A 212-Acre Treasure Hiding in Our Own Backyard |
Discover Woollam Nature Preserve and its October 24 fall color hike |
Here's a little challenge for this weekend.
What if I told you there's a 212-acre nature preserve in the Kalamazoo area, complete with six miles of hiking trails, lake views, and a Nature Center — and you might not even know it exists?
Meet the Arthur E. & Mildred H. Woollam Nature Preserve in Texas Township.
Located at 6278 Texas Drive, this relatively new county park opened in 2024 on the former Rota-Kiwan Boy Scout Camp property.
The preserve borders Bass Lake and offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy Southwest Michigan's natural beauty without driving halfway across the state.
And the timing couldn't be better.
This Saturday, October 24, Kalamazoo County Parks is hosting a Fall Color Hike, complete with a fall-themed scavenger hunt and free admission for the day.
That's right. FREE!
Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a family outing, or simply an excuse to get outside before winter arrives, this might be just the ticket.
The preserve also offers shoreline fishing, kayak rentals, and other recreational opportunities, although availability varies by season.
One of the things I love about Southwest Michigan is that we sometimes overlook what's practically in our own backyard.
We spend time planning trips to distant destinations while places like this are waiting just down the road.
So grab a jacket, put on some comfortable shoes, and enjoy a little autumn scenery.
And if you've already visited Woollam Nature Preserve, we'd love to hear what you thought!
Illustrative image: Photo by SAIF SIDDIQUE on Pexels |
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This is awesome! Always looking for new spots close by to walk the dog. Thanks for the heads up about the park and scavenger hunt. Hoping it won't be too crowded, but guess that's how you know it's a good spot.
Drew MartinezI was there last weekend with my dog, and it wasn't too busy at all. Even if there's a crowd for the scavenger hunt, the trails are long enough that it doesn't feel packed.
Kayak rentals sound fun, does anyone know if you have to reserve ahead of time or just show up? My grandkids would love a little fishing too. Free admission this Saturday is such a nice touch!
Never heard of Woollam before but now I want to check it out! Six miles of trails sounds perfect for a crisp fall walk. Hoping those color hikes have plenty of maples. Who else is bringing hot cider to the scavenger hunt?