Programs & Events

• EVENTS CALENDAR   - to view all events on the county calendar. 
• Thirteen Lines Newsletter.  Download our current quarterly newsletter for upcoming events.
• Nature Programs for Academic Standards for Educators/Teachers/Homeschool Groups. A common list of student programs.
• Call the Park Office at 260-854-2225 or follow our Facebook page for up-to-date information

Park and Facility Rules

Youth Summer Recreation

Contact the Parks Office to register and to receive registration forms.

6.12.25 Update - We still have space in Nature Bound Camp week July 7-11!

260-854-2225 or email parks@lagrangecounty.in.gov

Contact the Parks Office to register and to receive registration forms.

6.12.25 Update - This camp has been canceled due to not meeting the minimum registrations.

260-854-2225 or email parks@lagrangecounty.in.gov

6.12.25 Update - Swim lesson schedule is now full.

1. Choose Session and Class Time - Students will attend the same class time each day of the chosen session.
2. Choose Swim Level from the second photo - be sure the student can confidently do all skills in one level before choosing the next level.
3. Contact the Park Office to sign up and receive registration forms.
4. Complete and return registration forms within 2 weeks to confirm class participation.

We have 6 photo scavenger hunts throughout our 5 larger parks.  Do them all!  

Park and Facility Rules

Find other events HERE.

Facility Rental information HERE. 

Let's Go Walking

May 3 Patchwork Trails Nature Walk is CANCELED due to cold, windy, rainy weather.

Park and Facility Rules

Find other events HERE.

Facility Rental information HERE. 

Parks and Places

Park and Facility Rules

Rental Facilities

The park system has several facilities available for daily rental to enjoy a day at the park.                                        

Reservations may be made up to one year in advance.  All rental rates are subject to change without notice.

Indoor Facilities

Open-Air Facilities

Daily Rental allows access to the rental facility only on the day of rental during open park hours.  Pine Knob Clubhouse & Maple Wood Nature Center: 8am -9m all year. Maple Wood Nature Center is not available in February and March.  Dallas Lake Lodge: 8am-9pm all season.

Weekend Rental allows access to rental facility on days of rental during open park hours only, as follows: Friday 3:30pm-park closing; Saturday 8am-park closing; and Sunday 8am-park closing. No overnights. Pine Knob Clubhouse & Maple Wood Nature Center: 8am-9m all year. Maple Wood Nature Center is not available in February and March. Dallas Lake Lodge: 8am-9pm all season.

How to Rent a Facility

Step 1: Review facilities. 

Step 2: Contact Park Office to check availability and to reserve. Call 260-854-2225 or email                        parks@lagrangecounty.in.gov.  The park office will take your reservation and send you a rental agreement.

Step 3: You have 2 weeks to complete, sign, and return the rental agreement, with payment, to confirm your reservation. Rental fees are NOT REFUNDABLE. Paid rental fees will be applied to a rescheduled date.

Step 4: You will receive a copy of your paid rental agreement and receipt. 

Step 5: If you reserved Pine Knob Clubhouse, Dallas Lodge, or Maple Wood Nature Center Classroom; you will need to pick up a building key with an additional refundable security deposit of $125 in cash or check only.  You will receive the full deposit back when the key is turned in and if the facility is left in "as found" condition. 

Thank you for enjoying our parks!

Email parks@lagrangecounty.in.gov or call 260-854-2225 to make a reservation.

Park and Facility Rules

Trails & Courses

Walking Trails 

You will find nearly 10 miles of trails within the LaGrange County Parks.  Each park offers different views, wildlife, and unique habitats for you to explore.  Take lots of photos to remember your journey.  

Sporting Courses 

Pine Knob Park offers a unique opportunity to practice your archery skills and Delt Church Park shares a newly remodeled disc golf course.  Enjoy all that these parks have to offer!

Park and Facility Rules

About Us

Park Board

The LaGrange County Park Board has a history of acquiring and preserving natural areas throughout the county. 

• John Egli, President
• Eric Maginn, Vice President
• Julia Wolheter, Member
• Paul Baker, Member
• Perry Miller, Member
• Michael Holcomb, Ex-Officio Member / Soil & Water

Park Staff

• Mary Franke, Park Director
• George DeWald, Park Superintendent
• Daniel Schelinski, Events Planner & Nature Interpreter
• Emily Wolfe, Administrative Assistant/Communication Specialist
• Chris Sluyter, Maintenance Technician
• Eric Jordan, Maintenance Technician
• Jacob Weimer, Maintenance Technician
• Randy Merrifield, Park Ranger (PT)
• Tim Cleveland, Assistant Park Ranger (PT)

Brief History

In 1969, The LaGrange County Department of Parks & Recreation (LCPR) was established under the 1965 state park law with a five-member Park Board. The first Master Plan was developed in 1972 with the first official park rules adopted in 1977. LaGrange County Council adopted a new Park Board Ordinance in 1982.

