Robert VanCampen - Helmers Dam Nature Preserve
All dogs must be on a leash!
And please clean up after your pooches while using the trails. Learn More
Size
200 acres
Frontage
1¼ miles along the Pigeon River.
Land Description
Before its protection, the property was the most extensive remaining private undeveloped stretch along the Pigeon River. Because the river becomes very wide at this point, the stretch is well-loved by anglers.
Trail Description
A two-track pullout is available with a short walk to the river.
History
When the property became available for purchase, a year-long fundraising campaign resulted in its acquisition as a nature preserve. The preserve is partly named for an old dam that used to exist at the site. John Woollam, a primary donor, also called the preserve in honor of his father-in-law, Robert D. VanCampen of Harbor Springs, an avid hunter, fly angler, and outdoorsman. This preserve lies adjacent to the large Jack and Tucker Harris Working Forest Reserve on two sides.
Directions
ADDRESS: 7417 Afton Road, Afton, MI 49705 - From Indian River, take M-68 east 6 miles to Afton Road. Turn right and travel 1.3 miles to the preserve on the right, where Cut Off Road branches to the left.
Check out the plants and animals found at this preserve using the iNaturalist guide below. Help us document more with iNaturalist.org and eBird.org.
