Find refuge in the sights, sounds and harmony of Nature. Join family and friends in an outdoor experience. At the
DRAYTON PLAINS NATURE CENTER

The Drayton Plains Nature Center's 137 acres, and expanse of nearly 1 mile in length, exhibits our Earth's finest treasure - Nature. The Membership is dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural world, for enjoyment and education in our community. The reserve is open daily to hikers and nature lovers, free of charge.

The Nature Center is born . . .
where the Clinton River cuts a double channel as it meanders under Hatchery Road toward Lake St. Clair, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources established an 82 acre fish hatchery in 1904. When the project was slated for abandonment, a group of concerned citizens purchased the property, and later 55 adjoining acres, for the purposes of protecting the habitat and all its living things.

In 1967 the Drayton Plains Nature Center opened its doors as a privately owned, non-profit Center dedicated to protect, preserve, educate and be enjoyed by its members and friends.

Today, the DNR again uses ponds to rear walleye and other fish for their lake and stream restocking program. The former hatchery building is now the Interpretive Center.

Learn . . .

with approximately 6 km of designated trails which have been routed around ponds, through woodlands and meadows, with interpretive signs to aid in your enjoyment. The Interpretive Center houses displays of specimens in their natural habitat, a gift shop with nature oriented items and bird seed for hands-on experience. The Interpretive Center is open Saturday, Sunday and weekdays - hours may vary - please call for specific details.

Enjoy . . .

• Historic Clinton River
• Several Wildlife Ponds
• Approx. 6 km of trails
• Interpretive Studies Building
• Gift Shop
• Pioneer Era Log Cabin
• Affordable Year-Round Programs
• Special Events

If you would like more information about Waterford Township parks, please visit www.twp.waterford.mi.us/parksandrec

NEW! Events: Current and Past

Contact Friends of the Nature Center at 248-618-3070
E-mail us at info@dpnaturecenter.org
Drayton Plains Nature Center | 2125 Denby | Waterford, MI 48329
Copyright © 2008-2011 All Rights Reserved.

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Photography courtesy of Beth Sayles, Sayles Studio 248-674-0413