Delt Church Park and David Rogers Memorial Park were the first county park properties acquired and developed by LCPR. Delt Church Park was donated to LaGrange County in 1933 and David Rogers Park was bequeathed to LaGrange County in 1966; both properties were transferred to LCPR in 1972 for development. Amenities evolved and improved over the years. 

Delt Church Park has become a favorite for the Amish Community.  A mega-playground also makes this the go-to park in the area for families. This park boasts the only 18-hole disc golf course in the county, with its first PDGA-sanctioned tournament held in 2025. A two-mile accessible trail winds through the property. Three pavilions have been built and replaced since its beginning, along with adding 2 horse shelters and vault toilets.

Not far away is our David Rogers Memorial Park, which is also nestled in the surrounding rural Amish community. Dr. David Rogers was one of the county's philanthropist pioneers, a land speculator, an herb doctor, and a naturalist. He was buried on site when he passed in 1871. This park was donated and later developed by creating a landscape surrounding a reconstructed village. The village is comprised of 7 historic log buildings, moved from locations within LaGrange County, and includes 4 houses, a barn, a smokehouse, and a performance stage. This has been a perfect venue for historic events, as a favorite rustic background for weddings, and as an outdoor classroom for Forest School. 

Maple Wood Nature Center/LaGrange County Nature Preserve began with a 39-acre donation of property from Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth Lehman in 1985. Shortly after, the Nature Center was built to offer a learning center for the county. To further enhance the advantages of this property, LCPR started an annual event, "Maple Syrup Days," in 1991, to share the process of tapping trees, harvesting sap, and making maple syrup with the community. This event remains a favorite today. Improvements continued with a Sugar House addition and a new wood shed in 1994.  In 1996, a 1200SF classroom was added to the west end of the original Nature Center. Later in 2000 and 2001, 64 more acres were acquired. A wetland/prairie restoration was implemented in a field near the road.  2003 brought a new sugar house for interpretive programs, and the old sugar house was remodeled to become the current syrup store.  Our trails meander through a neighboring 29-acre property owned by Acres Land Trust.  In 2018, an outdoor kitchen was built for the Lions Club to prepare the pancake and sausage breakfast for Maple Syrup Days.  The most recent improvements happened in 2021 with a 1200sf concrete pad installed at the east end of the Nature Center.

Dallas Lake Park began in 1989 with the property acquisition of a former YMCA camp on the southern shore of Dallas Lake. The main building was renovated to become a rental facility. A small building at the entrance once provided housing for the Park Naturalist, and now serves as the LCPR main office. In 2013, additional property, surrounding and including Pond Lil, was acquired and is now a dedicated State Nature Preserve. Dallas Lake Park also provides a public swimming beach.  In 2016, the Sweetgum Pavilion was constructed, and grills, picnic tables, a water fountain, and a vault toilet were added.  A new swimming pier system was installed in 2018 on the public beach.

Pine Knob Park, now our largest property at 275 acres, began as a 59-acre park donated to LCPR by the Pine Knob Conservation Club in 2004. LCPR continued the preservation legacy of the Conservation Club by continuing to restore and preserve the property, even as more property was acquired. This park offers unique amenities developed for the outdoor sportsman. Meteer Lake and Duff Lake offer quiet fishing, and a 3D archery target trail offers opportunities to practice archery skills. One rental facility, the renovated Clubhouse, is a favorite and is open year-round. The newest improvement includes the Mike Metz Fen Trail. This project, completed in 2023, added 2 miles of trails around Duff Lake and included a shelter and vault toilet at the north end, and a fishing dock on the west side. In 2025, an additional 21 acres were added along the west border of the park.  

Five more properties were acquired along the way for a current total of 10 County Park Properties. The additional 5 properties include Cedar Lake Beach, Wall Lake Beach, Shipshewana Lake Park, Duff Memorial Park, and Cedar Fen.

Cedar Lake Beach began with donated property with additional property acquired in 1990 to extend the beach. 

Wall Lake Beach began with donated property in 1985.  In 1988, 2 additional lots were acquired to help with parking spaces.  This property is maintained as a public beach with picnic tables, port-o-john, and a trash can available during the summer season.

Shipshewana Lake Park became a county park in 1976. In 1981, an additional lot was donated to increase the park's size. In 1983 and 1996, improvements were made, including a pavilion, a new well, and a playground.

