Charity Island National Wildlife Refuge

Red-Tailed Hawk

Photo courtesy of Brandon Schroeder of Michigan Sea Grant

222-acre Charity Island, the largest island in Saginaw Bay, is part of the "Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge". Its isolated beaches and unique hardwood forest provide excellent habitat for rare and protected plants, animals and songbirds. There is also an historic lighthouse on the island that is under private ownership. The island is located approximately 10 miles off-shore and easily accessible from the AuGres Boat Launch or a privately run ferry service.