TOP 30 Best Natural ecosystem preservation in Indiana

Asherwood Nature Preserve, managed by ACRES Land Trust, is a beautiful park located in Wabash, Indiana. The preserve features a variety of trails that wind through wooded areas, deep ravines, wetlands, and ponds. Visitors can explore paved trails, wide flat earthen trails, and narrow winding trails that climb steep grades. In the spring, the ground is covered with vibrant wildflowers such as Mayapple, wild geranium, blue-eyed Mary, and Dutchman’s breeches. One of the highlights of Asherwood is the dense stand of towering sugar maples known as a “sugar bush.” During February, visitors may see old-fashioned metal buckets hanging on trees collecting sap, which is then boiled down in the property’s historic sugar shack to make fresh maple syrup at the end of winter.

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.

The James P. Covell Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 2727 County Road 52 in Auburn, Indiana, United States. This preserve spans 2,700 feet along Cedar Creek's west bank and was generously donated by Dr. Jack Covell to preserve his late brother's land for the local wildlife. The preserve features a variety of habitats, including 40 acres of agricultural land, 33 acres of emerging upland forest, and 23 acres of mature forested floodplain. The property is home to a diverse array of wildlife, such as wild turkeys, great blue herons, belted kingfishers, minks, otters, and more. Some of the trees in the preserve are over 150 years old.

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.

Lilly Nature Center is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 1620 Lindberg Road in West Lafayette, Indiana, United States. This serene oasis offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with lush greenery, peaceful walking trails, and a variety of wildlife to observe. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the great outdoors, Lilly Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in West Lafayette.

The Nature Center in Winamac, Indiana, is a travel agency dedicated to providing unique and immersive outdoor experiences. Nestled in the heart of the United States, this institution offers a wide range of nature-based activities and tours for adventurers of all ages. From guided hikes through scenic trails to wildlife watching excursions, visitors can explore the beauty and diversity of the surrounding environment. Whether you're looking to reconnect with nature or simply seeking a new adventure, the Nature Center is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Baintertown Dam ‒ River Preserve County Park is a picturesque park located in Goshen, Indiana, United States. This beautiful park offers a tranquil setting along the river, with stunning views of the Baintertown Dam. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking in this serene environment. The park is a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and connect with nature. With its peaceful surroundings and recreational activities, Baintertown Dam ‒ River Preserve County Park is a must-visit destination for residents and tourists alike.

Lindenwood Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located at 600 Lindenwood Avenue in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This beautiful preserve offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with winding trails through lush forests, tranquil ponds, and vibrant meadows. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. With its diverse ecosystem and stunning natural beauty, Lindenwood Nature Preserve is a true gem in the heart of Fort Wayne.

Vandolah Nature Preserve, managed by the ACRES Land Trust, is a peaceful oasis located at 16151 Tother Road in Indiana, United States. Despite the constant hum of Interstate 69 nearby, this preserve offers a glimpse into the region's natural beauty before development took over. Originally owned by James and Rebecca Vandolah in the 19th century, the preserve's woodlands and wetlands have been preserved for future generations to enjoy. Thanks to a generous gift from their great-grandson, Barney Stellhorn, the land is now protected by ACRES Land Trust.

Pecar Park Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 5203 East County Road 150 North in Avon, Indiana. This nature center offers a serene and tranquil setting for visitors to connect with the outdoors and explore the natural beauty of the area. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and educational programs that highlight the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography while immersing themselves in the peaceful surroundings. Pecar Park Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages to unwind and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

Big Walnut Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 9498 North Co Road 425 East in Bainbridge, Indiana, United States. This large forest is home to a diverse range of plant life and has been designated as a National Natural Landmark since 1968. Co-managed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Nature Preserves (DNP), the preserve spans over 2,400 acres and plays a crucial role in protecting local plants, animals, and natural communities. Visitors can explore the preserve through a variety of trails, including the Tall Timbers Trail, Doyle Trail, and Rayfield Trail. The Tall Timbers Trail offers breathtaking views and a moderate 2.8-mile loop hike, while the Doyle Trail features a 1.3-mile loop through tree plantations. The Rayfield Trail is an easy 2-mile out-and-back route that ends with a beautiful view of Big Walnut Creek.

