Kesling Nature Preserve

Located along the South Branch of the Galien River, the Kesling Nature Preserve is home to a rich diversity of plants and wildlife and has something to offer just about all outdoor enthusiasts. One of the year-round highlights of the preserve is the scenic views of the deep ravine that cuts through the property. A small tributary to the river flows at the base of a 40-foot deep ravine under a canopy of giant beeches, maples, oaks and many other kinds of trees.

As one of the most popular spring bird-watching spots in Berrien County, it is known as one of the few nesting places for the State Threatened Yellow-throated Warbler. The forested corridor along the river is flyway for dozens of migratory birds, particularly warblers and vireos.

The forest is exceedingly rich in diversity of wildflowers that bloom in April and May. Hepatica, spring beauty, large white trillium, prairie trillium, wood anemone and countless others carpet the forest floor, creating hillsides blended with white, purple and the rich green of ferns and wild leeks.

The South Branch of the Galien River is a popular fishing destination as trout and salmon make their runs from Lake Michigan. During the right time of the year, giant steelhead are a common site in the shallow waters of the river.

Three Oakes Township owns property adjacent to the Kesling Nature Preserve and complimentary trail systems are being developed to provide access to additional surrounding natural areas, combining to protect nearly 100 acres dedicated to conservation.

Directions: From I-94, take exit 4A, onto US12 East. Go about 2.5 miles east on US-12 and turn south onto Basswood Road. Go 1.5 miles south on Basswood Road and turn west onto Forest Lawn Road. Follow Forest Lawn Road about .75 miles. The preserve is on the north side of the road, just east of the bridge over the South Branch of the Galien River.