Why We Love LC Nature Park
It’s no secret that LC Nature Park is a special place. Whether it’s the peaceful trails winding through the prairie, the awe of seeing bison and elk up close, or the joy of watching children connect with nature for the first time, there’s a unique magic here that draws people back again and again. As we celebrate the season of love, we asked some of our staff, volunteers, and visitors to share what makes LC Nature Park so meaningful to them.
A Sanctuary for Wildlife
One of the park’s greatest treasures is the role it plays in preserving and protecting native wildlife. Our bison and elk herds roam freely across 90+ acres, offering a glimpse into how these magnificent animals shape the ecosystem. As Chloe Smith-Guitard, our Stewardship Director, puts it, "The bison and elk aren't just inhabitants of the prairie, but its architects. It has been fascinating to watch their landscape change over the years as their enclosure expands because you never get the same prairie two years in a row. Some spots will have more grasses, some more broadleaf plants, and maybe a plant species you didn't know was there finally has a chance to show itself. You learn really quickly what the animals don't like because you will inevitably end up with a ton of it."
A Place to Connect with Nature
For many, LC Nature Park is where they rediscover a sense of wonder. Visitors often tell us about the peace they feel when walking the trails or the joy of spotting a red-tailed hawk soaring above the prairie. Sue, one of our land steward volunteers, shared, “Who would have thought that weeding could be fulfilling? At first, it’s work but after a while, the mind quiets down and all is good with the world. It feels good to help spruce up the park for visitors. While weeding around the Trillium Tent fire pit and the pollinator garden, we had an elk stop by to check out our work. Hopefully, they approved!”
The People Who Make It Special
Beyond the wildlife and landscapes, the park thrives because of its people—our volunteers, staff, donors, and community members who give their time, energy, and passion. “This fall on an open Saturday, I brought two of my best friends out to introduce them to the park.” says Kaite Burrows, the Camp Trillium Director, “These friends have Indiana roots, but have both migrated to New York and Boston as adults. Steve took us on a birding hike that was full of interesting facts, good stories, laughter, and even some cool sightings! My friends were in awe over a close encounter with the bison and were so excited to have such a uniquely Indiana experience while they were in town. It was the highlight of their visit.”
Memories That Last a Lifetime
Whether it’s a child laughing in the mud kitchen, a family snapping photos of bison from the safari bus, or a quiet moment by the pond, the park creates unforgettable experiences. LC Nature Park trail guide volunteer, Steve Berlin, shares “I love to see the face of a child or even the adults when they come across a majestic bull elk for the first time up close. I have seen many here and other places over the years, but each time it is special in that I still treasure the largeness and beauty of the animals. There is so much to see with the large animals but even the smallest caterpillar can spark fascination and excitement with the children. Every visit offers new memories”.
Our Shared Love for the Park
As the Executive Director, I’m continually inspired by the love and dedication of everyone who makes LC Nature Park what it is. From the youngest Nature Explorers to our longtime supporters, this park is a reflection of a shared commitment to conservation, education, and community. It’s a place where we all come together to protect what we love.
We’d love to hear why you love LC Nature Park! Share your stories and favorite memories with us on social media or during your next visit. And as always, thank you for being a part of this incredible journey.