The 30 Best nature preserves in Whiting, Indiana

22 results found

The Nonie Werbe Krauss Preserve, located on Eller Road in Fishers, Indiana, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction alongside the White River. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of summer wildflowers, prairie plants, and oak savanna, as well as bottomland forest along the river. The preserve was restored in 2008 with the planting of over 19,000 trees, creating a diverse and thriving ecosystem. Birdwatchers may hear the calls of grasshopper sparrows and willow flycatchers in the preserve, which also serves as an outdoor educational laboratory for Riverside Middle School students. The property was purchased with White River Restoration Trust funds and renamed in honor of Nonie Werbe Krauss, a dedicated volunteer and supporter of the Central Indiana Land Trust.

Fred & Dorothy Meyer Nature Preserve, located at Observatory Road in Martinsville, Indiana, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that is part of the Long Ridge conservation area. Visitors can enjoy a dramatic hike through steep slopes, ridges, and valleys in a large forest block that is unbroken by roads. The forest interior habitat is home to rare native species such as hooded and worm-eating warblers, Eastern box turtle, and the state-endangered cerulean warbler. The preserve features plants that are characteristic of the acidic, sharply drained soil of the ridges, including chestnut oak, black oak, pignut hickory, greenbriar, and star chickweed. In the protected ravines, visitors can find American beech, red oak, white ash, painted sedge, yellow trout lily, and bloodroot. This special property was made possible by a generous donation from Bob Meyer and his family, with additional support from the Indiana Heritage Trust. The preserve is dedicated to Fred Meyer, who played a key role in establishing the state's first dedicated nature preserve in 1969. The original 14 acres known as Shalom Woods was donated by the Cohen family in the 1990s.

Oliver's Woods Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 8825 River Road in Indianapolis, Indiana, United States. As part of the Central Indiana Land Trust (CILTI), this preserve is dedicated to protecting the natural areas of Central Indiana, ensuring that plants and animals can thrive for generations to come. Founded by Ellen Jacquart in 1990, CILTI has been a pioneer in land conservation efforts in the region. Visitors to Oliver's Woods can experience the wonder of the state's natural heritage through various activities such as preserve cleanups and garlic mustard pulls. Join the White River Steward and White River Docents for a cleanup event on April 10th, or participate in garlic mustard pulls at Meltzer Woods in Shelby County on April 11th and Betley Woods at Glacier's End on April 16th.

Welcome to South Wolf Lake Forest Preserve: Parking 1, your convenient and accessible parking solution located at 1802 Caroline Ave, Whiting, Indiana. Nestled in the serene surroundings of the South Wolf Lake Forest Preserve, our parking facility offers a safe and secure environment for your vehicle while you enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the area. Whether you're here for a leisurely walk, a day of fishing, or a family picnic, our parking area provides easy access to all the preserve has to offer. Experience the tranquility of nature with the peace of mind that your vehicle is in good hands. Visit us today and start your adventure at South Wolf Lake Forest Preserve!

Welcome to Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Schererville, Indiana. Located at 135 East Main Street, this remarkable preserve is one of the few remaining grasslands in the Midwest, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region's natural heritage. Dedicated as both a State Nature Preserve and a National Natural Landmark in 1977, Hoosier Prairie is a sanctuary of ecological diversity amidst the industrial backdrop of Northwest Indiana. Spanning a rich tapestry of rolling topography and sandy soils, the preserve is home to more than 350 native plant species, including 43 that are uncommon or rarely seen in Indiana, such as the striking wild white indigo. This vibrant ecosystem supports a variety of habitats, from dry black oak barrens to wetland pools and wet prairies, all carefully conserved to maintain their natural beauty and ecological importance.

Welcome to White Oak State Fishing Area, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Bruceville, Indiana. Located at 4541 North White Oaks Road, our park is a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and fishing aficionados alike. Spanning lush landscapes and tranquil waters, White Oak State Fishing Area offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our park is renowned for its abundant fishing opportunities, catering to both seasoned anglers and beginners. Whether you're casting a line from the shore or enjoying a peaceful day on the water, you'll find a variety of fish species to challenge and delight you.

