Beckwith Nature Preserve
A quiet retreat with flat trails through pine and hardwood forest along Portage Creek.
2879 Morton Road (M-106), Stockbridge, MI
Get Directions
Note: The entrance to the fenced parking area is on the north side of Morton Road M-106, just east of downtown Stockbridge.
Get to Know Beckwith Preserve
Though the property now known as the Beckwith Nature Preserve was cleared in the 1830s to cultivate corn and raise cattle, farming was soon abandoned because its sandy soil proved unproductive. Dr. Sidney Beckwith and Harriet Beckwith purchased the land in 1948. They allowed the farm fields to evolve into meadows, and they planted the pine and spruce trees that now cover the landscape.
In 1999, the Beckwiths’ daughter, Frances Laird, and her husband, Campbell, donated the land to Legacy Land Conservancy in loving memory of her parents and Irene Beckwith Hunting.
This 30-acre preserve is home to a mature pine and spruce plantation, a small meadow, and an oak-hickory forest, and Portage Creek winds through the northwest corner. It is common to see deer and wild turkeys and to hear owls and pileated woodpeckers in this peaceful oasis. The trails connect to the Stockbridge Community Pathways trail system.
Trail Map
Take a screenshot or download a printable PDF of the map before your hike.
BOARDWALK EXPLORATION
A wooden boardwalk allows for easy exploration of the wetland.
FORT BUILDING IN THE FOREST
The open understory of the mature pine forest offers a great space for creative play.
The downed sticks and branches are perfect for constructing temporary forts and other
Earth art. Let your imagination run wild!
WOODLAND WONDERS
Stroll around the woodland loop and observe the diverse community of native tree species. Can you spot the white oak, black oak, black cherry, and American elm trees?
BRIDGE VIEW
Pause for a quiet moment and take in the view from the bridge spanning Portage Creek. See if you can find the high-water mark or where wildlife amble down to the creek for a drink.
Taking Care
Enjoy your time at the Preserve, but please be mindful of the plant, animal, and natural communities thriving in and around the land we have protected. The Preserve is open to the public from dawn to dusk.
Contact us if you are interested in visiting with groups of 12 or more, need to report an issue, or have a question.
What Can You Do at Beckwith Preserve?
- Hike
- Bird Watch
- Take Photos
- Study Nature
- Forage*
- Walk Pets on Leash
- Nature Play
*Foraging of common species of mushroom, fruits, berries, and nuts is allowed. Collecting protected species and commercially harvesting any species is not allowed. Learn more.
Help Protect Beckwith Preserve
- No Bicycles
- No Littering or Dumping
- No Smoking, Fires, or Fireworks
- Do Not Go Off the Trail
- No Camping
- No Motorized or Off-Road Vehicles (Mobility devices are allowed.)
- No Construction of Forts*, Benches, and Structures
- No Pets Off Leash (Bag and remove all waste.)
- Do Not Remove Native Plants, Animals, Rocks, or Fallen Wood
- No Hunting, Trapping, or Firearm Use
- No Placement of Memorials or Items From Outside the Preserve