Atherton Natural Area

Atherton Natural Area was donated in 2018 by David G. McConnell. This property is a mixture of shrubland, woodlands, and has frontage on the Looking Glass River. Atherton Natural area takes its name from the Atherton Creek that flows through this property. This property was formerly oak savanna and mixed conifer swamp and was used for grazing livestock in the past. The western side of the property shows evidence of disturbance from the construction of I-69.

What makes this preserve special?

The property contains numerous oaks and hickory and shrubland that is utilized by birds and mammals. This property protects portions of both the Atherton Drain and the Looking Glass River 

Scenes from Atherton Natural Area

Atherton.jpg
Atherton shrubs.jpg

Preserve Guidelines

Stay on trails.
This helps prevent erosion problems and protects delicate wildflowers and other plants from being trampled.

Take your trash with you when you leave.
As a non-profit with an extremely small staff, we are not able to maintain trash cans at our preserves.

Respect wildlife.
Please keep dogs on 6-foot long leashes at all times and do not allow them to chase wildlife. Even chipmunks deserve a break!

  • No motorized vehicles

  • No bikes or horses due to erosion issues

  • No camping or fires

  • No fireworks

  • No dumping

  • Do not collect, remove, or destroy plants

  • Do not bring alcohol or glass containers into the preserve

FAQs

  • No, Atherton is open to the public from January 1st to October 31st. Atherton is closed to the public from November 1st to December 31st to manage deer that harm the native plant community of the natural area.

  • Hunting is permitted on Atherton Natural Area by special permit only by MMLC

  • Parking is permitted along the narrow strip of land at the corner of South State Road and Lansing Road.