Cedar Bluffs Nature Preserve, located at 8484 South Ketcham Road in Bloomington, Indiana, is a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts in the Hoosier State. Featuring a 75-foot high limestone bluff and gnarled red cedars clinging to cliffs, this preserve showcases species adaptation and survival in a harsh environment. The stunning views and challenging terrain make it a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers alike. Owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy, Cedar Bluffs offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse ecosystem and learn about the importance of conservation efforts. Visitors must use the marked access trail from Ketcham Road to enter the preserve and are reminded to stay on designated paths to protect the native vegetation. With its rich biodiversity and geological history, Cedar Bluffs Nature Preserve is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Welcome to Black Rock Nature Preserve, a hidden gem located at 11598 East 350 North, Otterbein, Indiana. Nestled in the heart of Warren County, this unique park offers a rare glimpse into Indiana's north central region's natural beauty. Managed by the NICHES Land Trust, Black Rock Nature Preserve boasts stunning siltstone glades and sandstone outcroppings, surrounded by delicate wildflowers that make this habitat truly one-of-a-kind. Originally gifted to NICHES by The Nature Conservancy of Indiana in 1999 and dedicated as a State Nature Preserve in 2002, Black Rock is a testament to conservation and ecological stewardship. NICHES, in collaboration with the Indiana Heritage Trust and Division of Nature Preserves, is committed to preserving this pristine environment by monitoring and removing invasive species and allowing farmed fields to revert to their natural state.

Ambler Flatwoods Nature Preserve is a hidden gem located in Michigan City, Indiana. This Indiana state nature preserve is a sanctuary for a variety of plant and animal species, including rare club mosses, colorful mushrooms, salamanders, migratory birds, and hooting owls. With vernal pools, rivulets, and woodland ponds, the preserve comes alive in early spring with a chorus of calling frogs. This unique boreal flatwoods natural community is home to at least 39 state-listed plant species and many others considered rare in the region. Visitors can explore the preserve's trails and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. The main parking lot is conveniently located on Meer Road, with additional parking available at the northern trailhead on Freyer Road. Come discover the wonders of Ambler Flatwoods Nature Preserve and experience the magic of the great outdoors.

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.

Eagle Slough Natural Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 5000 Waterworks Road in Evansville, Indiana, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors the chance to explore and enjoy the diverse wildlife and scenic views of the surrounding wetlands and forests. With well-maintained trails, birdwatching opportunities, and peaceful picnic areas, Eagle Slough Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with the great outdoors. Come and experience the beauty and serenity of this hidden gem in Evansville!

Located in Gary, Indiana, United States, the Little Calumet River Prairie and Wetlands Nature Preserve is a park adjacent to the Indiana University Northwest campus. Spanning 11 acres, this preserve features prairie, wetland, and woodland habitats that aim to restore ecological diversity to the area. Originally home to the meandering Little Calumet River, the site has been straightened and filled in over time, but efforts are underway to bring back over 250 native plant species. Led by Dr. Spencer Cortwright, stewardship efforts include herbicide application, seeding, plug transplanting, and prescribed fires. The goal is to not only preserve the natural beauty of the area but also to raise awareness about the importance of protecting these unique ecosystems.

Welcome to the Gordon & Faith Greiner Nature Preserve, a hidden gem nestled at 200 North Liverpool Road, Hobart, Indiana. This enchanting park offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse natural communities that define northwestern Indiana's landscape. From open sandy dunes and oak savannas to fens, wet woods, swamps, and prairies, each step reveals a new and vibrant ecosystem teeming with native plants and wildlife. The preserve's southern area, once used for agriculture, is now undergoing a beautiful transformation back to its prairie roots. Meanwhile, the northern section hosts fens, a rare type of wetland sustained by year-round groundwater. Here, visitors can admire a lush plant community, including sedges, wildflowers, and even rare species like poison sumac.

Welcome to Thousand Acre Woods Nature Preserve Nestled in the heart of Daviess County, Indiana, Thousand Acre Woods Nature Preserve is a breathtaking sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and wildlife alike. Located at County Road 300 East, Washington, Indiana 47501, this remarkable park offers visitors a chance to explore one of the rarest and most beautiful ecosystems in the state.