Duff Memorial Park was the tenth park and was donated in 1995. This 25-acre property is on Cedar Lake.  In 2024, restorative and invasive control was utilized.  We also created a path through the property geared for mountain bike use.  

Cedar Lake Fen is a 31-acre property acquired in 2020 on the east side of Cedar Lake.  Efforts are to maintain/create a desirable habitat for endangered wildlife.

 The first summer recreational program for children began in 1974 with summer day camps that rotated between 8 to 12 different locations throughout six weeks of summer and continued with this format through 1987. Today, LCPR offers 3 different summer day camp programs that fill 5 weeks each summer. Swim lessons began in 1975 and have been held at various county parks through the years. Dallas Lake Park is now the only location for summer swim lessons that can fill up to 4 weeks each summer. The first Forest School Program was held in the fall of 2020 with great success. The naturalist now offers, and fills, a spring and fall session of Forest School, an outdoor nature-based class for young children. This program also meets many academic standards, making it a favorite for home-schooled youth.

 Park publications began in 1980 with its first park brochure to share the locations and amenities of the then-current county parks. The park newsletter, "Thirteen Lines" was first published in 1988. Prepared by the Park Naturalist, "Thirteen Lines" is published quarterly and shares seasonal information, programs, and events. The most recent addition to our publications was in 2020. "The Lonely Satyr," created and prepared by a former Park Naturalist, shares information about area butterflies and upcoming butterfly events and programs. December 2023 marked the beginning our a parks electronic newsletter, created by the Parks Administrative Assistant. One email is sent out at the first of each month highlighting recent park news and upcoming programs and events. 

The LCPR staff has been led by 4 different Directors since beginning in 1974.

Natural & interpretive programs have been led by 6 different Naturalists/Interpreters since 1974. 

Park and Facility Rules

Get Involved

Become a Park Volunteer

• Clean off Trails - especially in autumn
• Trail cleanup after storms
• Prepare newsletter to mail - apply labels, stickers, and stamps
• Stacking firewood at Maple Wood
• Help with special events - Maple Syrup Days, Not so Spooky Trail, and more!
• Maple Syrup Days - preparing, during event, and after cleanup

Friends of LaGrange County Parks

• The best way to volunteer -- Become a member of Friends of LaGrange County Parks.
• This group is instrumental in obtaining grants, holding fundraising events, and assisting with park events.
• Meets monthly - not required but helpful
•  Friends Application.

Be a sponsor

The Parks Dept. hosts a few annual events that are dependent on generous sponsors to provide valuable family education, entertainment, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Individuals, families, community service groups, and businesses are welcome as valued sponsors.  Sponsorship shows the community what resources you value and allows you to share in something that benefits our community.  Current sponsor-driven events and programs include:

• Maple Syrup Days - sponsor funds are used for horse-drawn wagon rides, program entertainment, and educational interpreters. This is a decades-long community favorite that draws over 3000 visitors over a 2-day event from all over!
• FeNGke 5K Fun Run & Walk - sponsor funds are used to provide supplies needed for the event. The remaining funds are used for trail and habitat maintenance in the Mike Metz Fen.
• Not so Spooky Trail - sponsor funds are used for horse-drawn wagon rides through the Not-so-Spooky Trail, program supplies, and maintaining props along the trail. This program is geared for young children and provides interactive activities, crafts, and games for them to enjoy.
• Trail of Lights - sponsor funds are used to purchase, create, and/or update display props used along the holiday walking trail. This was new in 2024 and we look forward to gaining new sponsors to create a cherished family tradition as soon as possible.  We would also consider groups being present to provide and sponsor a specific "something" on each night of the event.  For example, a "Hot Chocolate Station", or a "Cookie Station", or pass-out candy canes.  We are open for ideas to be approved by the park board.

• Memorial Donations - We have always been grateful to receive monetary donations in memory of a loved one.  You may specify a project/event listed below "Monetary Donations" if desired.

• Memorial Benches - A one-time gift will go to purchase a memorial bench, engrave a plaque, and place it in one of our county parks, in memory of a loved one. Find more information in the Memorial Bench Policy & Application.

Do you have, or have you inherited, a property that would be suitable as a LaGrange County Park? Or, maybe you have a property that you could leave to the Parks Department through a will. This is how our Parks Department began, with property donated for public use and enjoyment!  

Contact the Park Office with questions or for more information.

• Call 260-854-2225 or
• Email  parks@lagrangecounty.in.gov

Monetary donations may be shared at any time!  Every donation is appreciated, whether a small donation or a business donation, it all adds up to success. You are welcome to specify a current project or event that you would like to support. Otherwise, all donations are used toward priority projects & events.    

