Nature and Environment

OCP is committed to restoring and managing our natural environment to preserve biodiversity, protect water and air quality, support robust populations of wildlife and connect people with high-quality experiences in nature by:

Expanding and managing diverse, high-quality natural communities, habitats and wildlife corridors including creating refuges and passage for plants and animals
Managing native tree canopy to sustain healthy forests in our parks, improve shade for wildlife and people and support climate resilience of our communities
Protecting water quality for aquatic organisms, surrounding wildlife, recreational users and downstream communities
Helping communities and residents expand the use of natural landscapes to support regional biodiversity and stormwater mitigation
Educating and communicating with the public about nature and encouraging environmentally sustainable practices

Recreating in our Natural Spaces and Nature Preserves

While out enjoying our Oakland County Parks and Nature Preserves, please help us steward these beautiful and important spaces. Oakland County is a proud Leave No Trace Community Member and encourages the public to practice these Leave No Trace Principles:

Plan Ahead and Prepare: Learn our park rules and read park maps before leaving the trailhead, prepare for weather and environmental conditions (mosquitoes, muddy trails, etc.)
Travel on Durable Surfaces: Please stay on designated park trails at all times for your safety and the integrity of our natural spaces
Dispose of Waste Properly: Always use pet waste bags, trash and recycling cans and bathroom facilities provided in convenient locations across our park system
Leave what you find: Please take pictures and memories of our natural spaces but don’t leave with flowers, seeds, mushrooms or other pieces of nature
Minimize Campfire Impacts: OCP only allows campfires within our existing campgrounds in designated areas. Campfires are not allowed anywhere else within the park system
Respect Wildlife: Don’t approach or feed wild animals and encourage pets to do the same
Be Considerate of Others: Keep our parks beautiful and serene for all visitors

Learn More

Questions or Concerns?

Please contact Jim Dunleavy, Manager - Operations at 248-858-0906 or dunleavyj@oaklandcountymi.gov.

Homeschool Program: Sugar Shack

Date:

03/12/2026 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Learn about the history of maple sugaring with our new sugar shack! From Native American legends and pioneer tools to modern techniques, you’ll learn how to turn sap into syrup (and eventually sugar) while trying your hand at tapping a maple tree. Homeschool sessions are adapted for two age groups: Ages 6-9 and ages 10-13. Cost is $10/child/session. Preregistration with payment is required by calling 248-858-0916 weekdays or register online. No on-site registration will be available. Sessions are designed as a drop-off program for youth. All students are welcome, including those from a traditional homeschool, pod or virtual learning setting. A release form must be completed with registration.

Return to full list >>