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NATURE PRESERVES, TRAILS & PARKS

Kal-Haven Trail State Park
Encompassing 33 miles of former railroad bed that links the cities of South Haven and Kalamazoo, the scenic Kal-Haven Trail traverses forests, fields and 7 bridges. Open to all non-motorized bicycles, hiking, cross country skiing and snowmobiling when a 4-inch snow base is present.
Kalamazoo trailhead: 10th St | South Haven trailhead: Bailey St
Kesling Nature Preserve
The Kesling Nature Preserve is home to a rich diversity of plants and wildlife, with scenic views of the vast ravine that slices through the property. It is also a popular spot for bird-watching in the spring, when a dazzling display of wildflowers provides another compelling reason to visit.
Three Oaks Township, MI
269-324-1600
Outdoor Discovery Center
The Outdoor Discovery Center is a kid-friendly nature preserve focused on wildlife management, conservation, outdoor education and preservation. Programs include sensory nature walks, bird watching, fishing, archery, pond summer camps, snowshoeing, live birds of prey and wildlife studies. Visitors can walk the trails, visit the birds of prey and enjoy the outdoor picnic area.
4214 56th St, Holland, MI 49423 | 616-393-9453
OPERATING HOURS: Mon-Fri 9 am–5 pm | Sat 10 am– 4 pm | Sun 12–4 pm
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Trails open sunrise to sunset.
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Pets welcome (must be kept on 6=foot leash at all times)
Sarett Nature Center
Sarett is a non-profit organization situated on more than 1,000 acres along the Paw Paw River, boasting eight miles of trails, tree top walkway, live local animals, a playground and picnic area, nature center and butterfly house. Sarett's main focus is environmental education, with a wide range of kids' classes and programs on offer.
2300 Benton Center Rd, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 | 269-927-4832
BUILDING HOURS: Tues-Fri 9 am-5 pm | Sat 10 am-5 pm | Sun 1 pm-5 pm
ADMISSION: $3/nonmembers | free for ages 12 and under
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Trails open dawn to dusk daily
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No pets allowed
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Some trails can accommodate strollers
Fernwood Botanical Garden
With sprawling gardens and winding trails, Fernwood is a nature lover's paradise. It also boasts a full-service cafe, art gallery, garden shop and library. Year-round activities and amenities provide visitors with plenty of family-friendly options. Along with bird- and garden-themed backpack that can be checked out for self-guided explorations, a new preschoolers backpack contains pictures, magnifiers, books and other materials that encourage kids to explore their five senses.
13988 Range Line Rd, Niles, MI 49120
HOURS: 10 am-6 pm Tues-Sat | 12-6 pm Sun (May-Oct) & 10 am-5 pm Tues-Sat | 12-5 pm Sun (May-Oct)
ADMISSION: $9: adults | $7: seniors | $4: students (ages 5-17) | free: kids 4 and under & members
PETTING ZOOS/FARMS
Critter Barn
The Critter Barn is a small, family-run farm open to the public. Visitors can interact with rabbits, ducks, pot-bellied pics, cows, goats, sheep, donkeys, turkeys, ponies and more! Educational classes and volunteer opportunities are available for all ages.
9275 Adams St, Zeeland, MI 49464 | 616-748-1110
OPERATING HOURS
Mon-Fri 10 am-6 pm | Sat 10 am-4 pm | Closed Sun
Free admission (donations appreciated)
U-PICK FRUIT
Silver Beach | St. Joseph
Silver Beach is a picturesque spot to spend a sunny summer day, with a soft, sandy beach, dedicated swimming area, beach volleyball, fishing access, picnic area, concessions, playground, kayak/paddleboard rentals, outdoor showers and more. Stroll down the pier to the lighthouse, take a spin on the nearby carousel, splash in the Whirlpool Compass Fountain or head to the charming downtown area for lunch or shopping.
Facilities open May-Sept until dusk
Parking fee: $6/vehicle for Berrien County residents | $10/vehicle for non-residents
Warren Dunes | Sawyer, MI
Features three miles of shoreline and six miles of hiking trails, as well as a 260-foot-tall dune formation and sweeping Lake Michigan vistas. Open year-round. Modern and rustic campsites available, as well as three modern mini cabins.
12032 Red Arrow Highway
Sawyer, MI 49125
269-426-4013