Nature Center

The Hudsonville Nature Center is located between the I-196 Freeway and New Holland Street in the southeast part of the city.  In addition to providing the city with its only nature area, it is anticipated to take on regional significance because of its rare combination of vegetation and landforms.  The Nature Center exhibits many of the landscape features found in Michigan at the time it was first settled 150 years ago.  Features include a mixed hardwood forest, sand prairie, mesic prairie, moraines, wetlands, and a flowing creek.

 Over 160 wildflower species have been identified in the Nature Center, some of which have received a protected status from the state.  Included among these are the trillium, yellow trout lily, fawn lily, and jack in the pulpit.

 A main feature of the Nature Center is a recreated native Michigan Prairie.  A six-acre section has been planted with native Michigan wildflowers and grasses.  This prairie is being maintained through the use of a burn management program.

The Michigan Department of Transportation has supported this prairie by making wildflower plantings in their I-196 right-of-way where it abuts the Nature Center.

The Nature Center has a wide variety of tree and bird species, including 72 tree species and 77 bird species that have been formally identified in the park.  The park also provides a habitat for wildlife including deer, rabbit, fox, raccoon, and other small wildlife.

The Nature Center features three miles of groomed woodchip trails, picnic areas, boardwalks, overlook decks, and scenic vistas.  The Nature Center offers an excellent opportunity for natural science education and general enjoyment of the outdoor environment

Click here for Nature Center Map