Outdoor Discovery Center

The Outdoor Discovery Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, outdoor education center that was created by a partnership between Wildlife Unlimited of Allegan and Ottawa County and the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District. The 120 acre nature preserve boasts several distinct and 4.5 miles of hiking trails. Over 155 species of birds, 23 species of mammals, 10 species or reptiles, and 8 species of amphibians have been identified. Highlights of the preserve include the DeWitt Wildlife Education facility where white-tail deer and rocky mountain elk live, Parkhurst Birds of Prey facility where injured and unreleaseable hawks, owls, eagles, falcons and vultures live, 13 bodies of water including wetlands and ponds, Ottawa / Potawatomi Reconstructed Summer Village and three sister's garden, and Founder's Hall where native reptiles and amphibians are housed in addition to a variety of taxidermy. On-going conservation efforts include quarterly wildlife censuses, bird banding, invasive species removal, and prescribed burning. The ODC is also host to nearly 150 different species of trees, shrubs, and flowers. Over 20,000 people annually participate in ODC programs with over 30,000 people annually visit the trails and preserve. Program for students correlate directly with Michigan benchmarks and standards for natural sciences and cultural education. Learn more about the ODC at its home page. `