Bunker Nature Preserve - Mason,
Bunker Nature Preserve – Dog-Friendly Hiking in Mason, MI
Bunker Nature Preserve offers an idyllic natural retreat in Mason, Michigan, perfect for those who love to hike with their dogs. While not a traditional fenced dog park, this scenic preserve is known for its hilly, grass-mowed trails winding through open space, ponds, and small woodlots. You’ll be greeted by the sights and sounds of local wildlife, wildflowers, and beautiful sunsets on your pet-friendly walking adventures. Benches placed along the paths provide resting spots for you to enjoy woodland views and quiet moments with your pup.
Please note: Dogs are not allowed at Bunker Nature Preserve according to first-hand visitor reviews. If you are looking for dog-friendly hiking near Mason, please verify current park policies before bringing your furry companion. The preserve is also kid-friendly, making it a popular spot for families looking to enjoy nature together. Keep an eye out for ticks during warmer months, as visitors report their presence in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, ticks are reported to be very common, especially during spring and summer. It’s important to check yourself and your pets after visiting.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are scattered wooden benches throughout the trail for guests to rest and enjoy the scenery.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve features several walking and hiking trails that take you through ponds, grassy areas, and woodlots.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? The preserve is considered kid-friendly and is a great place for family hiking and exploring nature.
Reviews
Pretty walk, but the ticks are a real problem
A quiet, pleasant getaway with scattered wooden benches along the path. I stumbled across one bench with a perfect view of a fawn that had stopped to take a drink from a pond, and when it saw me, the whole herd burst from the reeds and leaped away. The beautiful fall foliage was a bonus. I would definitely go back!
Beautiful area, lots of birds and wildlife, and really nice walking trails. But wow these ticks are unlike anything I’ve ever seen. I must have pulled a couple dozen off of me. I rolled up my pants leg and counted 8 on one leg. My pants were crawling with them, and my shoes had at least a dozen more. I really have never seen so many ticks in my life. I’ve spent hours checking myself and girlfriend because there’s always one more hiding. Anyway, other than that it was awesome. Beautiful sunset and we saw an owl!
OK place if you just want a walk. I saw plenty of Wildflowers but very little Wildlife. Trails are not marked but really don’t need to be as they just go back to the start.
I finally got around to checking the preserve out after hearing about it last year. It’s a nice, small natural area, with hilly trails, a series of ponds, and a small woodlot (which the trail just barely intersects with). I’ve been over here a couple times now (had to abort the first attempt because I brought my dog and dogs aren’t allowed), and there’s never been anyone else around. I saw tons of birds and a muskrat during my walk, as well as deer and raccoon tracks along the trail. The trails are similar to those at other conservation district properties, mowed areas of grass with the occasional sign post to keep you on track. I’m looking forward to returning on the later spring and summer when everything is green.