Nature preservation in Michigan

The William B. Derby Nature Preserve is a popular park and tourist attraction located in Cedarville, Michigan. This beautiful preserve is dominated by cedar trees and features hummocky topography with large, moss-covered boulders scattered throughout. The porous limestone/dolomite rocks are home to nurse trees, creating a magical atmosphere for hikers. Visitors can enjoy a 1.5-mile trail loop that offers stunning views of "The Snows Channel," a great spot for birdwatching and kayaking. The preserve is also a designated stop along the North Huron Birding Trail. Public parking is available, thanks to the Les Cheneaux Club and Les Cheneaux Community Foundation.

Sally Smoly Nature Playscape is a unique outdoor learning environment located at 95 College Avenue in Holland, Michigan, United States. This institution provides a hands-on experience for children to explore and interact with the natural world in a safe and educational setting. With a focus on environmental education and sustainability, Sally Smoly Nature Playscape offers a variety of activities and programs that encourage creativity, curiosity, and a love for nature. Visitors can enjoy nature trails, interactive exhibits, and play areas designed to inspire a sense of wonder and appreciation for the environment. Come visit Sally Smoly Nature Playscape and discover the beauty and excitement of the great outdoors!

The Kensington Nature Center is a tranquil oasis located in Milford Charter Township, Michigan, United States. This park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks. The center also features educational exhibits and programs that showcase the diverse wildlife and ecosystems found in the area. Visitors can explore the beautiful surroundings and learn about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or embark on an educational adventure, the Kensington Nature Center is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

The Allan and Virginia McCune Nature Preserve, located in Michigan, United States, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction dominated by hardwood forest. The property also includes red pine plantations, a meadow, a creek, and a cedar swamp. Visitors can explore roughly 4 miles of trails and enjoy the spring-fed Minnehaha Creek, which flows through the preserve on its way to Crooked Lake. The preserve was generously donated to the Little Traverse Conservancy in 1984 by Allan and Virginia McCune. Additional features such as footbridges, parking areas, and trail systems have been added over the years with support from the community and in memory of loved ones. Two parking areas are available for visitors to access the preserve, with addresses provided for both the West and East parking areas. Don't forget to check out the plants and animals at the preserve using the iNaturalist guide and help document more species with iNaturalist.org and eBird.org.

The Agnes S. Andreae Nature Preserve, located along the lower Pigeon River in Afton, Michigan, is a serene park and tourist attraction offering pine forests, steep bluffs, and over five miles of trails to explore. Donated by Agnes S. Andreae in 1983, the preserve has since expanded to 181 acres with a cabin, footbridge, and hiking trail. The adjacent Boyd B. Banwell Preserve offers additional hunting opportunities. The Nature Megaphone on the Banwell Preserve allows visitors to enhance their sensory experience in nature. The Andreae Cabin is available for use by non-profit or community groups with reservations. Visit this beautiful preserve to enjoy the peaceful wilderness and discover the diverse plants and animals it houses.

Ransom Lake Natural Area is a serene park and tourist attraction located at 5533 Lake Ann Road in Lake Ann, Michigan, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings of the lake. With walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views, Ransom Lake Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out or a place to explore and reconnect with nature, this institution is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 16791 Northwood Highway in Arcadia, Michigan, United States. This serene and picturesque preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the marshland. With walking trails, bird watching opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to explore the great outdoors, this park has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to visit this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan.

Clay Cliffs Natural Area, managed by The Leelanau Conservancy, is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 4755 North Manitou Trail in Leland, Michigan. This natural area offers breathtaking views of both Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan and boasts a rare and fragile ecosystem on its sheer clay bluffs. Visitors can enjoy a 1.5 mile trail system that showcases the beauty of the hardwood forest and wildflower sites, as well as a viewing platform above the bluffs with panoramic views of Lake Michigan. The area is home to nesting eagles and a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Clay Cliffs Natural Area was preserved in 2013 through a partnership with Leland Township and the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, and continues to be a valuable conservation resource for the community. Visitors are reminded to appreciate the view from a safe distance and help preserve the wonders of Leelanau County by volunteering or donating funds to support the conservation efforts.

Elberta Dunes South Natural Area (EDNA) is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1200-1204 Frankfort Avenue in Frankfort, Michigan, United States. This natural area boasts beautiful sand dunes, lush vegetation, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can explore the trails, relax on the sandy beaches, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this hidden gem on the shores of the Great Lakes. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat in nature or a fun day out with family and friends, EDNA is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Welcome to Otto Nature Preserve, your serene escape into nature located at 3001 16th Avenue, Shelby, Michigan. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque countryside, our preserve offers a tranquil haven for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our well-maintained trails, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to meditate, a scenic backdrop for a picnic, or an educational experience for children, Otto Nature Preserve provides an ideal setting.

For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 2142 North Genesee Road in Burton, Michigan, United States. This institution boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as beautifully maintained gardens and walking trails for visitors to explore. With its serene atmosphere and educational programs, For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of this natural oasis in the heart of Michigan.

