Nature preservation in Michigan

The Lake St. Clair Metropark Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 31300 Metro Parkway in Harrison Township, Michigan, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse plant and animal life that call the park home. With scenic trails, educational exhibits, and interactive programs, the Lake St. Clair Metropark Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come discover the beauty and wonder of this natural oasis in the heart of Michigan.

Vermilion Point Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on North Vermillion Road in Paradise, Michigan, United States. This preserve offers a unique and remote experience, defined by the beauty and ever-changing moods of Lake Superior. Visitors can explore a wide sandy beach, low shore dunes, upland forest, old cranberry bog wetlands, and a stream. The land is a known habitat for the federally endangered piping plover. Please note that dogs are not allowed at this preserve from May 1 to August 15, but are permitted on leash the rest of the year. A dirt road leads to a parking area with easy access to the beach, where a marked trail is open for exploration. Protected in 2007 through a bargain sale and grants, this property was once a life-saving station built in 1876. Researchers from various organizations use the preserve to study birds and wetlands. Visitors can learn more about the plants and animals found here using the iNaturalist guide. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Vermilion Point Nature Preserve.

Pelizzari Natural Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6852 Center Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This natural area offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with scenic trails, lush greenery, and a variety of wildlife to observe. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous hike, Pelizzari Natural Area provides the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan's stunning landscape.

The Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1450 Cass Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This beautiful reserve offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, with lush forests, sparkling rivers, and diverse wildlife to explore. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in nature, the Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and experience the wonder of this pristine natural sanctuary in the heart of Michigan.

Maple Bay Natural Area is a serene and picturesque park located along U.S. 31 in Williamsburg, Michigan. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with stunning views of the bay and surrounding woodlands. Explore the walking trails, take in the fresh air, and enjoy a peaceful picnic by the water's edge. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out or a place to connect with the great outdoors, Maple Bay Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

The Lewis E. Wint Nature Center is a charming park located at 9501 Sashabaw Road in the City of the Village of Clarkston, Michigan, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the local flora and fauna through interactive exhibits, nature trails, and educational programs. With its picturesque surroundings and knowledgeable staff, the Lewis E. Wint Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Duncan Bay Nature Preserve, located at 829 Duncan Avenue in Cheboygan, Michigan, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that offers a unique opportunity to explore Lake Huron shore wetlands. This diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of migratory waterfowl and other water-dependent species, making it a vital area for conservation efforts. The preserve features an easy trail and boardwalk that lead visitors to the picturesque Lake Huron shoreline, providing a peaceful and immersive experience in nature. The original purchase of the land was made in 2014, with subsequent acquisitions funded through donations and a grant from Huron Pines. Additional funding was raised to construct a boardwalk and bridge, which was completed in the summer of 2019 and dedicated on August 24th of that year.

The Wilcox-Palmer-Shah Preserve, located on North Bayshore Drive in Elk Rapids, Michigan, is a beautiful park managed by The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy. This preserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, snowshoeing, bird watching, and other passive activities. Visitors can also contribute to important scientific research through the iNaturalist community science platform, sharing observations of flora and fauna found on the preserve. In addition to enjoying the stunning beach and dune habitat, visitors can learn about the unique ecosystems present at the preserve, including rare plant species such as Pitcher's Thistle and Lake Huron Tansy. To protect these sensitive habitats, it is important to keep dogs on leash and stay along the water's edge.

Black River Preserve, located in South Haven, Michigan, offers visitors a diverse range of habitats to explore, including deep ravines, beech-maple forests, streams, and rolling uplands. The park features hiking trails, bridges, and boardwalks constructed by the dedicated volunteer group, the Black River Stewards. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, bird watching, and more. The preserve has 120 acres of heavily rolling forest with wet meadows and upland fields. It provides nesting habitat for waterfowl and waterbirds, as well as breeding grounds for various bird species. A botanical census found 400 plant species, 85% of which are native to Southwest Michigan.

West Lake Nature Preserve is a stunning 110-acre wetland bog located at 9001 South Westnedge Avenue in Portage, Michigan. With 1,400 feet of frontage along West Lake, this park is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park features a bark trail that winds through a shaded lowland forest, offering visitors a peaceful and serene environment to explore. At the end of the trail, visitors can enjoy a dock promenade that provides a panoramic view of West Lake, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding nature. The preserve is located in close proximity to the City Centre, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.

Bishop's Bog Preserve is a hidden gem located at 9920 South Westnedge Avenue in Portage, Michigan. This 152-acre park is a popular tourist attraction and offers visitors a chance to explore the largest "relict" bog in Southern Michigan. The preserve is home to several rare plant species, including the Orange Fringed Orchid and Stemless Pink Ladyslipper, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. The park features walking and nature trails as its main amenity, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Bishop's Bog Preserve is registered with the Nature Conservancy and is a valuable resource for the City of Portage. The park is thoughtfully planned and well-maintained, reflecting the community's attitudes, desires, and dreams.

