Location Details
In order to better protect the biodiversity of the sanctuary, including the diversity of wildflowers, songbirds, reptiles, amphibians, and other species, the ability of the forest to regenerate and remain healthy, and to protect the quality and diversity of the wetlands, Michigan Nature Association will again be implementing the deer management program at Timberland Swamp Nature Sanctuary during the fall and winter of 2024. The program has been planned with the safety of sanctuary users, neighbors, adjoining parks, and wildlife inhabitants in mind. The program is being conducted under a deer management agreement with a team of sportsmen experienced in sharpshooting white-tailed deer within highly developed portions of Southeast Michigan. **Note that this notice is not an invitation for open public hunting of white-tailed deer within the sanctuary.**
Please note. The sanctuary will be closed to visitors, Wednesday through Friday between October 9, 2024 and January 31, 2025.
Timberland Swamp Nature Sanctuary is the Michigan Nature Association’s largest sanctuary in southeast Michigan. Carved out by retreating glaciers roughly 13,000 years ago, the current basin is the headwater for the Huron, Shiawassee, and Clinton Rivers.
Known as Huron Swamp on topographical maps, this 245-acre area has remained largely undisturbed since the surrounding land was farmed in the early 19th century. From the mid-1800s until the MNA’s acquisition, the swamp provided timber for local settlers and farmers, with former logging trails still evident into the early 1990s. The sanctuary is adjacent to Indian Springs Metropark, and together they protect more than 2,000 acres of sensitive habitat and green space.
Visitors can get a firsthand look at the hardwood swamp and second-growth hardwood forest on the two-mile loop trail. The path is often swampy and wet, so it’s recommended to bring proper footwear and stay on the trail. Despite recent impacts to the understory due to a high deer population, numerous wildflowers, including trillium, maiden-hair fern, and wild geranium are present. Acadian flycatcher, scarlet tanager, and red-eyed vireo are found throughout the swamp in the spring and summer.
The habitats of swamp and forest provide an ideal environment for birds, mammals, and amphibians. The great blue heron, great horned owls, and several species of hawks call the canopy of Timberland Swamp home. Raccoons, muskrats, and opossum are several of the mammals present.
With its diverse habitat and incredible beauty, visitors will get a true glimpse into the past when they visit Timberland Swamp.
Planning Your Visit:
From late April to late May, wildflowers of many species are scattered throughout the sanctuary against a background of spring beautifes and large white trillium. Visitors in October are treated to a wonderland of fall color, perfect for hiking.
How to Get There:
Take I-75 1.5 miles west of Clarkston to the Dixie Highway exit (#93) and turn south onto Dixie Highway. Turn right (southwest) onto White Lake Road, then make another right (west) onto Andersonville Road. Continue on Andersonville Road until you reach Ware Road. Turn left (south) onto Ware Road and park in the lot near the end of Ware Road.
For additional information, contact the MNA office at (866) 223-2231.
View the Sanctuary Fact Sheet
Timberland Swamp Nature Sanctuary Fact Sheet.pdf