Pine River Nature Center

Discover the area's natural heritage

The mission of the Pine River Nature Center is to promote the awareness, understanding and stewardship of the Blue Water Area's natural heritage. The center provides hands-on science education programming for schools correlated with the Michigan Curriculum Framework. It also offers outdoor recreation and environmental education opportunities for area residents.

The Pine River Nature Center has over three miles of trails open daily from dawn until dusk for public use. Occasional Scouting and public programs are also offered.

The nature center property covers 90 acres and includes mature hardwood forest, wetland and prairie habitats.

The meandering Pine River has cut deep ravines that afford dramatic views of the floodplain below.

During May and June, the forest floor is filled with a spectacular spring wildflower display that includes large-flowered trillium, mayapple and wild geranium.

The diverse habitats are home to a wide variety of wildlife, such as white-tailed deer and mink. More than 70 species of birds have been sighted on the property, including great blue heron, wood duck and warblers that only frequent the deep woods.

Dogs, horses, bikes and motorized vehicles are not permitted.

The nature center is owned and operated by the St. Clair County Regional Educational Service Agency.

Educational opportunities

The nature center's primary purpose is to provide educational oppportunities for local schools. Programs are offered free to St. Clair County schools. Schools outside the county are charged a fee of $2 per student. Full-day and half-day programs are available; please see our School Programs section to learn more.

The Pine River Nature Center is a nature preserve intended for educational purposes therefore, please help us maintain and protect the natural area.

For more information please contact:

Sarah Nelson, Operations Coordinator

Phone: (810) 364-5477

E-mail: prnc@sccresa.org

For Summer Nature Club details, check out the Public Events page.

Cover of self-guided trail booklet

Self-guided trail booklets
help make hikes more fun
and educational

The nature center now offers a self-guided trail booklet that will allow you to identify and learn about various flowers, birds, trees and shrubs as you tour the 90-acre property. The booklets will be available at the outdoor kiosk next to the main building by the end of March. Booklets are for borrowing only and must be returned after you have taken your hike so that everyone can enjoy and learn from them.

Download the self-guided trail booklet.

Spring 2010 Nature Notes