Cherry Hill Nature Preserve
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Cherry Hill Nature Preserve is a beautiful natural area located in Washtenaw County, Michigan.
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Summary
The preserve is a 123-acre site that offers visitors a chance to explore a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and prairies. There are many good reasons to visit Cherry Hill Nature Preserve, including its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere.
One of the main points of interest at the preserve is the Cherry Hill farmhouse, which dates back to the 1800s and has been restored to its original condition. Visitors can explore the farmhouse and learn about the history of the area. There are also several hiking trails that wind through the preserve, offering visitors a chance to see a variety of plants and animals.
Another interesting feature of Cherry Hill Nature Preserve is the presence of several rare and endangered species. These include the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake, the Eastern Box Turtle, and the Hine's Emerald Dragonfly. Visitors are encouraged to respect these species and avoid disturbing them.
The best time of year to visit Cherry Hill Nature Preserve depends on what you want to see. Spring and summer are great times to see wildflowers and migratory birds, while fall is a beautiful time to see the changing leaves. Winter is also a good time to visit, as the preserve offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Overall, Cherry Hill Nature Preserve is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who loves nature and wants to explore the beauty of Michigan's natural landscapes. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings, the preserve has something for everyone.
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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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