20 Attractions to Explore Near Howard Christensen Nature Center

Long Lake Park is a beautiful destination for outdoor fun. With well-maintained hiking trails, a large lake for swimming and fishing, picnic facilities, and plenty of open space, it's the ideal spot for a family day out or a romantic evening. The park also boasts an impressive array of wildlife, including migratory birds and multiple species of fish. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while learning more about nature and local wildlife.

Whitefish Lake is the perfect destination for visitors looking to have an unforgettable time surrounded by nature. This picturesque lake boasts crystal clear waters and a sandy shoreline with plenty of opportunities to relax in its natural surroundings. Boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddling are activities that can be found here as well as numerous trails for hiking and biking. The area also offers rental cabins along the lakefront.

Hess Lake, offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake boasts crystal-clear water and ample opportunities for fishing and boating, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The surrounding area is also home to numerous campgrounds and vacation rentals, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

Nestled in the heart of Newaygo County, lies the serene and picturesque Brooks Lake. This hidden gem boasts crystal clear water perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. With its lush trees and peaceful surroundings, it's the ideal spot for a quiet weekend getaway or a family vacation. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a nature lover's paradise. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Brooks Lake has something for everyone.

Rockford Dam Overlook offers breathtaking views of the Grand River. Visitors have the chance to watch a captivating sunset over the horizon while taking in the incredible sights. The area itself is quite peaceful and tranquil, with plenty of room for exploration and reflection. Within walking distance you will also find historic buildings and monuments, steeped in local history. The dam itself is quite impressive, offering a glimpse of life on the river from an elevated vantage point.

Garden Club Park spanning 20 acres of land, it is well-known for its beautiful foliage and towering trees that can be admired from the winding park trails. There are multiple outdoor activities available at the park including basketball and tennis courts, a children's playground, and picnic areas. Visitors that prefer more tranquil activities can wander through the butterfly garden or along the pond meditation path. It's easy to spend an entire day marveling at this stunning park.

Wahlfield Park, is a great destination features trails and wide open areas for hiking and biking; a pond stocked with trout for fishing; and play areas for children. Sports enthusiasts can use nearby soccer fields and baseball diamonds. Visitors can also camp out beneath the stars from one of the park's 14 campsites or enjoy an outdoor picnic at one of the Pavilion shelters. Whether it be a day trip to take in nature's beauty or a weekend getaway with family and friends.

Rogue River Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day of outdoor fun. Set along the winding banks of the scenic Rogue River, visitors are able to take in the lush greens and blues of nature while fishing and strolling along trails. There are plenty of facilities located throughout the park including picnic shelters, playgrounds, restrooms, and grills. For those who prefer a more active experience, there is an off-leash area for dogs to run freely.

The Croton Dam Pond is a beautiful natural attraction that draws in visitors from all around. With its tranquil waters and stunning scenery, it's the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature. This man-made lake provides not only breathtaking views but also endless opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking. The dam itself also serves as an impressive engineering feat, able to hold back the impressive flow of the Muskegon River.

Pickerel Lake, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. With crystal clear waters and picturesque surroundings, it is the perfect destination for fishing, swimming, boating or just lounging on the beach. The lake is home to a variety of fish species including walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike, making it a dream spot for fishing enthusiasts. Surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, Pickerel Lake also offers great hiking trails and camping sites.

Hardy Dam Pond is a picturesque spot for outdoor enthusiasts to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area. This 3,400-acre pond is a man-made reservoir created by the Hardy Dam on the Muskegon River. Visitors can fish for walleye, northern pike, and bass, as well as enjoy water sports like boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The area is surrounded by lush forests, making it an ideal spot for camping and hiking.

Provin Trails, offer outdoor enthusiasts picturesque views and a huge variety of trails to explore. The trails have something for everyone from multi-purpose paths to off-road biking, equestrian and walking spaces. The large network of trails also cuts through large conservation areas, offering a peek into the local flora and fauna amidst serene landscapes. With over 25 miles of groomed trails available across multiple conservation areas, Provin Trails is a great spot for all.

Pickerel Lake Park is a truly remarkable place. Nestled among ten acres of natural beauty, the park borders over five miles of the winding Grand River. Visitors can experience nature by taking in vibrant wildflowers and thickly wooded forests along three miles of hiking trails looping around the lake. Well-maintained picnic and play areas create an idyllic setting for families and friends to spend time together in the outdoors.

Cannonsburg Ski Area is a popular mountain for winter activities. It has something for all ability levels, from beginner to advanced terrain. With evening lights on select trails and a snow-tubing hill, it’s also a popular spot for night skiing or snow tubing. It boasts 20 slopes with 2 terrain parks and 2 mini-parks plus 6 chair lifts that whisk visitors up the 300 foot vertical drop. From Freestyle Fridays to monthly Railslides, stop by on any given day to participate in fun seasonal events.

Hardy Dam Pond is beloved for its activities and easy access for visitors of all ages. On the lake, fishing is a common pastime with plenty of bass, bluegill and crappie for the taking. Recreational boating can be enjoyed by kayak or electric motor boats. There are two boat launches available for use. A refreshing beach area means families can enjoy sunbathing or swimming on a hot summer’s day. A disc golf course provides added fun.

Huff Park is a vibrant outdoor destination marked by picturesque landscapes and adrenaline-packed outdoor activities. Located along the banks of the Grand River, this park is the ideal spot for sailing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming and camping. With plenty of trails available for walking and biking, visitors can explore deep into the 50 acres of lush forests within the park. Apart from its natural beauty, Huff Park also offers an array of events.

Townsend Park is a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of life while still being close enough to go visit Grand Rapids and enjoy a day shopping or dining downtown. This park is 81 acres of natural beauty that can be enjoyed year-round. Well-kept trails weave around forested creeks, open meadows, historic remains of an old cemetery, and two lovely ponds. Whether spending the day hiking or fishing, there are plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy.

Nestled in the charming county of Newaygo, Michigan lies the tranquil Newaygo State Park. The park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with a picturesque lake, winding river and serene wooded trails. Whether you're looking for a challenging hiking adventure or a peaceful day of fishing, Newaygo State Park has it all. Picnic areas and playgrounds are also available for family fun while RV camping and rustic cabin rentals offer overnight accommodations.

Richmond Park located near several rivers, the park features walking and bike trails through its 630 acres of woodlands, wetlands and meadows. Visitors can hike or bike around and take in the wildlife - from deer to birds - deer watching is popular. There are flying disc golf courses, a playground for younger children, and ball fields. With picnic areas plus pavilions for larger gatherings and potluck-style meals, the park has something for everyone who appreciates outdoor recreation.

The Blandford Nature Center is a hidden gem devoted to conservation and environmental education. Established in 1955 as the first urban nature center in Michigan, Blandford invites visitors to explore and appreciate 355 acres of forest, fields, wetlands and ponds. With a team of helpful staff and knowledgeable volunteers, Blandford offers activities such as hiking and fishing for all ages. There are also classes about nature-related topics and events such as guided hikes for bird-watching.