Gillette Nature Association

Photos and Video by Stacy Pokrywka

Promoting Education, Conservation, and Recreation at Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center

Discover Wooded and Parabolic Dunes in the World’s Largest Freshwater Coastal Dune System

Gillette Nature Association (GNA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting events and educational experiences at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park and Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center. Powered by the support of volunteers, we host seasonal and annual events that help fund new exhibits at the Visitor Center, interpretive trail signage, infrastructure improvements, accessibility upgrades, and hands-on learning opportunities. GNA’s goal is to ensure that visitors of all ages can continue to explore, learn, and experience the beauty of Lake Michigan and its one-of-a-kind coastal dune ecosystem.

Video by Stacy Pokrywka

our impact

Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center is part of a network of 11 interpretative locations and visitor centers that provide education services to students and families throughout Michigan.

Source: Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center, Hoffmaster State Park FY 2024 Report by Elizabeth Brockwell-Tillman

Visitors enjoy P.J. Hoffmaster and Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center annually.

K-12 students attended outdoor education programs.

Public participants during our weekly programs.

K-12 programs held annually. Students receive positive outdoor experiences and learn about their state, the management of natural resources, and the importance of natural resources for the economy and lakeshore communities.

Of school program participants are from urban areas, including Grand Rapids Public School District. Most students have never seen Lake Michigan, climbed a sand dune, or visited a state park.

Public programs for children and families to learn more about dunes and Michigan wildlife.

Protected Acres

Video by Stacy Pokrywka

Miles of Scenic Trails

Photo by Lillian Dotzlaf/Little Lill’s Photography

Dune Zones

Photo by Stacy Pokrywka

Miles of Lake Michigan shoreline

Video by Stacy Pokrywka

365 species of native plants & over 300 species of birds

Photo by Elizabeth Brockwell-Tillman

If people can just see the glory of a sunset, or hear a songbird or see a wildflower along the pathway, then they will learn of
the important things in life."

If people can just see the glory of a sunset, or hear a songbird or see a wildflower along the pathway, then they will learn of the important things in life."

– E. Genevieve Gillette

Photo by Stacy Pokrywka

Gillette Nature Association

Promoting Education, Conservation, and Recreation at Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center

Discover Wooded and Parabolic Dunes in the World’s Largest Freshwater Coastal Dune System

our impact

If people can just see the glory of a sunset, or hear a songbird or see a wildflower along the pathway, then they will learn of the important things in life."

If people can just see the glory of a sunset, or hear a songbird or see a wildflower along the pathway, then they will learn of the important things in life."

Stay In The Loop!

If people can just see the glory of a sunset, or hear a songbird or see a wildflower along the pathway, then they will learn of
the important things in life."