Fox and South Island Nature Preserves

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  • Fox Island west end 9-22-08
  • Cabin, SW corner, 5-8-08
  • Panorama from S 8-11-08
  • Gull Point looking W 8-11-08
  • Fox Island west end 2 9-22-08

Click thumbnails to launch in-page gallery

Preserve Activities

Before You Head Out

Please review the preserve rules and the hunting rules, which very by preserve. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

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Visit these two island preserves by boat, kayak or canoe and enjoy nature surrounded by the waters of beautiful Long Lake. South Island is 13.8 acres and accommodates and directs boat access with a seasonal dock and has a one mile interpretive trail that encircles and bisects the island.  Fox Island, 10 acres, has no infrastructure and is mostly enjoyed from the beach.  To help navigate these preserves please check out and download our preserve map.  Crescent Shores is the closest public boat launch to the islands and is located on Cresent Shores Drive off North Long Lake. 

For driving directions click the pin on the map and enter your address.

Grand Traverse County. 24 acres.

Maps + Directions

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Mountain Biking is indicated where there are marked trails that are designed for and capable of handling bike traffic.
Birding can be done on all properties so we have added an icon to lands that are either exceptional for birding in uniqueness or diversity or are being specifically managed for bird habitat.
Fishing is indicated where it is a primary feature of the property.
Hiking is indicated where there are marked trails.
Hunting is indicated where it is legal to hunt however each preserve has specific stipulations which are specified for each preserve.
Kayaking/Canoeing is indicated on properties that either have a put-in on the land or have off-property public access proximal to the preserve. Some preserves are only accessible by boat.
Sanctuary properties have ecologically sensitive features and active use is discouraged.
Parking is indicated where there are designated areas for parking. Many lands do not have specific parking so please be safe and respectful of your parking choices when you visit a preserve w/o designated parking.
Skiing / Snowshoeing is indicated where back country (non groomed) skiing and snowshoeing is recommended and the road and/or parking lot is plowed.
Scenic Vistas are indicated where a grand view of the surrounding area is available.
Trail Running is indicated where there are marked trails that are capable of handling the rigors of trail running and are at least one mile in length.
Swimming is indicated where there is specific access to water and is swimming is a primary feature of the property.
Volunteers are needed at this preserve.