Chipman Preserve, located in Galesburg, Michigan, is a large park and tourist attraction managed by the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy. This preserve features restored prairie and oak savanna habitats, with miles of trails for hiking, running, and cross-country skiing. The trails wind through hilly terrain, showcasing a variety of flora and fauna throughout the seasons. Visitors can enjoy spring and summer wildflowers, fall colors, wildlife viewing, and more. Dogs are welcome at Chipman Preserve but must be kept on a leash at all times. The preserve is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, with ongoing habitat restoration efforts to support rare and endangered plants. The Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy works with community partners to monitor and enhance wildlife habitats at the preserve.

Round Island Point Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at Cedar Drive in Brimley, Michigan, United States. This large protected habitat in the Upper Peninsula is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, wolves, moose, and bobcats. The property is also a central flyway for migrating waterfowl and birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching. While much of the preserve is challenging to access, a paved road cuts through the property, providing easy access to the lake. There are no established trails leading directly to the lake, but a 1½ mile inland trail and viewing area are accessible from the parking area.

Pyatt Lake: The Bill Carls Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Pyatt Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This beautiful nature preserve offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the serene surroundings of Pyatt Lake, while also enjoying the diverse wildlife and plant species that call the area home. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, go for a hike, or simply appreciate the natural beauty of the area, Pyatt Lake: The Bill Carls Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The John Arthur Woollam Preserve is a 185-acre park located at Michigan 134 in Cedarville, Michigan, United States. The highlight of this preserve is the 4,300 feet of sand and cobble beach along Lake Huron, with stunning rocky shoreline, huge boulders, coastal wetlands, and a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy significant shoreline for migratory and breeding birds, as well as habitat for plant species like Houghton's goldenrod. The warm waters near the shore attract masses of flying insects, providing a feast for migrating birds. Conservation of the shoreline is a main goal of the preserve.

Misty Acres: The Borwell Preserve is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located in Benzonia, Michigan, United States. This picturesque preserve offers visitors a tranquil escape into nature, with lush greenery, peaceful walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the great outdoors, Misty Acres is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come experience the beauty and serenity of Misty Acres: The Borwell Preserve today.

Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 8501 Meinert Park Road in Montague, Michigan, United States. Visitors can park at Meinert Park and walk a short distance along the beach to reach the preserve. The preserve offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding area from the dunes. Trails are marked with blue blazes and offer a mix of sand, boardwalks, and stairs for hikers to explore the diverse landscape. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, including the threatened Pitcher's thistle. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and observing migratory species along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The area has a rich history, with evidence of Native American settlements and European logging activities. Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve is managed by the Land Conservancy of West Michigan, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving natural land in the region.

Hawthorn Pond Natural Area is a peaceful and picturesque park located at 9876 Black River Court in Holland, Michigan, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors the chance to explore and connect with nature, featuring a serene pond surrounded by lush greenery and walking trails. It is a popular tourist attraction for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, Hawthorn Pond Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Al Sabo Land Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6310 Texas Drive in Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States. This 741-acre nature preserve offers visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and prairies. With over 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, visitors can enjoy scenic views, wildlife sightings, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking for a relaxing afternoon in nature or a challenging outdoor adventure, Al Sabo Land Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy.

Located at 2003 Perry Street in Holland, Michigan, the Kuker-Van Til Nature Preserve is a peaceful park and tourist attraction just minutes away from the bustling city. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the preserve's rolling hills and towering trees, experiencing the diverse habitats of wetlands, forests, and open areas that provide a sanctuary for birds and wildlife. The preserve protects a recovering oak forest in an area that has been heavily impacted by residential development. The mature hardwood swamp at the east end of the preserve is home to many rare plant species and serves as a natural filter for water flowing into Lake Macatawa. Efforts are ongoing to remove invasive species and establish a native oak forest in place of an old scotch pine plantation.

Bow in the Clouds Preserve is a hidden gem located at 3401 Nazareth Road in Kalamazoo, Michigan. This park and tourist attraction offers a variety of features and activities for visitors to enjoy, including maps, natural features, and a rich history. The preserve boasts a gravel loop trail that leads to a viewing platform with stunning views of the marsh below. Visitors can also explore a boardwalk through a large wetland, as well as a trail that leads to a small pond. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash, and there are accessible trails for all to enjoy. The preserve is home to diverse wildlife and plant life, making it a perfect spot for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the beauty of nature. With its rich history and commitment to conservation, Bow in the Clouds Preserve provides a peaceful and educational experience for all who visit.

