102 Maple
River State
Game Area 
wildlife viewing | directions and facility information
Photo: © Phil Seng
The Maple River State Game Area contains the largest
contiguous wetland complex in mid-Michigan. It primarily consists of
floodplain, lowlands, and marshes associated with the Maple River
corridor. The eastern end of the area has been divided into wildlife
management units. These units are easily accessed by US-27 and offer
prime wildlife viewing.
 Wildlife
Viewing
Wetlands and floodplains along the Maple River
are home to egrets and many other kinds of
wetland wildlife. Except for tropical rainforests,
wetlands are the most productive habitats
in the world. Photo: © Ray Rustem
Wetland-related wildlife may be viewed here year-round.
Spring waterfowl viewing is excellent, as thousands of ducks, geese, and
swans stop over in these wetlands on their annual migration to northern
breeding grounds. Viewing is best from March through May. Hike along the
dikes in Unit A just west of US-27 for a good look at beautiful wading
birds and their young. Bring binoculars for best viewing. Herons are
extremely plentiful throughout the area. Fair probability of seeing bald
eagles and osprey perched on dead snags in area wetlands. A wildlife observation
tower and barrier-free viewing blind located in Unit B provide wonderful
views of the floodplain/wetland complex. See the area map at the parking
lot on US-27 for more detail.
This area is open
to public hunting. Check with the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources for hunting seasons and
regulations.
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