with a total of 80 m², which can accommodate up to 60 people in cinema seating. The equipment includes a projector, screen, and speakers; additionally, a sound system can be booked. Accessibility is particularly important: the rooms are barrier-free, and there is a wheelchair-accessible toilet. This makes the location suitable for clubs, working groups, educational formats, or smaller events that seek a functional yet nature-oriented setting. Compared to classic seminar venues, the youth farm has its own character because here space, nature, and the educational environment come together directly. Therefore, anyone expecting a mixed group or consciously seeking a relaxed, non-sterile environment will find an interesting alternative here. For inquiries, the facility refers directly to its contact address. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Practically important are also the contact methods and the organization of everyday life on site. The youth farm can be reached by phone at 09131 21365 and by email at info@jugendfarm-er.de. Office hours, telephone hours, and visiting hours are clearly indicated, which improves planning. Additionally, the official website and the terms of use make the respectful coexistence on the premises clear: groups and institutional visits should only be made by prior registration, open meetings only with registration for insurance reasons, and there is a clear ban on alcohol, smoking, and e-cigarettes on the premises. The youth farm consciously works with an open but structured approach. This is pleasant for families because safety and clarity are palpable, and helpful for groups because processes function reliably. The social integration is also noteworthy: the youth farm is closely networked with the Lebenshilfe Erlangen and is described there as a partner with offerings for feeding animals, experiencing nature, and building something. This underscores the inclusive character of the facility and explains why it holds significance in Erlangen far beyond a normal leisure location. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Getting to the Youth Farm Erlangen and Outing in Meilwald
The location in Meilwald is one of the great advantages of the Youth Farm Erlangen. The tourism site describes it as an idyllic green island near the city and explicitly recommends combining the visit with a hike or bike ride through the Erlangen Meilwald. The Waldkrankenhaus is mentioned as a starting point, from where the Climate-Energy Forest Education Trail leads towards the youth farm. Those who want to extend the outing can also plan through the Environmental Café area, chicken coop, towel meadow, and back through the Schwabachtal. This makes the youth farm not only a destination but part of a larger nature route. This is particularly attractive for families looking for an active afternoon and for guests who want to experience Erlangen not only urban but also in terms of landscape. The surroundings make it clear that the youth farm is not isolated but embedded in a leisure and nature area that invites walks, bike rides, and small discovery tours. ([en.visit-erlangen.de](https://en.visit-erlangen.de/schaufenster/umweltstation_jugendfarm_erlan-929/))
There are also further leisure connections in the immediate vicinity. The city of Erlangen points out the proximity to the youth farm at the playground Spardorfer Straße / Youth Farm; there, among other things, there is a zip line and swings, and very close by at the Meilwald stage, there is a low ropes course. This shows that the area is overall strongly oriented towards families and movement. Those coming with children can therefore very well combine the visit with further activities instead of just planning a short stop. At the same time, one should consider the different objectives when arriving: the youth farm is a pedagogically structured place with fixed times, while the surrounding leisure areas act more as complements. Together, this creates a coherent day trip with nature, play, and learning. For search intentions related to arrival, parking, animals, and outings, this mix is crucial because it describes not only the location but the overall experience. Therefore, anyone looking for a location that is suitable for both a short family visit and a longer outing in Meilwald will find the Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen to be the right choice. ([erlangen.de](https://erlangen.de/aktuelles/spielplatz-spardorfer-strasse?utm_source=openai))
Sources:
- Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen - Official Website
- Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen - Group Offers PDF
- Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen - Terms of Use PDF
- Visit Erlangen - Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen
- Bavarian State Portal - State-Recognized Environmental Station
Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen | Opening Hours & Animals
The Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen is a nature-oriented leisure and educational facility located at Spardorfer Straße 82 in Erlangen. It is situated in the urban Meilwald, combining animal experiences with nature education and has been a fixed place for open child and youth work, holiday programs, school projects, and group programs since 1974. The official tourism site describes the youth farm as a green island with a large area, animal enclosures, riding area, garden spaces, biotope, fire pits, play construction area, climbing facilities, huts, and café. The Bavarian State Portal recognized the facility as a state-recognized environmental station in 2015; it was emphasized at that time that the youth farm has been providing children and young people the opportunity to experience the animal world and nature for 40 years. This combination of practice, experience, and environmental education makes the youth farm a place that appeals not only to families but also to daycare centers, schools, clubs, and social institutions. Those looking for a location where animals, forest, movement, and educational offerings come together will find an exceptionally versatile destination here. ([en.visit-erlangen.de](https://en.visit-erlangen.de/schaufenster/umweltstation_jugendfarm_erlan-929/))
