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Michigan dnr > wildlife viewing guide > southern lower peninsula >fernwood

91 Fernwood Botanical GardenSouthern Lower Peninsula
and Nature Preserve

wildlife viewing  |  directions and facility information

view of the lake  fall hikers
Photo: © Phil Seng; fall hikers, © Phil DeVore

 

 

 

walkway in the woods
Photo: © Phil Seng

Fernwood is dominated by moist soil hardwood forest leading down to the banks of the St. Joseph River. Four miles of hiking trails pass by numerous springs and seeps. This site also features botanical gardens and a prairie reconstruction.

Wildlife Viewing

High probability of viewing songbirds and small mammals at the nature center feeding station year-round. Bluebirds are plentiful in open areas during summer. The harmless and beneficial black rat snake (species of special concern in Michigan) is commonly seen throughout the property. Spring wildlflowers are outstanding from April through May, while the tallgrass prairie comes into full bloom by the end of August.

Queen of the Prairie - photo by WilleyYellow Ladies Slipper - photo by Willey






Queen of the Prairie
and Yellow Ladies slipper

Photos: © R. Willey

Visit the nature center to see the displays on local wildlife and to enjoy the bird feeding station.

Educational programs are offered year-round for school groups and the general public.

Call ahead for details.

MapDirections

From US-31 Bypass, take Walton Road Exit west to Range Line Road. Turn right (north) and travel 2 miles to Fernwood entrance on the left (west) side of the road.

Ownership: Fernwood Botanical Garden (269) 695-6491

Size: 105 acres

Closest Town: Buchanan

Weather and Driving Directions for Buchanan

Plan Your Trip with travel.michigan.org!

Prairie at the Nature Center
Photo: © Phil Seng

Facilities and Opportunities

RestroomsTrailsVisitor CenterRestaurantDrinking WaterEntry FeeBarrier Free

Restrooms – 3 public, 2 are wheelchair accessible
Trails – Four miles, easy to moderate. Ecology Trail has interpretive displays
Visitor center – Daylight Savings Time: Tuesday-Saturday 10-6, Sunday 12-6
Standard Time: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12-5
Observation deck - photo by Phil Seng
Photo: © Phil Seng
Fernwood is always closed Mondays
Restaurant – 12 noon to 3 p.m. daily
Drinking water – indoor fountains only
Entry fee –
Adults 20-64 $5
Seniors 65+ $4
Students 13-19 $3
Children 6-12 $2
Children 5 and under Free
Barrier free – Buildings and paved garden trail are wheelchair accessible.

Additional Information:
Fernwood Botanical Garden web site
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