Staycation in Nature: 40+ Places To Explore In Southeast Michigan {And Beyond} This Spring

There’s no denying it — nature is medicine for kids. Besides the opportunity for fresh air and a sensory-rich environment, nature also helps kid’s imaginations thrive and helps promote exercise. With spring’s arrival, we no longer have the excuse for cold weather — it’s time to get outside and explore!

In Michigan, spring is also the perfect time to talk about the importance of our ecosystem with our children. The Michigan Wildlife Council is an awesome resource that exists to educate the public about the importance of conservation and wildlife management, as well as the direct impact fishing and hunting have on Michigan’s wildlife and natural resources. Maintaining our state’s rich history with conservation is something we must discuss with our children and grandchildren so our state can enjoy it for generations to come.

We have so many gorgeous nature-filled spots in southeast Michigan that make for the perfect staycation if you find your family craving an adventure. I’ve outlined some of my favorite spots to enjoy this spring below. Also, don’t forget about the many story walk trails, geocaching, our Michigan State Parks, which are free with a recreation passport or Michigan Activity Pass, and the amazing Metroparks we have too!

40+ Places To Explore In Southeast Michigan This Spring

Pack a picnic and your rain boots and have fun exploring!

GENESEE COUNTY

• Check out birds, maple syrup, and a treehouse at For-Mar Nature Preserve in Burton
• Observe nature and bird watch along the 1.6-mile Black Creek Nature Trail in Davison
• Check out Stepping Stones Falls in Flint and walk the woodsy 1.25 mile paved path

INGHAM COUNTY

• Hike around the beautiful trails around the Harris Nature Center in Okemos
• Check out animals and walk the paths of Potter Park Zoo in Lansing
• Explore The Ledges of Grand Ledge {just outside of Lansing}
• Take a walk in the woods at Woldumar Nature Center in Lansing
• Bird watch at Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg
• Walk the trails and look for maple syrup taps at Fenner Nature Center in Lansing

LIVINGSTON COUNTY

• Hike, bike, and explore Lakeland Trails State Park in Pinckney
• Kick a soccer ball around and play at Genoa Township Park, Fields and Trail
• Visit the Howell Nature Center to zipline or check out animals native to Michigan
• Go for a trail ride on horseback at Brighton Rec Stable
• Check out sculptures and poetry at Oaken Transformations in Brighton {open weekdays only}
• Have fun playing at the Brighton Mill Pond and Imagination Station Playground
• Bike and play at Hartland Settlers Park
• Hike the trails and sand dunes surrounding Spring Mill Pond at Island Lake in Brighton

MACOMB COUNTY

• Visit the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center in Shelby Township
• Hike, bike, or explore the Macomb Orchard Trail, which runs from Shelby Township to Richmond
• Play disc golf or hike the trails around Stony Creek Metropark in Shelby Township
• Walk and play at the playground at George George Memorial Park in Clinton Township
• Visit the nature center at Lake St. Clair Metropark in Harrison Township
• Hike on the Clinton River Trail, which extends to Oakland County

OAKLAND COUNTY

• Hike, ride a bike or a horse along the Paint Creek Trail in the Rochester area
• Admire nature at Friendship Woods & Nature Center in Madison Heights
• Climb boulders and walk the trail at Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve in Southfield
• Explore the nature center and trails at Heritage Park in Farmington Hills
• Go park hopping in Birmingham
• Feed the birds at Kensington {the Wildwing Trail is my personal favorite!}

WASHTENAW COUNTY

• Stroll around and pet animals at The Petting Farm at Domino’s Farms in Ann Arbor
• Rent a canoe for a spring ride or play at the sweet playgrounds at Gallup Park in Ann Arbor {canoe rental opens April 17}
• Check out the adorable farm themed playground at County Farm Park in Ann Arbor
• Take a nature walk and see creatures at Leslie Science and Nature Center  or The Creature Conservancy in Ann Arbor

WAYNE COUNTY

• Hike the trails and play on the cool playgrounds around Belle Isle in Detroit
• Visit Maybury State Park for trails, a riding stable and farm in Northville
• Check out the bike pump track in Hines Park in Westland
• Play at the adorable McClumpha Park in Plymouth
• Visit the animals at Heritage Park Petting Farm in Taylor

Where are your favorite spots to head during spring?