As this summer rapidly approaches, the natural parks near our town are in full season. The warmth of late spring draws in all sorts of wildlife, and there’s a wide variety of trails, hikes and parks open to public enjoyment. Below is a comprehensive list of some exceptionally outstanding reserves, within a (mostly) nearby radius!
Potato Creek State Park:
Potato Creek is a well-known reserve about 12 miles southeast of South Bend, recognized for its biodiversity and explorable trails. A wide range of natural
environments are in store, such as the 327-acre Worster Lake, restored prairies, mature woodlands, old fields and various wetlands, each providing you with a unique way to observe plants and wildlife. (https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parks-lakes/potato-creek-state-park/)
Grand Mere State Park:
32 miles northwest of South Bend is Grand Mere, a stunning display of sand, forest
and coastal sights. The park’s two trails lead to a half-mile stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline, featuring deep valleys and staggering sand dunes. Grand Mere offers swimming, hiking, picnicking, a boat launch and cross-country skiing
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Mere_State_Park)
Turkey Run State Park:
Though a lengthy 158 miles south of South Bend (roughly a 3 hour drive), Turkey Run is entirely worth the trip,
displaying the unseen side of Indiana’s natural geologic wonders. Explore deep sandstone caves and ravines, stroll alongside stands of old-growth forests, and take in the picturesque waterfalls of the Sugar Creek waterway as you hike along the park’s unique trails.
(https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parks-lakes/turkey-run-state-park/)
Fernwood Botanical Garden:
Fernwood is a renowned botanical garden 20 miles north of South Bend and is a popular field trip destination for various schools across St. Joseph County. Fernwood preserves at least ten ecosystems on its 105 acres, and you’ll revel in its natural areas with miles of walking and hiking trails, an arboretum, a recreated prairie and dozens of their famous gardens. (https://www.fernwoodbotanical.org/)
Warren Dunes State Park:
Warren Dunes, roughly 33 miles northeast of South Bend, is home to some of the largest and most notable sand dunes in the midwest. With 1,500 acres of recreational space along the stunning shore of Lake Michigan, the park boasts three miles of shoreline–perfect for a beach day–
and six miles of hiking trails with two campgrounds. Peaking at 260 feet above the lake, its rocky dune formations provide breathtaking views and are a great place to hang glide- (though a permit is required!) (https://www2.dnr.state.mi.us/parksandtrails/details.aspx?id=504&type=SPRK)
Rum Village Park:
Located in South Bend itself, Rum Village is a quaint park that holds more than meets the eye.
Deer, foxes, amphibians, reptiles and a wide variety of birds can be found in the 160 acres of undulating woodlands. Given the abundance of sights to see and events to partake in, Rum Village’s popularity is ever-growing. The park features a nature center, disc golf, a dog park, picnic shelters, playgrounds and three miles of winding trails.
(https://sbvpa.org/places/rum-village-park/)
When there’s nothing to do but soak up sun this summer, I highly recommend visiting one, or many, of these fantastic parks. Each offers a unique experience with the wildlife of Indiana and Michigan, and there’s something for everyone at every location. Whether you’re hiking through sand in Warren Dunes or exploring the caves of Turkey Run, you’re sure to make the most out of a summer outdoors!
