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

Check out the nature center's newsletter.

Click here for the current PRNC newsletter.

Birdhouses for sale

Handmade birdhouses now for sale at the nature center. Click here for price list.

Earth Fair planning is under way. Watch for updates. The fair will be held April 16 & 17.

For more information,

click here.