There are 142 Saginaw Bay Islands scattered all over the 1,143 square miles of the bay off of Lake Huron. Many are part of the larger Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The islands are known for their diverse wildlife and natural beauty, providing habitat for various bird species and other wildlife. They are also famous for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and bird watching. A vast majority of these islands are small. In fact, the famous Turnip Rock is listed as being among them. We wanted to take a deep dive and check out the largest of the Saginaw Bay Islands.

Featured Image – Saginaw Bay From Space – Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center

Let’s Explore the Islands of Saginaw Bay

Exploring Saginaw Bay’s Major Islands

Saginaw Bay, an integral part of Lake Huron’s waters, is home to a notable archipelago of islands, each with its distinct character. Ten principal islands emerge as significant entities, contributing to the bay’s ecological fabric and historical and recreational richness.

Shelter and Channel Island (aka Gull Island)

Right where the Saginaw River spills into the bay, there’s a hotspot known among those in the know as Gull Island — though it’s anything but a typical island retreat. This place is a walleye angler’s dream, teeming with some of the best catches you can reel in from the local waters. It’s a spot where the “big one” tales aren’t just fish stories; they’re the real deal, and the river mouth serves up some of the most thrilling walleye fishing in Michigan.

Locals also call it Gull Island, which has a history that’s as rich as the soil it’s built on. This island didn’t just emerge from the waters; it was crafted, bit by bit, with spoils from the shipping channels. It’s a testament to the region’s dynamic spirit, having served as a dredge disposal site for years. And there’s no end in sight just yet — estimates suggest it can continue playing this role for another two decades. It’s a living, evolving chapter of the Saginaw Bay story.

But what’s truly remarkable is how wildlife has claimed this spot. It might’ve started as a human-made necessity, but nature has a way of taking things back, making them wild again. Terns, gulls, and cormorants now rule the roost here, thriving amidst the island’s dual legacy. Once upon a time, Gull Island was two distinct landmasses, but they’ve since joined forces, thanks to the ongoing dredge deposits. Now, they stand united, a single island symbolizing the convergence of man, nature, and the unyielding river. So when you set sail for a day on the bay, tip your hat to Gull Island — where the fish bite, the birds soar, and the stories of the Saginaw never grow old.

Charity Island

Charity Island, comprising Big and Little Charity Islands, is remote and largely uninhabited in Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron. With an area of over 250 acres, Big Charity Island is a significant landmass at the mouth of Saginaw Bay. It is designated as part of the Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Known for its lush tree-lined visage, the island has an 11-acre pond and serves as a haven for over 200 species of migratory birds, including the Tundra Swan, and is a popular site for birdwatching.

The island’s history is steeped in Native American lore, as it served as a waypoint for indigenous people and a source of chert for tool-making. It was also marked on French maps as early as the 1600s and may have been visited by French explorer de La Salle in 1679. Notably, Henry Schoolcraft, an explorer and geologist, landed on the island during an expedition in the early 19th century and made geological observations.

During the Michigan lumbering era, Charity Island’s vicinity was a crucial navigational point for ships, which had to navigate carefully around its limestone reefs and shoals. A lighthouse was built on the island in 1857, and it later became the first on the Great Lakes to be automated in 1916. Charity Island also has a history of shipwrecks, with one notable incident involving the passenger ship Oconto in 1885.

The island changed hands several times and was once owned by the Gillingham Fish Company, a significant player in the fishing industry during the 1920s and 1930s. Development plans have varied over the years, with recent developments including the construction of lodging facilities for visitors, who can now experience lighthouse sightseeing and dinner cruises.

Little Charity Island

Little Charity Island, a small 5.4-acre island in Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron, is owned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It was acquired in 1999 and is managed as a Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge unit, administered by Seney National Wildlife Refuge staff. The island hosts some riparian tree life, vital for colony-nesting waterbirds, such as double-crested cormorants. Historically, it was once known as Ile de Traverse and had commercial significance for its riparian water rights when owned by Bay Port Fish Company.

The island is also home to several rare plant species, including the endangered Pitcher’s thistle, which thrives in the island’s sandy dunes.

The Bay Port Fish Company purchased Little Charity Island from the indebted Beutel Fisheries Company in November 1915. This transaction involved the sale of $30,000 in stock. The island and Big Charity Island were owned by the Gillingham Fish Company, a significant fish production enterprise during the 1920s and 1930s. This company was known for shipping large quantities of fish such as perch, walleye, herring, whitefish, and carp to New York and Chicago markets using refrigerated railroad cars from Bay Port.

North Island

Saginaw Bay Islands - Wild Fowl Bay — Wild Fowl Bay –

Over on the western side of Wild Fowl Bay, there’s a spot that’s a local secret: North Island. It’s a rich place with history—you can almost feel the past under your feet with all the chert remains from the island’s days as a Native American workshop. But that’s not the only thing that makes North Island stand out. It’s also an ecological goldmine, with its limestone backbone and the kind of open shoreline wetland ecosystems that nature-buffs dream about.

Here’s the kicker: North Island is privately held. The family that owns it homesteaded the island in the 1800s. They still maintain a cabin and visit the island during the summer season. It has no natural heritage designation and is not part of the Wildfowl Bay State Wildlife Area. So, while it might not be open to the public like the other area islands, those in the know understand the value of this place. It’s a reminder that some of Michigan’s treasures are still unmarked on a map but significant.

