Lakeville Swamp Nature Sanctuary is one of the remaining high quality wetland complexes in Oakland County, which are shrinking in number. Many of these areas are the last strongholds of native plants and animals remaining. Lucky for northeastern Oakland County residents, this natural area exists right in their backyards. Lakeville Swamp contains several distinct natural communities including a dense white cedar swamp, prairie fen, southern wet meadow, southern shrub carr, and oak barrens. Lakeville Swamp protects many rare species in Michigan. Past surveys determined that it is an extremely species-rich natural area for Oakland County, and southern Michigan, containing over 400 species of native plants. Branches of Stony Creek traverse the swamp and extend through this valley over three miles from east to west. The sanctuary's single vehicle crossing is a 1,200 foot stretch of Rochester Road built by early settlers and still used today. To the east is southern wet meadow habitat and prairie fen, and to the west, the white cedar swamp and more fen. Planning Your Visit:There is a parking area on the west side of Rochester Road and a short trail leads through a portion of the sanctuary. Off-trail hiking is difficult due to wet, uneven terrain, sedge hummocks, and poison sumac. How to Get There:The sanctuary is located in Oakland County, on Rochester Road just south of Lakeville. For additional information, contact the MNA office at (866) 223-2231.