Toumey Woods

Toumey Woods is an experimental forest at Michigan State University in East Lansing covering around 24 acres. The stand includes American beech, sugar maple, white ash, basswood, wild black cherry, and red oak trees that create a mixed woodland landscape.

The Bennett family preserved around 13.5 acres of natural woodland when settling the land in 1852, later transferring the property to Michigan State University in 1939. It was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1976 in recognition of its ecological value.

The woods bear the name of James Toumey, a graduate of Michigan State University who became dean of Yale School of Forestry and founded the Ecological Society of America. The naming honors his contributions to forestry science and conservation.

The forest is open at all times to visitors without any entry requirements or registration needed. There are no designated parking areas or marked entrances, so visitors should allow time to explore and locate a suitable access point.

The forest retains much of its original composition from before European settlement, making it a reference site for studying natural forest communities. Scientists use this stand as a benchmark to understand how other forest areas in the region have changed over time.

Location: Michigan

Inception: 1976

GPS coordinates: 42.70370,-84.46500

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:26