Welcome to the Howard Christensen Nature Center! We are located in Northern Kent County and nestled upon 135 acres of natural ecosystems, HCNC has become a refuge to a multitude of plants and wildlife. The Nature Center boasts a great diversity of habitats, a variety of trails to entice hikers and campers, and is home to a variety of community-based programs. Each year our facilities serve thousands of visitors with our children and adult programs, and our miles of walkable trails.

Our mission is to inspire appreciation and respect for the natural world, to increase awareness of environmental concerns, and encourage individuals to maintain Earth’s ecology.

Donate today to help us preserve 135 acres of Michigan forest, maintain our trail systems, and provide important community programming. We never turn anyone based on their ability to pay. Your continued support enables us to provide free access to our facility for those who can’t afford it.