The Hoogland Family Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 4135 South Lake Shore Drive in Harbor Springs, Michigan, United States. Spanning nearly 3,000 feet along Scenic Heritage Route M-119, also known as the Tunnel of Trees, this preserve offers a unique natural experience. The landscape of the preserve varies, with flat areas on the west side and rolling ridges to the east. The forest is filled with large red oak trees and features a classic maple and beech northern upland forest typical of northwestern Emmet County. In the spring, the woods come alive with trillium, trout lily, spring beauty, and other spring ephemerals.

North Point Nature Preserve is a hidden gem located on Mount McSauba Road in Charlevoix, Michigan. This 28-acre park offers a peaceful escape into nature, with a .65 mile wooded trail that provides stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding wildlife. The preserve is home to three threatened plant species, making it a unique and important ecological area. Adjacent to the Mt. McSauba Recreation Area, North Point Nature Preserve is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a network of trails that are perfect for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in the winter months. Despite the proximity to the city, the preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, porcupines, and shore birds.

Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at Gilbert Road in Arcadia, Michigan, United States. Spanning over 3800 acres across Benzie County and Manistee County, this preserve offers 20 trail miles for visitors to explore and enjoy. Managed by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, Arcadia Dunes provides a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, bird watching, mountain biking, and hunting. The preserve is open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes of dunes, forests, and working farms.

The Boardman River Nature Center is a serene park and tourist attraction located at 1450 Cass Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This beautiful center offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, including the scenic Boardman River. With hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and educational exhibits, the Boardman River Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Northern Michigan.

Anderson Woods Nature Preserve is located at 3943 Simonelli Road in Muskegon, Michigan, United States. This park is a Category 1 LCWM nature preserve, featuring designated parking, well-marked trail systems, and interpretive signs. The two-mile Sandy Hansen Birding Trail offers visitors the chance to explore the forest and spot wildlife such as birds, deer, and turkeys. The South Loop is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, while the North Loop provides a more rustic experience. The Land Conservancy of West Michigan manages the preserve, focusing on keeping invasive species at bay and maintaining the health of the forest through prescribed burns. The preserve was generously donated by Judy Anderson in 2013, in honor of her father Theodore Anderson, who cherished the land. The Land Conservancy of West Michigan is a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving natural land in the region.

Pilgrim Haven Natural Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in South Haven Charter Township, Michigan, United States. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through the spring wildflowers, explore the beech-maple forest trails, search for water critters in Dyckman Creek, or relax on the Lake Michigan shoreline. The institution offers maps, information on how to get there, details on natural features and conservation efforts, preserve history, and a photo gallery. Accessibility is a priority at Pilgrim Haven, with a gently sloping concrete path leading to the beach for those using mobility devices. The beach itself may vary between sandy and rocky, depending on the year. Visitors are welcome to collect a small number of rocks for study or souvenirs, but large quantities are prohibited.

The Wege Foundation Natural Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Lowell, Michigan, United States. The institution features a well-established system of trails that lead hikers through diverse habitats, including mature hardwood forests, young mixed woodlands, and old fields undergoing restoration. Visitors can cool off in Lee Creek, a coldwater tributary of the Grand River, and explore trails on the neighboring Wittenbach Center property. The trails at Wege Foundation Natural Area are marked with color-coded blazes on the trees, and the natural surface trail is 1.5 feet wide with a gentle grade. The institution is a Category 1 LCWM nature preserve, with designated parking and well-marked trail systems. Interpretive signs, overlooks, and points of interest are available for visitors to learn more about the area's natural beauty.

The Farmington Hills Nature Center is a charming park and popular tourist attraction located at 24915 Farmington Road in Farmington Hills, Michigan, United States. This serene oasis offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with winding trails, lush greenery, and peaceful surroundings. The center also features educational programs, interactive exhibits, and a variety of events for all ages to enjoy. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or simply relax in a tranquil setting, the Farmington Hills Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Stony Creek Metropark Nature Center, located at 4300 Main Park Road in Michigan, United States, is a popular tourist attraction nestled within a beautiful park setting. The Nature Center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse wildlife and ecosystems found within the park. With interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided nature walks, visitors of all ages can discover the natural wonders of Stony Creek Metropark. Whether you're interested in bird watching, hiking, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings, the Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Susan Creek Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 10966 Burgess Road in Charlevoix, Michigan, United States. The preserve boasts nearly a mile of frontage on Susan Creek and US-31, providing excellent wildlife habitat with wet meadows, black ash swamp, cedar thickets, ponds, and hardwoods. Visitors can explore 2.37 miles of trails, including a winter-only ski loop, and enjoy the diverse natural surroundings. This preserve is a success story in the protection of the scenic road corridor between Petoskey and Charlevoix, with funding from various organizations and foundations. The entrance to Susan Creek is conveniently located four miles east of Charlevoix city limits and 11 miles west of Petoskey, making it easily accessible for visitors. The preserve is adjacent to a 55-acre preserve owned by the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.

The Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area Trailhead is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 3169 Eckhardt Road in Bellaire, Michigan, United States. Visitors can explore the beautiful natural landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, and meadows. The trailhead offers a variety of hiking and biking trails for all skill levels, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature walk or an adventurous mountain biking experience, the Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area Trailhead is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Maplehurst Natural Area is a stunning 389-acre park located in Kewadin, Michigan. This beautiful property, protected by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, features a mix of steep hardwood forests, open meadows, and the picturesque Lake Maplehurst. Once home to the beloved Camp Maplehurst, this area offers excellent views of Torch Lake, Elk Lake, and Grand Traverse Bay. Visitors can enjoy a diverse trail system that opened to the public in 2019. Help protect this special place by preventing the spread of invasive species when boating or fishing in Michigan's waterways. Join us in preserving this natural gem for future generations.

Oden Island Nature Preserve is a peaceful park and tourist attraction located at 3160 Leeward Drive in Petoskey, Michigan, United States. The preserve features large old-growth trees and fragile wetlands, providing a serene environment for visitors to enjoy. Parking is available at the trailhead, where approximately one mile of foot trails offers views of the island's eastern perimeter and two benches for lakeside relaxation. In 2000, a successful fundraising effort led to the Conservancy's purchase of this undeveloped waterfront property, preventing a controversial 34-unit subdivision from being built. The preserve now plays a crucial role in maintaining the water quality of Crooked Lake, which connects to the Inland Waterway. The community came together to raise nearly $1 million in just three months for the acquisition, showcasing a strong commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area.

Seven Springs Nature Preserve is a stunning park located at 2787 Chippewa Beach Road in Indian River, Michigan, United States. This preserve is home to numerous springs along the shore, providing habitat for endangered species. The upper portions of the preserve feature beautiful upland forest, while the lower portions boast densely forested wetlands below a dramatic bluff. The wave-swept shore consists of cobble beaches and beds of emergent rushes, creating a suitable habitat for fish and other aquatic life. A local favorite for great views and light hiking, Seven Springs Nature Preserve offers 1.2 miles of trails and a lake overlook from the parking area. The Harris and Weiss families of Columbus Beach played a vital role in initiating the protection of this land, partnering to fund its purchase and coordinate fundraising efforts with support from Columbus Beach families, Burt Lake residents, and resorters.

Located in Saugatuck, Michigan, the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area is a park and tourist attraction that offers a unique and diverse ecosystem for visitors to explore. Accessible from the adjacent Oval Beach Park, the natural area features hiking trails that loop through dunes, wetlands, and along the shores of Lake Michigan and the Kalamazoo River. Visitors can enjoy scenic views and spot migratory shorebirds at the beach. The area is home to rare plant and animal species, including the prairie warbler and Blanchard’s cricket frog, making it a significant conservation site. The interdunal wetlands in the natural area are globally imperiled, making their protection crucial for the surrounding ecosystem. The historic significance of the area, including the old mouth of the Kalamazoo River and the abandoned fishing settlement of Fishtown, adds to its appeal.

Hofma Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 16295 Sleeper Street in Grand Haven, Michigan, United States. This scenic preserve offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its lush greenery, winding trails, and picturesque views. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings, Hofma Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and explore this hidden gem in Grand Haven and experience the beauty of nature at its finest.

Bundy Hill Preserve, located at 10991-10999 West River Road in Remus, Michigan, is a 100-acre park and tourist attraction that protects the highest point in Isabella County and a surrounding buffer of hardwood forest. Purchased in 2016 from the family of Wakelin and Kathleen McNeel, who owned the property since the 1950s, the preserve features approximately 1.67 miles of hiking trails that lead to the summit of Bundy Hill. The summit, which is 1,270 feet above sea level, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including a U.S. Coast & Geodetic Survey marker dating back to 1932. The preserve is part of a larger glacial moraine and is home to large boulders known as glacial erratics, with the largest boulder being a 40-foot circumference granite boulder located just north of the summit. Visitors to Bundy Hill can enjoy activities such as hiking, birding, nature photography, and mushroom hunting year-round. The preserve is particularly popular in the fall for viewing fall colors, attracting an estimated 9,000 annual visitors. The property is open to the public and welcomes dogs on leashes, but bicycles and horseback riding are prohibited. With its scenic trails and unique geological features, Bundy Hill Preserve offers a peaceful escape into nature for visitors of all ages.

The West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve, located at 4655 Arrowhead Road in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan, is a 162-acre park that has been designated as an Urban Wildlife Sanctuary by the National Institute for Urban Wildlife. Situated along the West Bloomfield Trail, the preserve is home to over 100 bird species, white-tail deer, red fox, coyote, weasel, mink, and salamanders. Visitors can enjoy the sight of white trillium and yellow trout lilies carpeting the forest floor, while mature oak and hickory trees provide shade and shelter. Additionally, the preserve boasts large black walnuts and wild dogwoods, creating a diverse and vibrant ecosystem for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

The Drayton Plains Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 2125 Denby Drive in Waterford Township, Michigan. This peaceful sanctuary offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Please note that no alcohol is allowed in or around the facility. For more information about the Nature Center, be sure to like us on Facebook.