TOP 10 Nature walks for families in Michigan

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.

Molly's Beach Walk is a charming beachfront restaurant located at 4514 Lake Street in Bridgman, Michigan. Offering stunning views of Lake Michigan, this cozy establishment specializes in delicious seafood dishes, refreshing cocktails, and casual beachside dining. With a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service, Molly's Beach Walk is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with family and friends while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Come visit us for a taste of summer by the water's edge!

Howard Christensen Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 16190 Red Pine Drive Northwest in Kent City, Michigan, United States. Nestled upon 135 acres of natural ecosystems, the Nature Center serves as a refuge for a variety of plants and wildlife. With diverse habitats, numerous trails for hiking and camping, and community-based programs, Howard Christensen Nature Center offers something for everyone to enjoy. Our mission is to inspire appreciation and respect for the natural world, increase awareness of environmental concerns, and encourage individuals to maintain Earth's ecology. Your support through donations helps us preserve the forest, maintain our trail systems, and provide important community programming. We ensure that everyone has access to our facility, regardless of their ability to pay.

Rivergate Family Campground is a serene retreat nestled in Hastings Charter Township, Michigan. Situated at 2514 South Charlton Park Road, this charming campground offers a peaceful escape for families looking to reconnect with nature. With spacious campsites and cozy lodging options, Rivergate Family Campground provides a comfortable and relaxing environment for guests to unwind and recharge. The park features scenic walking trails, a playground for children, and a beautiful riverfront setting, perfect for fishing and kayaking. Whether you're looking to spend quality time with loved ones or simply enjoy the great outdoors, Rivergate Family Campground is the ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

Family Day Park is a charming and picturesque park located in Bellaire, Michigan, United States. This popular tourist attraction is the perfect destination for families looking for a fun and relaxing day out in nature. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, Family Day Park offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to have a leisurely stroll, play some outdoor games, or simply relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings, this park is the ideal spot for a day of quality time with your loved ones. Come and create lasting memories at Family Day Park!

Stage Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 6685 Coolidge Highway in Troy, Michigan. This natural oasis offers visitors a chance to explore and connect with the great outdoors. With miles of scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and educational programs, Stage Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in a peaceful setting, this park has something for everyone. Come experience the beauty and tranquility of Stage Nature Center today!

Woodland Hills Nature Park is a picturesque outdoor destination located at 26655 Farmington Road in Farmington Hills, Michigan. This stunning park offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with walking trails, lush greenery, and peaceful surroundings. A popular tourist attraction, Woodland Hills Nature Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature, this park is sure to provide a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Mason Nature Area is a peaceful and picturesque park located at 500 Franklin Street in Houghton, Michigan, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with winding trails, lush greenery, and stunning views. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply relax and unwind, Mason Nature Area provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

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.

Round Lake Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 3264 Powell Road in Harbor Springs, Michigan, United States. Formerly known as the Little Traverse Bay Golf Club, this beautiful property was transformed into a nature preserve in early 2020. The goal of the preserve is to protect the natural diversity and beauty of northern Michigan by preserving significant land and scenic areas, while also fostering appreciation and understanding of the environment. Thanks to the generous support of the Offield Family Foundation, most of the purchase price was covered, allowing the Little Traverse Conservancy to acquire the property and ensure its long-term protection. Visitors to Round Lake Nature Preserve can now enjoy the peaceful surroundings, explore the diverse ecosystems, and appreciate the natural beauty of this special place. Whether you're a nature lover, a hiker, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Round Lake Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination in Harbor Springs.

Waldron Fen Nature Preserve, located on Miller Road in Alanson, Michigan, United States, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction dedicated to preserving the natural diversity and beauty of northern Michigan. Formerly known as the Little Traverse Bay Golf Club, this property was an active golf course until 2019 when it was purchased by an investor who then agreed to sell it to Little Traverse Conservancy for long-term protection. Thanks to the Offield Family Foundation, most of the purchase price was provided to ensure the preservation of this scenic area. Visitors can now explore the stunning landscapes and appreciate the environment at Waldron Fen Nature Preserve.

The Winchester Family Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 2488 Lake 26 Road in Charlevoix, Michigan, United States. This peaceful and serene preserve offers visitors the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views, the Winchester Family Nature Preserve is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in nature, this park has something for everyone. Come visit and experience the beauty of the Winchester Family Nature Preserve for yourself.

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.

Betsie Dunes Nature Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located in Frankfort, Michigan, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to explore the beautiful dunes and pristine beaches that make up the preserve. With its diverse wildlife, breathtaking views, and peaceful atmosphere, Betsie Dunes Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to hike, bird watch, or simply relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the wonders of Betsie Dunes Nature Preserve for yourself.

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.

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.

Medenbrook Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located on Saffron Road in Honor, Michigan, United States. This nature preserve offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors, with lush greenery, peaceful walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the local flora and fauna, Medenbrook Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan!

The Oliver Family Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 5400 West 30 1/4 Road in Harrietta, Michigan, United States. This tranquil oasis offers visitors the chance to explore and connect with nature through its lush forests, meandering trails, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking to go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply unwind in the great outdoors, the Oliver Family Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and experience the beauty and serenity of this stunning natural gem in the heart of Michigan.

Magoon Creek Natural Area is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts in Manistee, Michigan. This large recreation area offers hiking and biking trails, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the surroundings. The park is an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon picnic on the quiet beaches. With numerous picnic tables and covered pavilions situated on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the dunes to the south and the Manistee North Pier Lighthouse to the north. Whether you enjoy biking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, Magoon Creek has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to scoop up beach glass and rock finds at this enchanting park by the lake.

The McMullen Family Conservation Center is a serene park located at 2846 North Three Mile Road in Traverse City, Michigan. This institution is dedicated to the preservation and protection of the natural environment, offering visitors a peaceful retreat to connect with nature. With beautiful walking trails, educational exhibits, and a commitment to conservation, the McMullen Family Conservation Center is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Come explore and experience the beauty of Michigan's wildlife and landscapes at this wonderful park.

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.

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.

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.

Ensley Township Nature Preserve is a serene park and tourist attraction located at 6985 136th Street in Sand Lake, Michigan, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, with scenic walking trails, lush vegetation, and an abundance of wildlife. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful stroll through nature, go birdwatching, or simply relax and take in the surroundings, Ensley Township Nature Preserve is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Plan your visit today and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Michigan.

Rosy Mound Natural Area is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located at 13925 Lakeshore Avenue in Grand Haven, Michigan, United States. This stunning natural area offers visitors the chance to explore sandy beaches, towering dunes, lush forests, and scenic overlooks. With miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, Rosy Mound Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll along the Lake Michigan shoreline or a challenging hike up the dunes, this hidden gem offers something for everyone to enjoy.

East Paris Nature Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 5995 East Paris Avenue Southeast in Kentwood, Michigan. This tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore and connect with nature in a beautiful setting. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and diverse wildlife, East Paris Nature Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely walk, birdwatch, or simply unwind in a peaceful environment, this park has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of East Paris Nature Park during your visit to Kentwood.

The Jens Jensen Nature Preserve is a serene park and popular tourist attraction located at V L Parkway in Sawyer, Michigan, United States. This beautiful preserve is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the area and providing visitors with a peaceful retreat in nature. With winding trails, lush greenery, and scenic views, the Jens Jensen Nature Preserve offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking to hike, bird watch, or simply relax in a tranquil setting, this preserve is the ideal destination for a day of outdoor exploration and relaxation.

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.