Here is a list of 2025 events and projects, in no particular order, that we are saving for now!

• "LaGrange County Connecting with Youth" Event -- Annual youth event each summer. This provides an opportunity for positive interactions between our community youth and local law enforcement and community resources. We need door prizes suitable for youth in grades 6-12!  Both monetary donations and/or item donations are accepted. 
• Trail Maintenance -- An ongoing mission to maintain the quality of trail surfaces for nearly 10 miles of trails and boardwalks.  Limestone is needed to topcoat thinning areas.  Boardwalk repair is needed as lumber deteriorates.   
• Not So Spooky Trail at Maple Wood Nature Center -- A fall family favorite event for young children!  Financial support is requested to fund the wagon rides through the woods and to purchase/create permanent props that are placed along the trail for this event. Annual resources needed $1,500.
• Playground Equipment --  Delt Church Park Playground is always in need of funds to pay for equipment replacement.   Dallas Lake Park needs new accessible playground equipment.  Estimate $500,000.
• Trail of Lights --  Delt Church Park is the location of a new 2024 holiday light walking trail.  We want to expand our displays and create something special for families to enjoy each year.

Donations may be mailed to the park office or given online HERE.  Under "Purpose of Payment", enter "Donation" and, if desired, enter a specific project or event.  A receipt will be issued.

Park and Facility Rules

Common Questions

Park and Facility Rules

Guides

• Mailed Printed Newsletter - $5 donation per address,  to cover postage & materials for 4 issues per year.
• Email/monthly Newsletter - sign up HERE. 

• The Lonely Satyr - past newsletters

Many birdwatchers flock to our county parks. Our native restoration efforts and a variety of natural habitats attract a beautiful assortment of birds. Grab your binoculars and your camera! 

• Birds of Maple Wood checklist 
• EBird local bird sightings 
• Birdcount.org national bird count activity
• Backyard Birds of Indiana - a resource for learning to identify birds
• LaGrange County Birding Facebook Page

AVIAN SURVEY 2024 - MIKE METZ FEN

Mike Metz Fen was chosen for an avian survey in 2024.  Funds received from the Indiana Academy of Science paid for the survey expenses conducted by area Naturalist, Fred Wooley. Sixteen visits, from April through November, offered the opportunity to record 75 species of birds, identified by sight and sound, through the migrating and breeding seasons.  The report can be found in the link below. It may be fun to use as a list of birds to look for while visiting the Fen at Pine Knob Park.  Enjoy!

Our parks are a great place to learn to identify a variety of trees.

• Trees of Maple Wood is a wonderful resource to have when walking our trails.

• 2024 Park Brochure  
• 2024 Rental Facility Brochure

• Dallas Lake Park Beach Fee:  Daily per person is $1.00.  Family Summer Passes are available for $40 at the park office.
• Maple Wood Nature Center:  It is open by appointment or during programs and events held in the Nature Center.  Call 260-854-2225 with questions. 

Park and Facility Rules

Rules, Reports, & Plans

2024-2025 Park Fees & Rates

Park / Facility Rules

Park Use Resolution 2024-3-21-B

2025 Observed Holiday Schedule   

The Park Offices are closed for observed holidays. The parks are still open for public enjoyment during park hours.

Annual Reports

2024-2029 Master Plan

 This 5-year master plan was approved by the Indiana DNR on September 13, 2023, and adopted by the Park Board on October 19, 2023.  A printed version is available at the park office to view.

Park and Facility Rules

In the News

We are grateful to find LaGrange County Park's progress and accomplishments in local newspapers. 

Lagrange Standard Publications (may need subscription):

• 06.11.2025 "LCDPR receives grant..."
• 05.14.2025 "LCP receives grant..."
• 10.09.2024 "Mindfulness Trail opens..."
• 06.19.2024 "A Look at our County Parks"
• 03.20.2024 " Maple Syrup Days..."
• 03.06.2024 " Maple Syrup Days..."
• 10.30.2023 "No more open..."
• 04.10.2023 "LaGrange County Parks..."
• 03.16.2023 "Local Parks have..."
• 03.09.2023 "Mike Metz fen trails..."
• 03.06.2023 "Maple festival..."
• 02.23.2023 "Signs of spring..."
• 12.26.2022 "First day glow hike ..."
• 10.11.2021 "LaGrange parks department wins ..."
• 07.25.2022 "Event connects youth with ..."
• 06.16.2022 "Why do we need more parks"
• 06.02.2022 "Butterfly wishes spur ..."
• 05.19.2022 "LaGrange County Parks gets  ..."
• 05.05.2022 "Aug 6 event at Delt Church ..."
• 04.28.2022 "LaGrange County Parks provide ..."
• 03.21.2022 "Sweet weekend at Maple Wood"
• 03.21.2022 "Maple Syrup Days auction ..."
• 02.03.2022 "LaGrange parks department ..."
• 02.03.2022 "Snowy Pine Knob County Park ..."

