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Calvin University

Ecosystem Preserve and Native Gardens

The Calvin Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens is a one-of-a-kind oasis in the city of Grand Rapids.

The preserve’s 100+ acres of native plants and natural habitats offer boundless opportunities to explore and connect with nature. Come enjoy wandering our trails, enroll in a class or educational program, or just sit and relax.

This incredible resource is open to all who wish to join us as we conserve, restore, protect, and appreciate the wonder of creation.

Explore the Preserve

Native Gardens

Native Gardens

The Venema Plaza and Gardens together are West Michigan’s largest public native gardens.

Learn more
A doe and several fawns graze in the woods in the Calvin ecosystem preserve.

Natural Communities

These natural communities illuminate what's unique about specific corners of the Preserve.

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A group of Calvin students walking on a trail in the woods, with the leaves changing yellow in the fall.

Walking Trails

Over a mile of trails are available for wandering and discovering flora and fauna typical of West Michigan.

Learn more
Children and instructors stand on a dock overlooking a pond, pointing to fish.

Educational Programs

PreK-12 Educator Partnerships

Visit us or we'll come to you! Our educational themes include landscape history, biodiversity, natives and invasives, watersheds, and sustainability.

Camps, Workshops, and Activities

Take advantage of programs and activities throughout the year for kids and adults of all ages.

Upcoming Events

Volunteer and Support

Help us protect vital habitats! You can join a volunteer workday as an individual or a group, or make a financial gift to sustain our educational programs.

Every hour and every dollar makes a difference!

Learn how to get involved

Two students kneel on a trail while drilling boards together to line the trail.
A professor and two biology students study ecology in the Calvin Ecosystem Preserve.

Research at the Preserve

We are dedicated to protecting and caring for our lands through restoration, field research, education, and community engagement. 

Read about our land management activities and learn how to get involved with research. 

Research at the Preserve

The Bunker Interpretive Center with colorful banners hanging from the ceiling and posters on the walls depciting local flora and fauna.

Plan your visit

1750 East Beltline Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546-5649
(616) 526-7600
preserve@calvin.edu

Walking trails open 7 a.m.–dusk, except some holidays.

Download a map

Reserve the Bunker Interpretive Center

Reserve the Flat Iron Lake Preserve

 

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