Discover the Serenity of Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve
Explore Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve, Indiana's serene park teeming with wildlife, scenic trails, and natural beauty for the perfect outdoor escape.
A brief summary to Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve
- 135 E Main St, Schererville, Indiana, 46375, US
- +1219-981-9183
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve is a hidden treasure located in the scenic landscape of Indiana, offering a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike. This expansive preserve is characterized by its rich biodiversity, featuring an array of flora and fauna that thrive in this unique ecosystem. As you wander through the well-maintained trails, keep an eye out for the vibrant wildflowers and the numerous bird species that inhabit the area, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and photography. The preserve is designed for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of untouched nature. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike, the trails cater to various fitness levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the serene surroundings. Along the way, interpretive signs provide insights into the local wildlife and plant life, enriching your experience and understanding of this vibrant ecosystem. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for those looking to escape the urban rush, offering a soothing environment ideal for reflection and relaxation. Visitors should plan to explore the preserve during daylight hours, as it is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. Remember to bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas and wildlife encounters. Whether you are a local resident or a traveler passing through, Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve promises a rejuvenating experience in nature that you won't soon forget.
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some trails may be uneven.
- Check the weather before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience.
- Consider visiting during the spring or fall for a colorful display of flora.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from any location within the Hoosier National Forest, get onto IN-37 N toward Bloomington. Continue on IN-37 N for about 30 miles until you reach the town of Bloomington. From Bloomington, take the exit onto I-69 N toward Indianapolis. After approximately 10 miles, take exit 113 for IN-46 W toward Nashville. Continue on IN-46 W for about 20 miles until you reach the junction with IN-135. Turn left onto IN-135 S and follow it for around 10 miles until you reach the town of Nashville. In Nashville, follow the signs to IN-46 E. Continue on IN-46 E, which will turn into IN-135 S again, taking you south until you reach the intersection with IN-70. Finally, merge onto IN-70 E and continue for about 15 miles, where you will see signs for Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve. The preserve is located at 135 E Main St, Schererville, IN 46375.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in this region. You can consider taking a Greyhound bus to Bloomington, Indiana. Once in Bloomington, you would need to use a rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to reach Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve. The distance from Bloomington to the preserve is about 45 miles, and the rideshare fare could range from $60 to $100 depending on the demand and time of day. It's advisable to check for local bus services to see if any connect you closer to the preserve.
Attractions Nearby to Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve
- Gibson Woods Nature Preserve
- Ivanhoe South Nature Preserve / Shirley Heinze Land Trust
- Pine Station Nature Preserve
- The Gary (Indiana) Historical & Cultural Society, Inc.
- Downtown Art and History Fitness Trail
- Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center
- West Gary Diamond Railroad Crossing
- Sparkle House
- IDNP Miller Woods
- WhoaZone at Whihala Beach
- Lake Street Beach
- Marquette Park Pavilion
- Deep River Waterpark
- Aquatorium
- Southernmost Point of Lake Michigan Information Marker
Landmarks nearby to Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve
- Big Daddy's BBQ
- The Village
- Petro Travel Center
- Iron Skillet
- Brown Skin Coffee Roaster
- Powell-Coleman Funeral Home
- St. Augustine's Episcopal Church
- MM&E Banquets & Events
- T&T Brickhouse Soul Food
- UNCLE PIGS BREAKFAST & BBQ LLC
- Gary Roosevelt High School Historical Marker
- Niya's Pizzeria
- Playo's Nightclub
- Roosevelt Park Pavillion
- Michael Jackson Family Home