Opening Hours, Visiting Rules, and Registration
For many visitors, the opening hours are the first crucial point. The official website states the general visiting hours outside of school holidays as Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 5 PM and Saturday from 11 AM to 4 PM; the youth farm is closed on Sundays. Additionally, office hours and telephone availability are clearly regulated: The office is staffed Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 2 PM, and the team can be reached by phone on Mondays from 10 AM to 12 PM, Wednesdays from 12 PM to 2 PM, and Fridays from 1 PM to 3 PM. During school holidays, the normal visiting hours are suspended because holiday care takes place. This structure is important because the youth farm is not a classic zoo with continuous public operation, but a pedagogically organized facility with fixed time slots and clear processes. This allows for planned offerings, and at the same time, the animals, learning areas, and supervision can be well organized. Therefore, anyone wanting to come spontaneously should always check the current times first and not assume continuous open operation. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
The visiting rules are also part of the concept and should be taken seriously. According to the terms of use, the youth farm can be visited during opening hours, but larger groups or groups in institutional contexts must be registered. There are no age restrictions for educational offerings, and children with disabilities can also participate after prior contact and agreement. Furthermore, there is a comprehensive behavioral concept on the premises: Animals should not be fed independently, animal enclosures should not be entered independently, dogs must be kept on a leash, and there is a general ban on alcohol and smoking, including e-cigarettes, throughout the entire area. Fire pits may only be used in the presence of a staff member, and construction in the play construction area is only allowed with pedagogical supervision. These rules are not a bureaucratic end in themselves but serve to protect children, animals, and facilities. Visitors to the youth farm experience a lot of freedom and movement, but within a clear framework that connects safety and pedagogical quality. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_allg-nutzungsbedingungen.pdf))
Animals, Open Meeting, and Nature Experience in Meilwald
The animal world is one of the most important reasons why the Youth Farm Erlangen is so frequently sought after and visited. The tourism description mentions ponies, donkeys, sheep, goats, small animals, and chickens on the premises. In addition, there are riding areas, garden spaces, biotope, fire pits, play construction area, climbing facilities, and huts. This mix ensures that a visit is not limited to merely observing animals but always includes movement, discovery, and hands-on experiences. This is particularly attractive for families with children, as various interests can be combined: observing animals, being outdoors in nature, learning playfully, building something, or simply spending time outside. Therefore, the youth farm is rightly described not only as a place for animals but as a space for experiences. Those looking for more than a quick tour can create a whole afternoon outing here, where different age groups can find their own highlights. The facility is also intentionally close to nature and well integrated into the Meilwald, so that the journey there can already be part of the experience. ([en.visit-erlangen.de](https://en.visit-erlangen.de/schaufenster/umweltstation_jugendfarm_erlan-929/))
Additionally, the Open Meeting defines the youth farm as a lively meeting place. According to the website, the Open Meeting is free of charge, but registration is necessary for insurance reasons. The facility mentions a family membership or alternatively an annual insurance contribution per child as a way to participate. This shows that the youth farm is not just a destination for outings but also a regular social meeting point. This profile is complemented by the so-called Little Ones' Meeting for younger children and course formats such as Mama, Papa & Our Animals or My Little Farm. These programs make it clear that the youth farm does not simply present animals but connects relationships, experiences, and learning. For parents looking for a place where children can be relaxed, protected, and active at the same time, this is a strong argument. And for people who enjoy being outdoors, the youth farm, with its location in the Meilwald, the spacious grounds, and many playful elements, becomes a particularly versatile destination. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Holiday Care, Courses, and Workshops for Children