Welcome to Barker Woods Nature Preserve Nestled in the heart of Michigan City, Indiana, at 444 Barker Road, Barker Woods Nature Preserve offers a serene escape into nature amidst an urban residential setting. Established as a dedicated state nature preserve in 1975, Barker Woods is a rare urban example of an old-growth forest, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Welcome to Hilltop Farm Nature Preserve, a serene 119-acre park nestled at 28796-28976 Stout Road, West Harrison, Indiana. Open daily from dawn to dusk, this enchanting preserve invites visitors to explore its natural beauty along two distinct trails. The Upper Loop meanders through a picturesque woodland, showcasing native trees like spicebush, shagbark hickory, white oak, and black walnut. This 1.3-mile round trip offers a tranquil escape into nature's embrace. Meanwhile, the Lower Loop encircles a vibrant meadow, where summer wildflowers provide nourishment and shelter for songbirds, hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators. This trail offers a slightly longer adventure, with a 1.6-mile round trip.

Gingerbread Village is a unique tourist attraction located at 13400 Allisonville Road in Fishers, Indiana, United States. Our institution aims to expand the boundaries of historical and natural resources by celebrating and improving the human experience. With a focus on the past, present, and future, we welcome a diverse range of voices and experiences. Visitors can connect with nature by exploring the prairie and oxbow of the White River on our two-mile long Trails at Conner Prairie. The trails, including a paved Prairie Trail and a rugged R.B. Annis Vista Trail, offer a wildlife-friendly experience for all.

Hobart Prairie Grove is a beautiful park located in Hobart, Indiana, United States. This park features forested ravines and a portion of scenic Lake George, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. The Hobart Woodland trail provides a picturesque hike with overlooks of Lake George, while the Oak Savannah rail trail is perfect for biking, strolling, or hiking to relax and improve your health. Covering about 300 acres, Hobart Prairie Grove preserves various habitats such as wetlands, prairie remnants, white oak flatlands, and a rare bur oak savanna. With 343 native plants and abundant wildlife, this area is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The unique soil composition, rich in silt and clay, contributes to the diverse ecosystem found at Hobart Prairie Grove.

The Bluffs of Beaver Bend, located on Spout Springs Road in Shoals, Indiana, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that is a botanical and geological wonderland rich in history and local lore. Towering sandstone cliffs overlook the White River, adorned with colorful ferns and a variety of lower plants that create a kaleidoscope of colors and textures. The area has a rich history, with Native Americans using the bluffs as shelter and the river as a source of food, and tales of moonshiners, bootleggers, and buried treasure adding to its mystique. Owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy and the Indiana Division of Nature Preserves, the Bluffs of Beaver Bend is a gem that offers permanent and sustainable protection. The preserve is known for its variety of ferns, trees, shrubs, mosses, and other plants, as well as being a haven for migrating birds such as Warblers and Woodpeckers.

Welcome to Kankakee Sands - Birding Overlook! Nestled in the heart of Northwest Indiana, Kankakee Sands is a stunning 8,400-acre prairie and wetland restoration managed by the Indiana chapter of The Nature Conservancy. This vibrant ecosystem connects with other natural treasures like Willow Slough Fish and Wildlife Area, Beaver Lake Nature Preserve, and Conrad Savanna Nature Preserve, creating a vast expanse of over 20,000 acres of diverse habitats.

Welcome to the German Methodist Cemetery Prairie, a remarkable nature preserve and park located at 15210 Parrish Avenue, Cedar Lake, Indiana. As one of the finest black soil prairie remnants in the Midwest, this preserve offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore over 200 species of native plants within its less than 3-acre area. Dedicated as a State Nature Preserve in 1981, the German Methodist Cemetery Prairie stands as a testament to the rich biodiversity that once flourished across northwest Indiana's fertile lands. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant tapestry of wildflowers and prairie plants that adorn the landscape throughout the seasons. In spring, the prairie is blanketed with white and pink shooting stars, while summer brings the towering yellow blooms of prairie dock and compass plant. As autumn arrives, the golden grasses provide a stunning backdrop for the purple asters, yellow sunflowers, and blue gentians. Among the diverse flora, you can find the state-threatened cream wild indigo and the rare white upland aster, making this site one of Indiana's most diverse natural habitats.

