Nature and Environmental Education Centers

See MI DNR list of Michigan Nature Centers for links to websites and a map of greenspaces

Nature Sanctuaries and Preserves

The MNA protects over 180 sanctuaries throughout the state. An interactive map of visitable sanctuaries can be found here.

Walking trails

Find your local land conservancy

Visit Heart of the Lakes Directory to find a conservancy based on location, or browse the list below

"Our mission is to conserve, sustain, and connect natural areas, lands, and waters that make the places we live special." Serving Lapeer, Genessee, Oakland, Macomb, and St. Clair Counties

"The Thumb Land Conservancy was formed in 2008 to provide an organization dedicated to filling the gap of nature preservation in Michigan's Thumb."

"Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy (SMLC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and qualified conservation organization dedicated to conserving and managing wildlife habitat in order to foster healthy ecosystems, protect air and water quality, and provide scenic enjoyment."

"Southwest Michigan land Conservancy is a local nonprofit conservation organization that works with people in the community to improve habitat, protect water quality, support biodiversity, connect people with nature, and help families conserve the land they love."

"The mission of Mid-Michigan Land Conservancy (MMLC) is to protect natural, scenic, recreational, and agricultural lands and their natural diversity in mid-Michigan so rural landscapes are preserved."

"The Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy protects land forever and provides stewardship assistance all over the Saginaw Bay Watershed."

"HeadWaters Land Conservancy strives to protect and restore land across 11 counties in northeastern Michigan: Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Roscommon, Presque Isle, Ogemaw, Oscoda, and Otsego."

"Protecting significant natural, scenic and farm lands - and advancing stewardship - now and for future generations."

"The Cadillac Area Land Conservancy protects significant natural, scenic, and farm lands for current and future generations and fosters an appreciation for the environment in Missaukee, Osceola, Wexford, and northern Lake and Mason counties."

"The Michigan Karst Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting awareness and preservation of unique karst features in Michigan."

"The Chippewa Watershed Conservancy’s mission is to protect and restore Central Michigan’s land, water, and wildlife resources to improve the quality of life for all."

"We strive to have places in nature that inspire connections and communities, serve as a healing and educational space, and allow all ages and abilities access to nature - now and for future generations to come."

"Our mission is to protect the natural diversity and beauty of northern Michigan by preserving significant land and scenic areas, and fostering appreciation and understanding of the environment."

"Our Mission Statement, crafted over 30 years ago by Founders Ed and Bobbie Collins and our first Board of Directors, has stood the test of time. Our vision today is their vision: the Leelanau Peninsula undiminished, faithfully stewarded and cherished by all, for the generations to come."

"Our mission is simple: to acquire Natural Areas to protect native habitats and wildlife, and provide public access for the benefit of residents, visitors, and our tourism-based economy."

"The Keweenaw Land Trust is a community partner protecting land, water, and quality of life through conservation, stewardship and education."

"At the Land Conservancy of West Michigan, we work to keep nature nearby and help people protect, enjoy, and care for natural land in West Michigan."

Parks and Refuges

Over 100 parks and recreation areas throughout the state

A 10,000 acre sanctuary that is vital for migratory birds and the Saginaw Bay watershed. 

Walking trails and wildlife drive

"For 40 years, Whitefish Point Bird Observatory has been monitoring and documenting the migration of tens of thousands of birds that funnel to the Point every Spring and Fall."

Hawk deck and waterbird shack

"The Michigan State Bird Observatory (MSBO) is an organization that bands birds at two locations, the Burke Lake Banding Station (BULA) and the Corey Marsh Ecological Research Station (Corey Marsh or CMERC). All are welcome to come and observe how we capture and band birds."