Kensington Preserve Apartments, located at 105 Heron Drive Northwest in Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers a beautiful living experience both inside and out. With various floor plan options, modern finishes, and amenities, residents can enjoy comfortable and fulfilling living. The apartments boast picturesque views of natural surroundings, providing a serene atmosphere. Prospective residents can choose from three different floor plans, each offering similar modern finishes and amenities. The options vary in bed/bath ratios, square footage, and rent/deposit prices to cater to individual needs. The available floor plans range from 930 to 1,214 square feet, with rent prices between $1,325 and $1,700.

Rogers Family Homestead Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located on Erie Street in East Jordan, Michigan, United States. The preserve is part of the Rogers Family / Dressel / Jordan River Preserve Complex, spanning a total of 208 acres. The Rogers Family portion covers 156 acres, while the Jordan River section is 40 acres, the Dressel area is 10 acres, and the Jordan River Sedge Marsh is 2 acres. Visitors to the preserve can explore a wide range of habitats, including mixed hardwood/conifer swamps and upland savannahs along the Jordan River. The preserve is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Paw Paw Prairie Fen Preserve is a park located on Van Kal Avenue in Mattawan, Michigan, United States. This preserve is home to unique prairie fens, wetlands fed by alkaline, mineral-rich groundwater that support diverse and rare plant life. The preserve was saved from development by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and now offers opportunities for hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing year-round. Visitors to Paw Paw Prairie Fen Preserve can explore the 1.5-mile loop trail, which is considered an easy route with well-packed terrain. The preserve is a great spot to observe migrating songbirds in August and September. The site also offers opportunities for geocaching, webinars, events, and volunteer opportunities.

Railroad Point Natural Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 3860 N. #D Long Lake Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This serene natural area offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of Northern Michigan, including lush forests, scenic trails, and peaceful waterfront views. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll through nature or a place to enjoy a picnic with family and friends, Railroad Point Natural Area is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of this hidden gem in Traverse City.

The Maas Family Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 10450 Summit Avenue Northeast in Rockford, Michigan, United States. Visitors can enjoy the stunning carpet of purple lupine blooming in May and June, as well as the tall prairie grasses and wildflowers later in the summer. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including the federally-endangered Karner blue butterfly. The Land Conservancy is working to restore and expand the oak-pine barrens ecosystem on the preserve, making it a unique and important natural community in Michigan. Visitors are asked to stay on the trail to protect the delicate ecosystem and wildlife. The Maas Family Nature Preserve is a peaceful and scenic destination for hikers and bikers on the White Pine Trail, offering a chance to experience the beauty of nature in West Michigan.

Fochtman Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located along Round Lake in Harbor Springs, Michigan. The preserve features a mix of wetlands, uplands, and shoreline, providing a natural buffer in the developing region. Visitors can explore the preserve via the paved North Western State Trail, which runs through the property. The Round Lake overlook platform offers stunning views of the area. The Fochtman Preserve was acquired at a bargain sale from the Fochtman family in 2001, thanks to funds raised for the Conservancy’s Harbor Springs Greenbelt Program. This land was one of the last large undeveloped parcels between Petoskey and Harbor Springs.

Welcome to Paavola Wetlands Nature Area, a serene escape nestled in the heart of Hancock, Michigan. Located at No 9, Hancock, MI 49930, our park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Spanning lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, Paavola Wetlands is a haven for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Explore our well-maintained trails that wind through diverse wetland habitats, offering picturesque views and the chance to observe local wildlife in their natural environment. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely walk, capturing stunning photographs, or simply relaxing amidst the peaceful surroundings, Paavola Wetlands Nature Area provides the perfect setting for outdoor recreation and reflection.

Reffitt Nature Preserve is a peaceful and picturesque park located on West Lane in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This stunning tourist attraction offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with well-maintained trails for hiking and exploring the diverse flora and fauna. The preserve is a perfect destination for nature lovers, bird watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're seeking a relaxing stroll through the woods or a challenging hike with breathtaking views, Reffitt Nature Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the tranquility and serenity of this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan.

Minnie Skwarek Nature Preserve, located at 15160 Leonard Road in Spring Lake, Michigan, is a peaceful park and tourist attraction that offers a well-marked trail system through towering hardwood forests and over a babbling stream. The preserve is particularly stunning in early spring when colorful carpets of skunk cabbage and marsh marigold cover the wetlands. The trails are marked with blue blazes on the trees and offer a natural surface with occasional boardwalks. The preserve is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, including Michigan lily, swamp saxifrage, and various songbirds during migration seasons. The preserve is situated on a flat, sandy lake plain formed by Glacial Lake Chicago and contains an important wetland complex that protects water quality in the Grand River. The property was once owned by Ruth Skwarek, who lived on the land for most of her life and wanted to ensure it would never be developed. The Land Conservancy of West Michigan worked with Ruth to preserve the property through her will, and the preserve was named in honor of her mother, Minnie.