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Spring Arbor Township at O' Brien and McCain Road
View or download map of the Sanctuary here.
The Kate Palmer Sanctuary, located five miles west of Jackson, is a fifty-three acre tract of varying ecosystems:
- Upland and lowland deciduous woods
- A grove of large White Pine trees
- Marshlands and natural springs
- Ever-flowing Sandstone Creek and basin
The Kate Palmer Sanctuary is regarded by many Jackson County naturalists and botanists to be the richest public woods in Jackson County for wildflowers. At the right time of spring (usually late April to early May), the woodland is carpeted with masses of Trout Lilies and Trilliums. Goldenseal, Golden Alexander, and Maidenhair Ferns come later as well as over 50 identified plant species. The Kate Palmer Sanctuary is one of the last places in Michigan to find Shingle Oak trees with their unusual elliptical leaves.
Over 100 species of birds have been identified in the sanctuary, including Pileated Woodpeckers, Wood Ducks, and over 20 warblers.
Sandstone Creek feeds the Grand River and is one of the only streams in southern Michigan able to support a Trout population. The creek dissects the sanctuary providing an attraction to birds and a spot to fish.
Marked trails circle through the lowland woods near the creek. The sanctuary is the perfect size for snowshoeing. Parking for a limited number of vehicles is maintained. The upland woods are accessible by parking at the Trinity Lutheran School. Please inform the school when you enter the sanctuary from there.