Located less than one mile west of downtown Greencastle, the DePauw Nature Park covers more than 500 acres of beautiful forest, fields, and abandoned quarry. The Nature Park was once the site of an active limestone quarry from 1917 to 1977.
This limestone rock began forming 350 million years ago from the remains of animals living on the bottom of an inland sea that covered this region. Thanks to a generous land donation from Hanson Aggregates, DePauw acquired the park in 2003, and has since developed nearly 9 miles of trails for walking, running, hiking and biking. The park includes a section of Big Walnut Creek, a large quarry pond, wetlands, and a unique quarry bottom habitat.
◆ The Nature Park is free and open to all visitors every
day of the year from sunrise to sunset.
◆ Trail Guides and brochures can be
picked up at the Nature Park.
◆ The Welcome Center has a viewing platform,
outdoor picnic tables, and public restrooms.
◆ There are nearly 9 miles of trails for
walking, running, hiking, and biking.
◆ The park also includes the Manning Environmental Field
Station, a site for research by DePauw faculty and staff.
◆ Take Walnut Street west from downtown Greencastle.
◆ Group tours and educational programs
are available upon request.
◆ We hope to see you there!