KPC publications (may need subscription): 

• 06.09.2025 "LCDPR receives grant..."
• 03.12.2025 "LaGrange Parks gets grant"
• 02.15.2025 "Maple Syrup Season..."
• 11.26.2024 "LCPD premiers Trail of Lights"
• 09.27.2024 "Mindfulness Trail opens..."
• 09.14.2024 "Mountain Bike Trail open..."
• 08.07.2024 "Hike, 5K this month..."
• 07.31.2024 "There's blue on the horizon..."
• 06.20.2024 "Biodiversity linked to..."
• 03.20.2024 "Maple Syrup Days..."
• 03.14.2024 "Maple Syrup Days..."
• 03.11.2024 "Maple Syrup Days..."
• 02.14.2024  "Volunteer shares...Pine Knob..."
• 02.10.2024 "Parks Dept. receives..."
• 12.23.2023 "County Parks Dept plans..."
• 12.21.2023 "Park Board reveals..."
• 11.01.2023 "Maple Wood Nature Center..."
• 10.18.2023 "Not so Spooky..."
• 04.27.2023 "New Trail at Pine Knob..."
• 03.11.2023 "Maple Syrup Days..."
• 03.07.2023 "Grants help Parks..."
• 12.23.2022 "New Trail at Pine Knob Park ..."
• 10.21.2022 "Not So Spooky Trail ..."
• 10.04.2022 "New Park Pavilion ..."
• 08.28.2022 "Work continues on ..."
• 08.17.2022 "Parks Department offering ..."
• 08.10.2022 "Saturday youth event ..."
• 08.05.2022 "LCYC and LaGrange County Parks..."
• 06.19.2022 "22 local places people can go ..."
• 01.18.2022 "Friends are there to lend a hand..."
• 01.12.2022 "Parks department scheduling ..."
• 11.26.2021 "Crews working to open new trail..."
• 10.02.2021 "LaGrange County Parks Dept honored..."

Other area publications:

• 02.20.2025 "LaGrange Parks..."
• 03.21.2024 "Maple Syrup Days..."
• 03.21.2024 "Maple Syrup Days..."
• 10.14.2023 "Not so spooky..."
• 06.30.2022  "Recreation in LaGrange..."
• 05.16.2022  "LaGrange parks receives..."
• 03.21.2022 "Maple Syrup Days returns"
• 05.01.2020 "Friends of LaGrange County Parks ..."
• 07.08.2020 "Butterfly Count Hosted ..."

Park and Facility Rules

Dallas Lake Park

505 W 700 S Wolcottville, Indiana 46795

• 140 acres on the south shore of Dallas Lake. A wetland observation deck overlooks Pond Lil, a state nature preserve.
• A sandy beach with a swimming pier is open in the summer.  No lifeguards on duty - Swim at your own risk.    Children must have adult supervision.   No dogs/pets are allowed on the beach or in buildings.              

2024 Dallas Lake Park Fees

Effective January 1, 2024, there will no longer be an admission fee to enter Dallas Lake Park.  

New 2024 Dallas Lake Park Beach Fees are as follows:

• Daily Beach Fee: $1 per person
• Season Beach Pass: $40 
• Beach fees are paid in the office or at the fee post at the beach road entrance.

The Beach Fee is collected to fund yearly beach maintenance. This includes replacement parts on the swim pier and new sand for the beach.  Additional donations are gratefully accepted!

Amenities

• playground
• picnic tables
• grills
• vault toilets
• hiking trail
• swimming
• grass playfield

Rental Facilities

• Dallas Lodge
• Sweetgum Pavilion 

Trails

• A 1.75-mile walking trail meanders through wetland, prairie, and woods.
• The trail is accessible for walking, running, strollers, and wheelchairs. 
• No bicycles allowed.
• Link HERE.
• Go on a scavenger hunt while enjoying the trail!
  • Dallas Lake Park Photo Scavenger Hunt Page

• 14 adult fitness activity stations along the walking trail.
• 12 youth fitness stations along the walking trail.
• Begins at the trailhead by the park office.

Location of Parks Department Office

Additional Photos

Park and Facility Rules

David Rogers Memorial Park

2355 W 550 S Wolcottville, IN

• Most notable for its six authentic pioneer log buildings relocated to the park.
• It also is the gravesite and memorial to pioneer philanthropist, Dr. David Rogers.