Heinzerling Family Five Points Nature Preserve, managed by ACRES Land Trust, is a beautiful park located at 6800 County Road 7A in Garrett, Indiana, United States. The preserve features the scenic Black Creek, which meanders through vibrant wetlands, agriculture acreage, an oxbow stream, and a small forested wetland system. Visitors can enjoy a stunning display of fall foliage and a carpet of wildflowers in the spring, including Dutchman’s breeches, wild geranium, bloodroot, and trillium. The preserve also holds historical significance, with remnants of an interurban rail line and the former Five Points School on the property. The land was originally purchased by Carl Heinzerling in the 1920s, a co-founder of the Creek Chub Bait Co. His grandchildren have worked to protect this land for future generations.

Stoutsburg Savanna Nature Preserve is a serene park and tourist attraction located at West 1100 North in Wheatfield, Indiana, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the chance to explore a diverse range of natural habitats, including savannas, wetlands, and woodlands. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and picnicking in this peaceful and picturesque setting. Stoutsburg Savanna Nature Preserve is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world.

Welcome to Rock Creek Nature Preserve, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Warren County, Indiana. Located at West 400 South, Williamsport, our park offers a picturesque escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems, Rock Creek Nature Preserve provides a perfect backdrop for hiking, bird-watching, and peaceful reflection. Our well-maintained trails meander through dense forests and open meadows, inviting visitors to explore the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of the area. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, our trails cater to all levels of adventurers. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and vibrant plant species that call our preserve home.

Bachner Nature Reserve is a peaceful park located in Indiana, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and explore the diverse wildlife and plant life that call the park home. With scenic walking trails, lush greenery, and serene ponds, Bachner Nature Reserve is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or simply enjoy a picnic with family and friends, this park provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Come visit Bachner Nature Reserve and experience the beauty of nature in Indiana.

Welcome to Saunders Woods Nature Preserve, a hidden gem in the heart of Indiana's natural landscape. Located on County Road 100 North, Princeton, Indiana, Saunders Woods offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the largest unfragmented blocks of bottomland hardwood forest in the state. Acquired in 1998, this 920-acre preserve is a testament to successful conservation efforts in partnership with the Indiana Heritage Trust and the North America Wetland Conservation Act. Saunders Woods is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts. The forest is dominated by majestic pin and overcup oaks, pecans, and shellbark hickories, which thrive in the deep alluvial soils more commonly associated with the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. This unique ecosystem provides a rare glimpse into Indiana's ecological diversity.

Welcome to Ivanhoe North Nature Preserve Nestled in the heart of Gary, Indiana, on Hobart Street, the Ivanhoe North Nature Preserve offers a rare glimpse into a globally unique natural community known as "dune and swale." This remarkable landscape, formed thousands of years ago when ancient glacial Lake Chicago receded, features a series of linear sandy beach ridges interspersed with narrow wetlands. This distinctive topography, reminiscent of the rings of a tree, can be seen extending inland from the shores of Lake Michigan in aerial photographs from the early 1930s.

The John Merle Coulter Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Portage, Indiana, United States. This serene preserve offers visitors the chance to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with lush greenery, peaceful walking trails, and diverse wildlife to observe. Named after the renowned botanist John Merle Coulter, this preserve is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or a peaceful spot to enjoy a picnic, the John Merle Coulter Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination in Indiana.

Discover Goose Pond Cypress Slough Nature Preserve Welcome to Goose Pond Cypress Slough Nature Preserve, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Posey County, Indiana. Located on Indian Mound Road in Mount Vernon, this enchanting park offers a rare glimpse of the Deep South right here in southwestern Indiana. Dedicated as a State Nature Preserve in 1995, Goose Pond is a unique ecosystem featuring a series of small sloughs that stretch along the Ohio River floodplain.

Turkey Run State Park Nature Center is a popular tourist attraction located at 8102 Park Road in Marshall, Indiana, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the surrounding area through various exhibits, programs, and guided tours. Travelers can learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife that call the park home, as well as participate in hands-on activities and educational programs. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking to experience the great outdoors, Turkey Run State Park Nature Center is the perfect destination for a fun and educational adventure.

Pine Hills Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at Indiana 234 in Waveland, Indiana, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse range of natural habitats, including rugged limestone cliffs, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. With its breathtaking views and abundant wildlife, Pine Hills Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, this hidden gem in Indiana is sure to leave you awe-inspired.

DePauw Nature Park is a beautiful and expansive park located at 1400 West County Road 125 South in Greencastle, Indiana. This park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and prairies, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. The park also features educational programs and events that highlight the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, DePauw Nature Park offers something for everyone to enjoy.