“A Walk in the Park” is an ongoing series by State Journal photographer Nick King, who plans to explore Lansing-area parks for an hour at a time. If you have a suggestion for a park he should visit, email him at [email protected].
The Red Cedar Natural Area in Meridian Township is a wild park along the Red Cedar River.
Not to be confused with the park of the same name in East Lansing, the Red Cedar Natural Area at 1455 Oscoda Road in Okemos offers 140 acres of forest, nature trails and river access.
The park features a rugged, natural trail that stretches along the riverbank of the Red Cedar River. The trail is lined with natural, tall grass and offers views of the water. There are spots for fishing along the trail, but open spots are hard to find.
Be careful not to slip into the water as the path runs right along the edge of the raised river bank in some places.
There are also nature trails through the dense forest areas of the park. Deer, squirrels, rabbits, birds and other wildlife call this natural area home.
The land for the park was deeded to Meridian Township by the Eyde Company in 1996. Street parking is available along Oscoda Road. There are no restrooms on site. Dogs on leashes are welcome.