Amenities

• picnic tables
• grill
• vault toilet
• grassy area
• historic structures
• electricity and water are available
• pickleball court
• barn quilt 
• summer flowers

Rental Facility

• Rogers Barn

Enjoy a scavenger hunt while visiting:

• Photo Scavenger Hunt Page

Park and Facility Rules

Delt Church Park

6455 S 200 W, Wolcottville, IN

•  110 acres of woods, prairie, and grass play area.

Amenities

• MegaTower accessible playground, with zones divided for 2-5 years and 5-12  years
• Picnic tables
• Charcoal grills
• Water (during warm seasons)
• Vault toilets
• Accessible 2-mile loop trail for walking, hiking, and running.  Bicycles are allowed on wide trails and yield to those on foot.
• Large center grass playfield perfect for volleyball nets or other free play activities
• 18-hole disc golf course - the only one in the area
• Horse shelters

Rental Facilities

• East River
• South River 
• Greenwood Pavilion 

• Two miles of hiking trails wind through the woods and restored prairie. 
• Bicycles are allowed on wide trails at Delt Church Park.
•  map link HERE.
• Enjoy a scavenger hunt while walking the trails!!
  • Delt Church Park Scavenger Hunt Page

• 2022 course improvements included a revised course layout, new tee pads, and new tee signs.
• 2023 course improvements included the completion of the Disc Golf rest station.  This will be at Hole 1 and will include the course map sign, a shade sail, a drinking fountain/bottle filler, and picnic tables. 
• Future course improvements include upgrading tee baskets and improving course direction signage.
• Starter Disc Golf kits (bag with 3 discs) are available to purchase at the main Park Office at Dallas Lake Park. +
• UDisc course map link HERE.

Park and Facility Rules

Duff Memorial Park

6225 N 300 E  Howe, IN

New Mountain Bicycle Trail

• Approximately 1.25 miles 
• Trail is one way - signs are posted
• No motorized bikes
• Improvements will continue! 

Ongoing Improvements

• In 2023, restoration efforts began to remove invasive tree/plant species.

Amenities

• Small parking area
• Two picnic tables

Park and Facility Rules

Maple Wood Nature Center and LaGrange County Nature Preserve

4550 E 100 S, LaGrange, IN

• Northern hardwood forest, wooded swamp, and wet prairie. 
• Perfect for spring wildflower walks and autumn foliage scenery.
• Home of annual Maple Syrup Days, held the third full weekend each March.                                                                                                

• Nature Center Hours:  Open during public programs & events held at Maple Wood; and, by appointment.
• Classroom/Main Floor available for rental.

• Trails open daily
• Enjoy walking nearly 2 miles of trails for views of birds, wildflowers, and nearly 40 species of trees.
•  link HERE.

Guides

• Maple Wood Photo Scavenger Hunt Page
• Trees of Maple Wood is a wonderful resource to have when walking our trails.
• Wildflowers of Maple Wood is a wonderful resource to have when walking our trails.
• Additional guides are available HERE.

• Follow our Facebook page for more information as Maple Syrup Days approaches.

ACRES LAND TRUST

Trails run through Acres Land Trust property.  Find out more about Acres Land Trust HERE.  While on trails within the Acres Land Trust property, please respect their rules. 

• Open Dawn til Dusk (and/or seasonal park hours)
• Foot Traffic Only
• Dogs Allowed on Leash
• Take Nothing, Leave Nothing - Do not disturb or remove ANYTHING
• No Horses
• No Bicycles
• Stay on the Trails
• Commercial Photography Prohibited
• FULL RULE LIST

Park and Facility Rules

Pine Knob Park / Mike Metz Fen

2825 E SR120 Howe

• 275 acres of woodland, marsh, prairie, Meteer and Duff Lakes, Mike Metz Fen.

Amenities

• Field archery targets and a wooded 3-D archery trail with life-sized game targets (April-October).  $5 range fee for 3-D archery trail.
• Accessible fishing dock on Meteer Lake and Duff Lake.
• Public Access on Meteer Lake.
• Picnic tables, grills, and a picnic pavilion are provided.

