Harris Nature Center

Overview

The Harris Nature Center has recently been updated and is now one of the landmarks of the excellent Meridian Township Parks network, As noted by its name, it contains a nature center, pavilions, play areas, and along with the entire Meridian Riverfront Park, numerous trails. There are restrooms and picnic areas available. The launch itself is a wooden platform which may or may not be helpful for entering or exiting the river. The riverbank beside the wooden dock is also used. The launch is located approximately ____ from the roadway and ____ from the parking lot. As paddlers exit the Harris Nature Center, they pass beneath Van Atta Road as the river meanders downstream first passing Legg Park on river left and farther down the Red Cedar Nature Preserve on river left. Beyond Dobie Road is the Dobie Road Preserve, owned by Michigan State University on river left and distinguished by the large radio station tower of MSU’s WKAR radio. Ultimately paddlers will reach Ferguson Park, on river left, just before the Okemos Road bridge.