The Great Lakes population of piping plovers was historically several hundred breeding pairs in size, but had declined to 17 breeding pairs by the time the species was listed as endangered by the federal government in 1986. Since then, the population has fluctuated between 12 and 50 breeding pairs with breeding areas largely confined to Michigan, and a large portion of those have been consistently at Wilderness State Park. During the 2002 nesting season, 16 of 52 active nests were at Wilderness.

Most of this area was cut-over prior to 1900, leaving only one small stand and scattered individual trees intact. Yet, the area has re-grown and now stands as it once did, providing its visitors an opportunity to experience a Michigan landscape as it occurred prior to European settlement. It supports fine populations of two Great Lakes endemic plant species - Pitcher's thistle and Houghton's goldenrod - and additional threatened plants - Lake Huron tansy, Pumpell's bromegrass, and butterwort. The proposed wilderness area encompasses the largest piece of contingent, undeveloped land in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan and offers outstanding opportunities for primitive recreation and solitude.

Waugoshance Point, north shore

Waugoshance Point, south shore

Sturgeon Bay