Hours
Tuesday – Saturday: 10am – 4pm (Gear due back by 5:30 pm)
Sunday: 12 noon – 4pm (Gear due back by 5:30 pm)
Directions
From US 31, travel west on Croswell Street to West Olive Road. Turn south on West Olive Road and travel a 1/2 mile to the entrance on the west side.
The Nature Center, located within Hemlock Crossing Park, has exhibits, a wildlife den with critters and activities, a viewing area where you can watch birds and animals at the feeders, and a gift shop. The center also hosts a variety of educational programs for schools, special groups and the public.
Nature Programs
Guided nature and recreational programs are offered every season. Click here to see the schedule and get registered.
Our Naturalist Guides have developed some online programming for you to enjoy from home! Click here to take a virtual walk with a naturalist or learn more about wildlife that is native to West Michigan.
Snowshoeing
Hemlock Crossing offers snowshoe rentals for adults and children (4+) at the Nature Center.
Guided treks are available throughout the winter; take a look at our program calendar for dates. Visitors are invited to warm up in front of a fire in the Great Room after their snowy outing! Contact the Nature Center at the phone number above to inquire about a group or school outing.
Reserving the Nature Center
Please call the Nature Center at (616) 786-4847 to schedule a visit, inquire about availability, and make your reservation. To rent other facilities within the parks, please visit Rental Facilities.
School Programs
Looking for a memorable, educational outdoor experience for your pre-k through high-school students? Look no further than the Nature Center. Our school programs enhance your students’ learning with experiences that cannot be duplicated in a classroom. The educational field trips are designed to meet your students at the appropriate cognitive level and can even be adapted to incorporate the subject matter you are currently studying. Year-round programs are available. If distance is an issue, there is bound to be a park near you where we can accommodate your class. Contact us today.
Birthday Parties
Celebrate your special day at the Ottawa County Parks Nature Center!
The Nature Center offers guided, nature-based birthday party packages for up to 15 children, ages 5-12 years old at Hemlock Crossing County Park. Learn more here.
-
Meeting/Venue Info
-
Number of Meeting Rooms: 2
-
Payments Accepted
-
Cost(s)
No entry fees. Private event rental fees apply. -
Amenities
Exhibits Wildlife Den Wildlife Viewing Area Gift Shop School Programs Public Events On-site Naturalist Snowshoe Rentals -
Travel time from downtown Grand Haven
18 Minutes