Rental Facilities

• Clubhouse 

• Nearly 4 total miles of trails and boardwalks, including the new Mike Metz Trail, opened in December 2022.  Trails wind through different habitats, offering beautiful views. 
• Link for Pine Knob Trail HERE.  
• Link for Mike Metz Fen Trail HERE. 
• To walk the outer loop of both trails, starting and ending at the clubhouse, equals 3.5 miles.
• Enjoy a scavenger while walking the trails!! 
  • Pine Knob Photo Scavenger Hunt Page  
  • Mike Metz Fen Photo Scavenger Hunt Page

Park and Facility Rules

Public Beaches

NO LIFEGUARDS ON DUTY

Beach Hours

• Summer (May 1 - Labor Day): 8 am - 9 pm
• Winter (Labor Day - May 1): 8 am - legal sunset

Beach Rules

• No alcohol 
• No dogs/pets are allowed on the beach
• No smoking or vaping
• No glass bottles or containers
• No roughhousing or profanity
• No fishing on public beaches
• Children 15 and under must have adult supervision
• Please be respectful of other patrons and neighbors
• Vehicles left after park closing may be towed

Cedar Lake Beach

6890 N. 315 E.   Howe, IN

• Natural, grassy transition to step down into water (depending on water levels)
• Picnic Tables (please do not put in water)
• A port-o-john is made available during the summer months
• Do not tie horses to trees

Dallas Lake Beach

505 W 700 S Wolcottville, IN  within Dallas Lake Park

Dallas Lake Park 2024 Beach Fees:

• Daily Beach Fee: $1 per person
• Season Beach Pass: $40

This fee is collected by the honor system.  The fee is payable with cash at the beach entry post or in the office.  You may also pay by credit card in the office or by scanning the QR code on the post.

The Beach Fee is collected to fund yearly beach maintenance. This includes replacement parts on the swim docks and new sand for the beach.  Additional donations are gratefully accepted!

• Sandy Beach
• Accessible Pier
• Marked Buoy Swimming Area
• Picnic tables (please do not put in water)

Additional Dallas Lake Beach Rules --

1. Do Not move swim ropes
2. No watercraft are allowed inside roped swim area 
3. Do not tie watercraft to buoys or ropes

Swim Lessons are held at Dallas Lake Beach from 9 am - 4 pm, Monday-Friday, from June 9 - August 1.  Please swim in the designated public swim portion to not interfere with swim lesson instruction. Thank you!

Wall Lake Beach

6210 N.  1170 E.    Orland, IN

• Sandy Beach
• Small grassy, open area for picnics and games
• A port-o-john is made available during the summer months
• Picnic tables (please do not put in water)
• Do not tie horses to trees

Explore other LaGrange County Parks HERE.

Park and Facility Rules

Shipshewana Lake Park

3180 N.  915 W.    Shipshewana, IN

• A lakeside picnic area and playground. 
• A port-o-john is available during the summer months.
• Beautiful sunset views over the lake

Park and Facility Rules

Events Calendar

Events at Parks Department

Maple Syrup Days

Thank you for another successful Maple Syrup Days!  See you next year!

Things to remember

Saturday & Sunday, March 15 & 16, 2025

Maple Wood Nature Center  4550 E 100 S, LaGrange, IN 46761

• Pancake meals served both days:  7:00 AM - 1:30PM
• Syrup Store open both days: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
• Sugar Shack open both days: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM 
• Horse Drawn wagon rides both days: 8:00 AM - 2:ooPM
• Puppet Shows both days: 8:30 aM - 2:00 PM

• Dress for the weather. Most everything is outside!
• Pancake Breakfast is CASH or CHECK ONLY. Change is limited. 
  • Children ages 4-11 meals are $5 each.
  • Children ages 12+ and Adult meals are $10 each.
• Outdoor Maple Treats are CASH ONLY. Change is limited.  
  • Maple Sugar Kettle Corn - $3 each    (prepared by volunteers)
  • Warm Sap Tea - $1 each  (sponsored by Friends of LaGrange County Parks)
• Syrup Store 
  • Real Maple Syrup - prices start at $10
  • Cash & Checks are accepted
  • Credit Cards are accepted - a convenience fee will be applied 

Outside Syrup Demonstrations

• Outdoor demonstrations share how you can make maple syrup at home.

Other Maple Syrup Events  

• Sap Run & Syrup Stroll - hosted by the Friends of LaGrange County Parks
  • Saturday, March 8, 2025
  • Registration/Packet pick-up begins at 9:15 am 
  • Start time is 10:00 am
  • Registration information HERE!

Community Support

Maple Syrup Days is made possible by the generosity of local financial support.  Grants received from LaGrange County REMC Roundup, LaGrange County Community Foundation, and/or LaGrange County Community Visitors Bureau help us provide free puppet shows, wagon rides, and interpretive services for the public to enjoy.

Friends of LaGrange County Parks have been instrumental in the success of the pancake breakfast & syrup store and offer fire-warmed sap for tea.   

TriKappa LaGrange Chapter volunteers every year to make all the cotton candy in the syrup store. 

