The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Why You Should Visit 

The Hoosier Prairie hosts a surprising and stunning array of prairie plants and great ecological diversity amidst the industry of Northwest Indiana. The rolling topography and sandy soils create a variety of habitats that support more than 350 native species of plants, at least 43 of which are uncommon or rarely seen in the state.

Location

Lake County

Ecoregion

Great Lakes

Size

1,547 Acres

Dedicated

State Nature Preserve, 1977

Designated

National Natural Landmark, 1977

Owned & Managed By

Division of Nature Preserves & U.S. National Park Service

Partners 

DNR-Lake Michigan Coastal Program, Indiana Heritage Trust, North America Wetland Conservation Act

What The Nature Conservancy is Doing/has Done

The Nature Conservancy along with coalition of organizations worked hard to protect the land from 1976 through 2004. Around 2005, additional tracts of land were acquired and transferred to the Department of Natural Resources. The DNR continues stewardship work that will increase the ecological diversity of the preserve.

Things To Do

What to See: Plants and Animals

Rare habitats such as the dry black oak barrens, wetland pools and wet prairies are conserved at the Hoosier Prairie as well as over 350 native plants, 43 species being uncommon or rarely seen in Indiana. Plants like the white wild indigo, prairie parsley, Indian paintbrush and rose pogonia can be spotted among the tall Indian grass. Red-headed woodpeckers, Sedge wrens and eyed brown butterflies can also be observed along the prairie and savanna with unusual reptiles and amphibians supported by the wet prairie "potholes".

Plan Your Visit

The easy terrain and developed trails make for a pleasant hike through the preserve.

For More Information

DNR's Hoosier Prairie Preserve

Directions

From North U.S. 41, turn right (east) on Main Street toward Griffith. The parking lot is on the right side of the road after crossing Kennedy Avenue.  

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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