Michigan Audubon Society
Birding Hot Spots
Allegan State Game Area
The Allegan State Game Area is the largest forested area in southwestern Lower Michigan. The 50,000 acre area is divided into two distinct habitats. The Forest Unit, as the name implies, is mostly forested. The Farm Unit Wildlife Refuge, located on the west end of the game area, is mainly agricultural fields that are managed for migrating waterfowl. Nesting bird records for the area are at 136 species, and it is the only confirmed nesting site of the worm-eating warbler. Because of the large size of this location, driving is recommended. There are three driving routes recommended in the aforementioned Birder's Guide to Michigan. The game area can also be accessed by canoe or kayak on the Kalamazoo River.
Contact: 269-673-2430 or www.michigan.gov/dnr.
Location: Northwest of the city of Allegan, near the intersection of M-40 and M-89 in Allegan County. Find Allegan State Game Area.