Heisterman Island

Heisterman Island, located just south of North Island in Saginaw Bay, has considerable historical and ecological significance. The island bears traces of ancient inhabitants, with various stages of chert tools scattered throughout, indicating a past rich with skilled craftsmanship and daily survival.

As part of the Wildfowl Bay State Game Area, this island is also an ecological asset, featuring vital wetland ecosystems along its open shoreline. These areas are crucial for the local fish and bird populations, providing a natural habitat that sustains diverse species. Despite its ecological importance, Heisterman Island is not formally recognized as a protected area and is not part of the nearby Wildfowl Bay State Wildlife Area. This oversight highlights the island’s quiet resilience and the importance of acknowledging such natural resources.

Geologically, the island is notable for its sub-carboniferous outcrops on the western shore, which have historically provided material for tool-making. Today, Heisterman Island is a quiet but poignant reminder of the longstanding relationship between humans and the natural world, inviting those who appreciate untouched landscapes to explore its shores and history.

Maisou Island

Maisou Island is one of Huron County’s little secrets, quietly resting in the freshwaters of the Wildfowl Bay State Wildlife Area. This island might not make the headlines, but it is a unique ecosystem within its marshy embrace.

What makes Maisou Island so special isn’t just its location; it’s the delicate dance of its wetlands, which play a crucial role in the health of the bay’s ecology. But, like many natural treasures, it faces challenges. The marshes of Maisou have seen better days, with losses that have drawn the concern of ecologists and conservationists alike. These changes in the marshland are a call to action, a reminder of the fragility of our beautiful Michigan landscapes.

Middle Grounds Island

Middle Grounds Island, located in Saginaw Bay within the Wild Fowl Bay State Wildlife Area, is a destination for those interested in kayaking, canoeing, and observing wildlife. It is part of the Wild Fowl Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, featuring narrow inlets and a variety of wildlife. Boaters need to navigate carefully due to shallow rocks and reefs. The area is also known for its fishing opportunities, with species like bass, pike, and walleye available. Additionally, it’s a prime spot for bird watching, contributing to its reputation as a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Pitchers Reef

Pitchers Reef, located in Saginaw Bay, has an intriguing history dating back to the 19th century. Initially little more than a sandbar, it was transformed into a reef by George Pitcher, who swam horses out to the site to build it up. He then constructed a small cabin on the reef, granting him fishing rights there.

Defoe Island

This tiny island was named for Joseph Defoe, who owned it in the 1860s. The island is known for its excellent fishing and duck hunting.

Lone Tree Island

Lone Tree Island is listed among several uninhabited islands in Saginaw Bay, Michigan, within Fairhaven Township. These islands, including Lone Tree Island, are contained mainly within the Wildfowl Bay State Wildlife Area. While the tiny island’s history is unknown, the name “Lone Tree” is significant.

The “lone tree” legend is a tradition among the Indians of Saginaw Valley. Ke-wah-ke-won, a patriarchal chief, was loved and respected by his people. On his deathbed, he imparted his dying counsel and admonition to his tribes in council. He requested to be buried in a quiet spot in the prairie with his tomahawk and pipe by his side. A tree grew from his grave, and a white owl took possession of it, becoming the spirit bird sent to watch over it. Although the “lone tree” no longer exists, the spot where it stood and where Ke-wah-ke-won sleeps is often pointed out.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Saginaw Bay Islands

The Saginaw Bay Islands in Lake Huron are a natural wonder with beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a rich history. They were once home to Native American tribes and played a crucial role in the region’s lumber industry. Today, they offer tranquility and seclusion but require careful planning before visiting due to regulations to protect their unique ecosystems.

The Unique Ecosystem of Saginaw Bay Islands

The Saginaw Bay Islands in Michigan are home to a diverse range of plants and animals. They are crucial for the survival of several bird species and act as natural carbon sinks that help mitigate climate change. However, the islands face environmental pressures from climate change, pollution, and invasive species. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat restoration, pollution control, and invasive species management to preserve this unique ecosystem.

Historical Significance of Saginaw Bay Islands

Steamship Alpena — Saginaw Bay Was Like a Busy Highway in the 1800s.

The Saginaw Bay Islands in Michigan are significant for the region’s cultural and economic development. They have been a hub of activity for centuries, serving as a trading post and center of commerce and industry. Today, they are popular recreational destinations, home to state parks and wildlife refuges. The islands continue to witness the region’s history, reminding us of the evolving relationship between humans and the natural environment.

Birdwatching Opportunities in Saginaw Bay Islands

The Saginaw Bay Islands in Michigan are a birdwatcher’s paradise. Situated along the Atlantic Flyway, the islands are a critical stopover for migratory birds. The islands’ diverse habitats, which include marshes, forests, and open water, support a wide range of bird species. The Piping Plover, a federally endangered species, stands out among the bird species observed. Birdwatching in the Saginaw Bay Islands presents a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature and also involves understanding bird behaviors, habitats, and ecological roles.

Final Thoughts About Saginaw Bay Islands

The Saginaw Bay Islands in Michigan are a significant ecological and recreational resource. They offer unique birdwatching, fishing, and hunting opportunities and have historical significance. However, they face challenges such as invasive species and climate change that require ongoing conservation efforts. Despite that, the islands are a premier destination for birdwatching due to their rich avian biodiversity, making them perfect for observing a wide variety of bird species. So, grab your binoculars and field guide, and embark on a birdwatching adventure in the Saginaw Bay Islands.