Explore: Seven Ponds Nature Center in Dryden, MI
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Sept. 18, 2025)
Dryden, MI – In Lapeer County there’s a small town called Dryden that is home of a beautiful sanctuary and education center called Seven Ponds Nature Center. This preserve of nearly 500 acres includes multiple types of environments as well as an educational building, and an area for kids to play that focuses on nature.
I recently went out to explore this amazing space, hiking through woodlands, wetlands, fields, and a stunning natural prairie, all of which are accentuated by beautiful ponds throughout the property.
There are observation decks in several locations, plus a stand-out A-frame bridge that spans the channel between Treetop Pond and Little Pond. The bridge leads to Paul’s Woods, which includes the Miller Pond Boardwalk. This is a quarter mile wooden boardwalk with views of two ponds and an immersive look at a swampy forest, giant ferns, and towering cattails, plus views of two pristine ponds.
Across the road from the main entrance is the “North 80” which includes a tower view of Waterfowl Pond which is a popular spot for feathered friends in the warmer months of the year.
The nature center itself provides a wealth of things to see, and touch, and may things to learn. Here kids and adults can see animals up close – both living and preserved. They can also have a hands on look at parts of nature such as bones, turtle shells, furs, and even a beaver tail. My personal favorite specimen was that of a two-headed garter snake that’s been preserved in a jar for decades of visitors to marvel at.
Other features of the property include the Naturescape kids area, the butterfly garden, the herb garden, and the woodland wildflower area. Members are also welcome to use the kayak launch and to explore the connected lakes throughout the property.There is also a gift shop inside the center. It’s easy to spend a day exploring this serene oasis of nature.
Guests can pay a small fee to visit for the day, or sign up for a one-year membership. Seven Ponds also offers events and classes throughout the year.
Seven Ponds is located at 3854 Crawford Road in Dryden, MI, about 20 minutes north of Oxford. Learn more at https://sevenponds.org/
Check out places to Explore in Oakland County and beyond in the Oakland County Times Explore Index. We are currently looking for a sponsor for our Explore! series. If you’d like to help us do more stories like this, please contact editor@oc115.com for more info. Or you can make a donation to our website through PayPal.
