Explore the beauty and ecological contribution of Southeast Michigan’s native ecosystems at Indian Spring Metropark’s Nature Center . A historical exhibit tracing the ecological communities from the glacial period to the present day is illustrated. Live reptiles and amphibians are on display for up-close viewing. Hands-on activities introduce you to the natural wonders of the Metropark. Self-guided nature trails begin at the center and lead to woods, wetlands, and tallgrass prairies. School and scout programs are available by appointment. Pets, bicycles and joggers are not allowed in the nature study area or on the trails. For more information contact the Nature Center at 248- 625-7280
The Huron River, lake waters, wide-open fields and flourishing woodlands are a welcoming, natural habitat for many birds, fish, mammals, amphibians and reptiles. Visit the nature center at Kensington Metropark to see live displays of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, box turtles and fish common to Southern Michigan waters. View an active bee hive or try hands-on activities related to the natural world. Self-guided nature trails begin at the nature center and extend into adjacent woods, fields and marshes. A variety of school curriculum and scout programs are available with a monthly schedule of programs open to the public. For more information, contact (248) 685-0603. Dogs, pets, bicycles, skiing and jogging are not allowed on nature trails.
Marshlands Museum and Nature Center
Explore the natural and cultural history of Southeastern Michigan at Marshlands Museum and Nature Center. Get up close to a 1,300-gallon aquarium showcasing regional fish species and the Marshland Symphony display which invites you to “play” a symphony of bird & frog calls. An impressive exhibit of old decoys, boats and other hunting artifacts call to mind the traditions of Downriver waterfowling. Our resident bald eagle, Luc, is on hand year-round to greet visitors and highlights the inhabitant population of these great birds. Continue your educational experience by exploring nature trails near the building, past dense hawthorn thickets and cattail marshes.
Interactive school and weekend family programs offer many, wonderful opportunities to get close to nature. Some current displays include examining live turtles, frogs and snakes, collecting aquatic critters and investigating them under a microscope, staring into the eyes of a wild sharp-shinned hawk, try your hand at decoy carving, travel back to the War of 1812, or make a cattail doll. School and group educational programs are available by appointment. Meeting room available for local organizations.
School season hours: 1 pm to 5 pm weekdays; 10 am to 5 pm weekends.
Summer hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily.
Phone 734-379-5020 or 800-477-3189.
Encounter the rich history and ecological contribution of the shore and wetlands of Lake St. Clair with a visit to Metro Beach Metropark’s nature center. The shoreline, woodlands, and marsh areas are teeming with wildlife. Visit the Nature Center to see live reptiles and amphibians on display. Discover exhibits on Lake St. Clair, the wetlands, wildlife, and use of the area by French Voyageurs or plan a group session on the Great Voyageur Canoe. Stop at the wildlife-viewing window to watch wildlife visiting the feeding stations. Hummingbirds and butterflies are just some of the animals that might be seen, along with other birds, squirrels or even an occasional deer. Park interpreters host nature walks and programs for families and the general public including summer cruises on the lake. Programs aligned with school curriculums, the Great Lakes Education Program, and scouts are also available. For more information, call (586) 463-4332.
Watch the turtles swim in a 700-gallon turtle tank or check out live snakes, frogs, toads, salamanders, and fish on display at Oakwoods Nature Center. Meet “Hawkeye,” the red-tailed hawk. Stop at the wildlife viewing room to watch birds at the birdfeeder. Follow five self-guided trails past mature woodlands, a scenic 3-acre pond, an ancient sandbar and butterfly garden. A nearby canoe access leads to a backwater trail for canoeists and kayakers. A variety of school curriculum and scout programs are offered. For more information, contact (734) 782-3956.
The Stony Creek, Reflection Pond, thick woodlands, tallgrass prairies, and wetlands are a welcoming, natural habitat for many birds, fish, mammals, amphibians and reptiles. Visit the nature center at Stony Creek Metropark to see live displays snakes, turtles and fish. Park interpreters host nature walks and interpretive programs including programs aboard a 34-foot Voyageur canoe.
For additional information, contact the Nature Center at 586-781-9113.
Click here for a map and directions to the Stony Creek Nature Center.