Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
The Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center is located in the city of Shelby Township in Michigan.
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Summary
This nature center provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn about the natural history and environment of Michigan. There are many reasons to visit the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, including the various educational programs, live animal exhibits, and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the different ecosystems of Michigan.
One of the main draws of the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center is its extensive network of trails that are open year-round. These trails offer visitors a chance to explore the surrounding area and see some of the local flora and fauna. In addition to the trails, the nature center also has a number of interactive exhibits and displays that are designed to teach visitors about the natural history and environment of Michigan.
Some specific points of interest at the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center include the live animal exhibits, the bird observation area, and the butterfly garden. The live animal exhibits include various reptiles, amphibians, and mammals that are native to Michigan. The bird observation area provides visitors with an opportunity to view a wide variety of bird species that are native to the area. The butterfly garden is a beautiful and serene area where visitors can observe various species of butterflies and learn about their life cycles.
Interesting facts about the area include that the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center was originally built in the early 1970s as a way to preserve and promote the natural resources of Michigan. Today, it remains a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the nature center is home to over 50 different species of birds, as well as various mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
The best time of year to visit the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center varies depending on the interests of the visitor. Spring and summer are a great time to explore the trails and observe the various plant and animal species that are abundant during these seasons. Fall is also a popular time to visit due to the beautiful fall foliage that can be seen throughout the area. Finally, winter provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the nature center in a unique way, as the trails are transformed into a winter wonderland that is perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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