Welcome to Hoosier Prairie, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Highland, Indiana. Located at coordinates 41 522903, this exceptional park is one of the few remaining grasslands in the Midwest, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region's natural heritage. Designated as both a State Nature Preserve and a National Natural Landmark in 1977, Hoosier Prairie is a testament to ecological diversity amidst the bustling industry of Northwest Indiana. Spanning rolling topography and sandy soils, Hoosier Prairie boasts a rich tapestry of habitats that support over 350 native plant species, including 43 that are uncommon or rarely seen in Indiana. Among these are the striking white wild indigo and other prairie treasures like Indian paintbrush and rose pogonia. The preserve is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot red-headed woodpeckers, sedge wrens, and the delicate eyed brown butterflies. Keep an eye out for the unusual reptiles and amphibians that thrive in the wet prairie "potholes."

Welcome to Conrad Station Savanna: A Hidden Gem in Lake Village, Indiana Discover the natural beauty and historical intrigue of Conrad Station Savanna, a 360-acre sand savanna located on County Road 725 North in Lake Village, Indiana. Managed collaboratively by The Nature Conservancy and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources' Division of Nature Preserves, this unique park offers a glimpse into both Indiana's ecological diversity and its rich history.

Welcome to Kankakee Sands - Grace Teninga Discovery Trail, a captivating prairie oasis nestled in northwest Indiana. Located at the intersection of nature and conservation, Kankakee Sands is a part of the illustrious Efroymson Prairie, encompassing 8,400 acres of vibrant prairies and wetlands managed by The Nature Conservancy's Indiana chapter. This remarkable ecosystem bridges Willow Slough Fish and Wildlife Area, Beaver Lake Nature Preserve, Conrad Savanna Nature Preserve, and TNC’s Conrad Station Savanna, forming a collective expanse of over 20,000 acres of diverse natural habitats. While our Bison Viewing Area and certain facilities are temporarily closed for an exciting makeover, the Grace Teninga Discovery Trail and Conrad Station Savanna remain open for exploration. Dive into a world where more than 86 rare, threatened, and endangered species thrive, and over 600 species of native plants flourish, creating a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

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.

Holley Savanna: A Hidden Gem in Indiana's Natural Landscape Nestled in the heart of Newton County, Holley Savanna offers a unique glimpse into Indiana's diverse ecosystem. Located at 3250 East 100 South, Fair Oaks, Indiana, this quaint preserve may not boast grand vistas, but its ecological importance is undeniable. Holley Savanna serves as a vital corridor for a variety of plants and animals, including several endangered and threatened species.

Welcome to the Hobart Woodland Trail, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Hobart, Indiana. As a captivating park and tourist attraction, this trail offers a serene escape into nature's beauty. Located at Hobart, Indiana 46342, the Hobart Woodland Trail is part of the Hobart Prairie Grove, which spans approximately 300 acres and showcases a diverse array of habitats, including wetlands, prairie remnants, white oak flatlands, and the rare bur oak savanna. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of forested ravines and the picturesque Lake George, which is part of the Deep River. The Oak Savannah rail trail, running through this area, provides an excellent path for biking, strolling with a stroller, or hiking for relaxation and health improvement. This trail is a part of the Indiana Dunes National Park, known for its unique soil composition that supports an impressive diversity of plant and wildlife.

Welcome to Mossy Point: A Nature Lover's Paradise Nestled in the heart of Bloomingdale, Indiana, Mossy Point is a serene and ecologically diverse park that promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Located at 39 854454, Bloomingdale, Indiana 47832, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of high ridges, sandy ravines, and breathtaking views of the ever-charming Sugar Creek.

Welcome to McDonald Park, a charming community oasis located at 199 South Council Street in the heart of Attica, Indiana. This centrally-located, one-square-block park is a vibrant hub of recreational activities and scenic beauty, perfect for families, sports enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. At McDonald Park, you'll find a variety of amenities designed to cater to visitors of all ages. The park features four basketball goals and two tennis courts, which are also marked for pickleball, providing ample opportunities for sports lovers to engage in friendly competitions. The bandstand serves as a focal point for community events and live performances, while the playground equipment ensures that children have a safe and fun place to play.

Welcome to Canada Park, your ultimate destination for outdoor adventure and relaxation in Michigan City, Indiana. Located at 300 Center Street, our park offers a delightful escape into nature with a wide range of activities and accommodations to suit every visitor. Explore our scenic campsites and accommodations, perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer retreat. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the experience, our camping basics and recommendations will ensure a memorable stay. Discover a plethora of things to do, from hiking our picturesque trails to engaging in various activities and experiences designed to captivate all ages.