Red Oaks Nature Center's 30th Anniversary: A Community Celebration

Can you believe it's been three whole decades? The beloved Red Oaks Nature Center in Madison Heights is throwing a fantastic bash to celebrate its 30th anniversary! Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 12, 2026, because from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the center at 30300 Hales Street will be buzzing with excitement. Best part? It's completely free, and there's no need to register in advance – just show up and join the fun!

Prepare for an afternoon packed with delightful activities for all ages. Imagine live music setting a festive mood as you wander through fascinating historical exhibits, showcasing photos and stories from the center's rich past. You can embark on a self-guided "Time Travel Trail" or, if you prefer a deeper dive, join one of the naturalist-guided forest walks to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of Suarez Friendship Woods. Little ones (and the young at heart!) will adore the crafts, yard games, and face painting, while everyone can enjoy some delicious food. It's a day designed to celebrate the past 30 years of nature education and perhaps even glimpse into what the next three decades might hold!

This beautiful green space, now known as Suarez Friendship Woods, has quite a story. Back in the 1950s, the Lamphere school district actually owned this land, building Simonds Elementary and naming the adjacent forest Simonds Woods. It wasn't until the 1980s that the City of Madison Heights acquired the property, adding those lovely woodchipped trails we enjoy today. It was then that the forest received its current heartfelt name, honoring former Mayor George Suarez.

The official ribbon-cutting for the Red Oaks Nature Center itself took place on October 5, 1996 – marking the beginning of dedicated nature education right here. Of course, like many community treasures, it faced its share of bumps in the road. The early 2000s brought financial struggles, leading to staff cuts, but thankfully, the spirit of the community shone brightly! Dedicated volunteers stepped up, ensuring that valuable programming continued, a testament to how much this place means to people.

A pivotal moment arrived in 2012 when the City of Madison Heights signed a crucial lease deal with Oakland County Parks. This agreement, initially for 25 years and later thoughtfully amended to 30 years, entrusted the management and operations of the park to Oakland County. It was a partnership that truly solidified the center's future. We owe a debt of gratitude to individuals like former Madison Heights City Councilman Lindell Ross, who championed the city's acquisition of the property in the 80s, and the late Oakland County Commissioner Gary McGillivray, who skillfully brokered that transformative 2012 lease deal. Today, Oakland County Parks, along with the passionate parks naturalist Benjamin Prowse, continues to care for this precious space. Madison Heights City Councilman Quinn Wright also remains a strong advocate for this cherished community asset.

So, as Red Oaks Nature Center prepares to blow out 30 candles, let's all come together and celebrate this remarkable milestone. It's more than just a party; it's a recognition of three decades of fostering a love for the natural world, right here in our backyard. Come share in the joy, reminisce about the past, and look forward to many more years of discovery and connection at this wonderful community hub!