The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Why You Should Visit

This unique hardwood wetland is home to at least fifteen different endangered or threatened plant and animal species. Bird watching is also a popular activity at the Bottoms.

Location

Monroe County

Ecoregion

Interior Low Plateau

Size

515 Acres

Owned & Managed By

Sycamore Land Trust and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Partners 

Indiana Heritage Trust

Conservation Efforts that have been Done

The Sycamore Land Trust and its volunteers built a two-mile interpretive trail and boardwalk for visitors to explore the wetland more easily, especially when rains can make the preserves inaccessible during wet seasons.

Things To Do

What to See: Plants and Animals

Keep on eye out for unusal and rare species like the endangered Kirtland's Snake and Northern Crawfish frog.  Numerous bird species such as the Bald Eagle, Great Blue Heron, Barn Owl or Henslow's Sparrow also can be observed at the preserve.

Plan Your Visit

The trail is moderate to rugged with spring rains or wet periods limiting access to the hardwood forest. Floods in the area will make the preserve inaccessible.

For More Information

The Sycamore Land Trust

Directions

From the north side of Bloomington, take Kisner Pike north (turns into Bottom Road after crossing S.R. 37). After Bottom Road separates from C.R. 100 W, go roughly 0.7 mile to the first parking lot (on the left). You will pass Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge - Restle Unit. To access the second parking lot, continue driving on Bottom Road and turn left on Woodall Road. Go 1.3 miles to the parking on (on the left).

Discussion

Have you been to this preserve? Are you thinking of visiting? See what others are saying about their experiences and add your comments below.

Add Your Comments

Time for you to join the discussion. Tell us about your experience at this preserve. What plants and animals did you see? When did you go? You can help others plan their visit when you share your thoughts. And thank you for visiting one of our nature preserves!

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