Kankakee Sands - Seed Barn

Welcome to Kankakee Sands - Seed Barn

Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Kankakee Sands, a prairie jewel located at 417 West 600 North, Lake Village, Indiana. Managed by the Indiana chapter of The Nature Conservancy, this remarkable expanse covers 8,400 acres of prairies and wetlands, connecting with surrounding natural areas to form over 20,000 acres of preserved land. Here, you can explore diverse ecosystems that are home to more than 86 rare, threatened, and endangered species.

What's Happening at Kankakee Sands?

Exciting changes are underway at Kankakee Sands! While the Bison Viewing Area, the parking area in front of the office on U.S. 41, and the nursery are temporarily closed for renovations, the Grace Teninga Discovery Trail and Conrad Station Savanna remain open for visitors. Stay updated on the latest construction developments by visiting our Facebook page at facebook.com/TNCindiana.

Nature’s Bounty and Wildlife

Kankakee Sands is a sanctuary for over 600 species of native plants, creating a thriving habitat for a wide array of wildlife. Bird enthusiasts can spot more than 240 bird species, including the rare Henslow’s sparrow, northern harrier, and least bittern. The area also supports 70 species of butterflies, including the state-endangered regal fritillary, and over 900 species of moths. Keep an eye out for dragonflies, bees, frogs, lizards, snakes, badgers, and our iconic bison herd.

Experience the Bison

In October 2016, we introduced 23 bison to Kankakee Sands to assist in prairie management. Our herd, now 90 strong, grazes across 1,100 acres of prairie, enhancing the landscape for rare birds and other wildlife. Although visitors cannot enter the bison pasture for safety reasons, the Bison Viewing Area provides an excellent vantage point to observe these magnificent creatures and learn about their role in prairie ecosystems.

Get Involved and Explore

Kankakee Sands offers numerous opportunities for visitors to engage with nature and contribute to conservation efforts. Join our workdays, volunteer as a Bison Ranger or Trail Steward, or simply explore the trails and enjoy a self-guided tour. Whether you're visiting alone or with a group, there's always something new to discover.

Plan Your Visit

Start your journey at the Visitor Kiosk for the latest news and activities. For a deeper dive into the prairie experience, consider visiting during a scheduled workday or event. Check the "Volunteer With Us" tab on our website for upcoming opportunities.

Capture the breathtaking beauty of Kankakee Sands with your camera, and share your photos with us to help showcase the splendor of this unique landscape. Whether you're here for a quick stop or a full day of exploration, Kankakee Sands promises a memorable experience for nature lovers of all ages.