The 4,000-acre Oak Openings Preserve is situated between Whitehouse and Swanton and invites all outdoor enthusiasts to come and explore a unique ecosystem of alternating sand dunes and wetlands.

Here you can take advantage of over 50 miles of hiking trails, which will lead you though areas of great natural beauty that provide a home to many resident and migrating birds.

You can spend a night getting back to nature in the primitive campground or hire the Caretaker’s Cottage, which sleeps eight.

Cyclists can take advantage of the 5-mile paved All Purpose Trail (wheelchair accessible), which connects Mallard Lake and Evergreen Lake, and there are bridle trails for equestrians.

The Buehner Nature Center at Mallard Lake offers great wildlife viewing from the comfort of their special “Windows on Wildlife” indoor feature. Map

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