A central part of the offering is holiday care. According to the current information sheet, it is aimed at children between 6 and 12 years old, with holiday programs available for children starting from 4 years. The care runs during the holidays in full-day weekly models, and the youth farm points out that a warm lunch and drinks are included in the paid offering. Drop-off and pick-up times are clearly organized so that families can plan the process well. The official terms of use also emphasize that during holiday periods, the youth farm is responsible for supervision, and children must check in and out when entering and leaving the premises. For many parents, this is an important safety and organizational feature, as this is not just care but a structured educational framework. At the same time, the combination of nature, animals, movement, and group life makes the holiday week particularly varied for children. Those looking for a reliable, outdoor-oriented holiday solution will find an offering here that is pedagogically thought out and organizationally clearly regulated. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_info-ferienbetreuung.pdf))
The courses and workshops also show how broad the youth farm's offerings are. The website lists offerings such as Mama, Papa & Our Animals for the youngest, My Little Farm for children aged 5 to 7 years, Children's Workshop for little craftsmen, and Parent-Child Blacksmithing. There are also other formats that change regularly and are sometimes fully booked. Particularly exciting is that the youth farm formulates its own themes in a very everyday manner: animals, crafts, tinkering, trying out, and discovering together are at the forefront. This makes the offerings tangible and distinguishes them from purely theoretical environmental courses. For families looking for a meaningful leisure program, this connection between practice and nature is valuable. At the same time, the current website shows that due to restructuring measures, children's birthday parties are currently not being offered. This is important information for anyone considering the youth farm as a venue. This creates an honest picture: The youth farm currently clearly focuses on education, care, nature experiences, and group work, not on classic birthday parties. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Group Offers for Schools, Daycare Centers, and Social Institutions
The Youth Farm Erlangen is particularly interesting for groups because educational offerings can be organized year-round. The official group offering is aimed at children's groups from 4 years old, teenagers, and adults of all ages. Groups from kindergartens, schools, social institutions, and other institutional contexts can book half-day or full-day programs tailored to their specific target group. The facility emphasizes that participants with special needs can be well integrated into the activities. This inclusive approach is a strong feature of the youth farm, as it combines nature experience with participation. For school classes and daycare centers, this is not just a nice outing but a pedagogically usable learning field that combines movement space, animal encounters, and nature knowledge. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/2024-umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_info-gruppenangebote.pdf))
The list of themes for group offerings is extensive and shows how broadly the pedagogical approach is conceived. Among other things, visits to the animals, donkey trekking, Circus Lillimo, hut building like R. Crusoe, Bee wild, Nature Strollers, Herb Workshop, Crafts, Such a Theater, and experiential pedagogical group offerings are mentioned. These names already reveal that this is not about a static zoo visit but about activating learning formats. During the visit to the animals, children get to know the animals together with staff members and feed them in small groups. During donkey trekking, participants go on a guided hike through the Meilwald with the donkeys Sandro, Emma, and Kessy for about three hours, with an adult needing to lead each donkey and the group limited to a maximum of 12 people. Bee wild, on the other hand, focuses on biodiversity, bees, nature conservation, and biodiversity education. This combination of experience, knowledge, and action orientation makes the youth farm so valuable for schools, daycare centers, and projects. The themes are not abstract but immediately experienceable, creating a learning space that remains memorable for both children and adults. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/pdf/2024-umweltstation-jugendfarm-erlangen_info-gruppenangebote.pdf))
Renting Group Rooms, Accessibility, and Practical Information
The youth farm is not only a place for children's programs but is also suitable for seminars, workshops, and meetings of groups. The website describes a divisible group room with a total of 80 m², which can accommodate up to 60 people in cinema seating. The equipment includes a projector, screen, and speakers; additionally, a sound system can be booked. Accessibility is particularly important: the rooms are barrier-free, and there is a wheelchair-accessible toilet. This makes the location suitable for clubs, working groups, educational formats, or smaller events that seek a functional yet nature-oriented setting. Compared to classic seminar venues, the youth farm has its own character because here space, nature, and the educational environment come together directly. Therefore, anyone expecting a mixed group or consciously seeking a relaxed, non-sterile environment will find an interesting alternative here. For inquiries, the facility refers directly to its contact address. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Practically important are also the contact methods and the organization of everyday life on site. The youth farm can be reached by phone at 09131 21365 and by email at info@jugendfarm-er.de. Office hours, telephone hours, and visiting hours are clearly indicated, which improves planning. Additionally, the official website and the terms of use make the respectful coexistence on the premises clear: groups and institutional visits should only be made by prior registration, open meetings only with registration for insurance reasons, and there is a clear ban on alcohol, smoking, and e-cigarettes on the premises. The youth farm consciously works with an open but structured approach. This is pleasant for families because safety and clarity are palpable, and helpful for groups because processes function reliably. The social integration is also noteworthy: the youth farm is closely networked with the Lebenshilfe Erlangen and is described there as a partner with offerings for feeding animals, experiencing nature, and building something. This underscores the inclusive character of the facility and explains why it holds significance in Erlangen far beyond a normal leisure location. ([jugendfarm-er.de](https://www.jugendfarm-er.de/))
Getting to the Youth Farm Erlangen and Outing in Meilwald
The location in Meilwald is one of the great advantages of the Youth Farm Erlangen. The tourism site describes it as an idyllic green island near the city and explicitly recommends combining the visit with a hike or bike ride through the Erlangen Meilwald. The Waldkrankenhaus is mentioned as a starting point, from where the Climate-Energy Forest Education Trail leads towards the youth farm. Those who want to extend the outing can also plan through the Environmental Café area, chicken coop, towel meadow, and back through the Schwabachtal. This makes the youth farm not only a destination but part of a larger nature route. This is particularly attractive for families looking for an active afternoon and for guests who want to experience Erlangen not only urban but also in terms of landscape. The surroundings make it clear that the youth farm is not isolated but embedded in a leisure and nature area that invites walks, bike rides, and small discovery tours. ([en.visit-erlangen.de](https://en.visit-erlangen.de/schaufenster/umweltstation_jugendfarm_erlan-929/))
There are also further leisure connections in the immediate vicinity. The city of Erlangen points out the proximity to the youth farm at the playground Spardorfer Straße / Youth Farm; there, among other things, there is a zip line and swings, and very close by at the Meilwald stage, there is a low ropes course. This shows that the area is overall strongly oriented towards families and movement. Those coming with children can therefore very well combine the visit with further activities instead of just planning a short stop. At the same time, one should consider the different objectives when arriving: the youth farm is a pedagogically structured place with fixed times, while the surrounding leisure areas act more as complements. Together, this creates a coherent day trip with nature, play, and learning. For search intentions related to arrival, parking, animals, and outings, this mix is crucial because it describes not only the location but the overall experience. Therefore, anyone looking for a location that is suitable for both a short family visit and a longer outing in Meilwald will find the Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen to be the right choice. ([erlangen.de](https://erlangen.de/aktuelles/spielplatz-spardorfer-strasse?utm_source=openai))
Sources:
- Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen - Official Website
- Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen - Group Offers PDF
- Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen - Terms of Use PDF
- Visit Erlangen - Environmental Station Youth Farm Erlangen
- Bavarian State Portal - State-Recognized Environmental Station
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Reviews
S.D.Raj kumar
31. August 2025
Horse, chicken, rabbit, donkey, sheep. No more animals. The play area for kids needs improvement. Good place for walking and jogging. Overall, you can spend quality time here for about 1.5 hours.
Jake P
6. June 2016
Wonderful experience for kids of all ages. Plenty of animals and lots of space. You can even bring your own grill and enjoy it out in the open.
Patrick Lindner
9. February 2026
As spontaneous visitors, our two-year-old son was not allowed into the enclosure, even though a group of three children was right in front of him and it clearly wouldn't have been a problem. There was no one else there, and the parking lot was empty. Reason given: Not booked in advance. Volunteering is commendable, but why this kind of treatment of small children? I don't see any focus on providing positive experiences for children with animals and nature here.
N F
1. June 2023
A relaxed place for children and parents to explore and let off steam. It was quite busy on Pentecost Sunday 😀 Here, children can experience animals like sheep, donkeys, goats, rabbits, ponies, and free-range chickens 🐓 They also offer a holiday program including childcare, which we'll definitely try out sometime. Keep up the good work 👏 The "Chicken Coop" environmental café is also located on the grounds, but unfortunately, it was closed due to the holiday (we'll visit it next time) 😀
Best Terra
26. October 2022
A very good place for children's recreation. Lots of entertainment for children: swings, seesaws, bungee jumps, tree houses, and lots of animals, some of which you can pet. Large, well-groomed territory. For children, games here can take up the whole day. You can also celebrate children's birthdays here. We all liked this place. I advise everyone to visit!!!