Maple Syrup Days is also made possible through the efforts of the many interpreters and volunteers who offer their time and talents -- from backyard syrup demonstrations, wagon ride storytellers, sugar shack hosts, serving breakfast, completing sales in the syrup store, making kettle corn, and more.

Save the date for next year!

"Maple Syrup Days" in the News:

• 04.01.2024 "Maple Syrup Field Trips..."
• 03.20.2024 "Maple Syrup Days..."
• 03.14.2024 "Maple Syrup Days..."
• 03.11.2023 "Maple Syrup Days..."
• 03.07.2023 "Grants help Parks..."
• 03.06.2023 "Maple festival..."

Follow us on social media for up-to-date information, trivia, and any schedule changes! 

See you there!

Park and Facility Rules

FeNGke 5K Fun Run & Walk

FeNGke is the phonetic spelling of funky!  Dress up in a FUNKY, family-friendly, fun costume for a chance to win a fun prize for the best overall costume!

• Pine Knob Park  2825 E. St. Rd 120, Howe, IN
• Google Directions 

• When:  August 16, 2025
• 8 am - 8:45 am: Walk-in registration and packet pickup
• Walk to the starting point - Mike Metz Trail Head
• 9:00 am: Start of 5k Fun Run & Walk (approximate)

• This is NOT a timed race!!  This is designed to be a fun family event for all who want to participate by walking, running, jogging, rolling, or any above combination.  Have fun, visit, and enjoy the scenery!
• Trails are crushed limestone and boardwalk. 
• No passing on the boardwalk unless someone steps into a rest side spot.
• Be courteous to faster runners, keep right, and allow them to pass at the first available spot.

Online Registration will be coming later this summer.

Fun award will be given to the first male and female finisher in four age divisions:

• Child: ages 10-12
• Teen: ages 13-19
• Adult: ages 20-50
• Masters: ages 51 & up

One fun award will be given to the OVERALL best, funkiest costume!!  Let's see what you got!

To become an event sponsor, contact the Park Office at 260-854-2225.

• Product Sponsor
• $100 Sponsor
• $200 Sponsor 

2024 Event Sponsors included:

• Billman Propane
• Schlemmer Hardware

LaGrange County Department of Parks & Recreation is not responsible for personal injury, loss of items/children, or death. You are participating at your own risk, knowing that boardwalks may be slippery from dew or rain and limestone trails may have loose stones, standing water (rain), and be uneven in spots. By purchasing a ticket and participating in the FeNGke 5K Fun Run/Walk at Pine Knob Park, Howe, IN, you (and your family) are hereby agreeing to NOT hold LaGrange County Department of Parks & Recreation, LaGrange County Government, Friends of LaGrange County Parks, and any employees, volunteers, associates, representatives of aforementioned, responsible for any injury, loss, or death. I know, but we have to put it in here now. Have fun!!

Trail of Lights

Thank you for a successful first season of Trail of Lights.

We are looking forward to the 2025 season. We hope to see you there.

NEW this year!

We invite you to enjoy a walk through the wooded trail, with your family and friends, to enjoy the Christmas light displays we can share with you in our first year! 

Enjoyment fee:  Free-will donation when you exit the park.  All donations received will help fund additions and improvements for next year!

• Cash or check - no change will be available.  
• A QR code will be available if you want to use a credit card. 
• You can also use THIS LINK to donate anytime you want! 

Enter Delt Church Park under the arches to the park loop - Keep right to go around the loop to the walking trail parking lot - or if you aren't going to walk the trail - continue to drive to exit the park.

If you are unable to walk the trail: there will be some lit displays and inflatables to enjoy just by driving around the short loop in the park. Park first in the ADA parking lot by Greenwood Pavilion and come in for a cookie and warm beverage by the fireplace, then continue driving around the loop to exit.

For the full experience: Park as directed in the event parking space and walk "The Trail of Lights", an approximate .6-mile loop through the woods.  It is an accessible walking trail comprised of crushed limestone and wood bridges. The walk from the end of the trail back to the parking lot is through the grassy field. 

The Greenwood Pavilion will be open as a warming station.  A fire will be roaring in the fireplace and:

• Fawn River Coffee Company will share warm coffee and hot chocolate.  Donations welcome!
• We will share cookies each night while supplies last

No Dogs Allowed for this event.

We are overwhelmed with the excited community support we have received! We are so grateful to be part of such a supportive community!

Below is a list of sponsors we have received to date. List updated December 2.

We have also received 400 cookies from Lake City Bank, LaGrange Branch, to share in the Greenwood Pavilion for December 20 & 21!  (Made by "Carey's Cakery") 

Park and Facility Rules