Explore Oscoda's Natural Wildlife Areas

For many of our guests at Huron House, a relaxing getaway on Michigan's Sunrise Coast must include some time to get outside and explore nature. Any time of year, a hike through Oscoda's beautiful and peaceful wildlife areas is a great way to unwind and reset. For this, we suggest you check out Tuttle Marsh and Clarks Marsh. These natural marshes provide visitors with a tranquil atmosphere perfect for bird-watching and the chance to observe some of Michigan's unique wildlife and vegetation up close. Both locations are part of the AuSable River watershed so no matter which one you choose, your experience will be filled with plenty of flora-filled landscapes dotted with wetlands that allow visitors to appreciate nature at its finest.

Tuttle Marsh National Wildlife Area is located just 10 minutes southwest of Huron House. It encompasses 5,000 acres of wetlands, meadows, forests and lakes that are home to a variety of waterfowl and other wildlife species. A 400-acre impoundment is at the heart of this site, which is surrounded by hundreds of additional acres of seasonally flooded wetlands. Bring your binoculars, because Tuttle Marsh is the perfect place to do some birding, especially during the spring and fall migration. You will likely see a host of ducks, geese, warblers, egrets, osprey, herons and sandhill cranes – just to name a few. Tuttle Marsh has several marked trails for hiking and snowshoeing.

Located on the edge of the Oscoda/Wurtsmith Airport, Clarks Marsh Wildlife Area is another popular destination for nature enthusiasts visiting Oscoda. This area consists of nearly 800 acres of marshland, wet meadows and shallow lakes that are home to many different species of birds as well as a variety of other wildlife, such as white-tail deer, mink, weasel, otter, fox and coyote. You may even catch a glimpse of a great blue heron hunting for fish or beavers and muskrats swimming in the water. Take in all the beauty that surrounds you as you walk along the unpaved woodland trails throughout Clarks Marsh.

Both Tuttle Marsh and Clarks Marsh offer an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty and diversity of the Michigan wilderness. Each one allows you to reconnect with a peacefulness that only Mother Nature can provide. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or just looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a visit to these marshes is sure to be a memorable experience.