Spring 2026 St. Joseph County Parks Activity Guide

Calendar of Events

Programs with a are FREE thanks to a generous grant from the Dr. Elmer R. Graber Youth Fund for Exploring Nature!

MArch

Sugar Camp Days

Saturday and Sunday, 8am – 3pm

March 14 and 15

Bendix Woods County Park Fee: $8/vehicle

Join us for the 53rd annual Sugar Camp Days! Watch sap cook into syrup in the Sugar House, tour the Sugar Bush, enjoy a pancake and sausage breakfast (a New Carlisle Lion’s Club fundraiser), observe Indigenous and pioneer methods of making maple syrup and maple sugar, purchase homemade baked goods made with pure maple syrup, try maple kettle corn and cotton candy, enjoy family music, and more!

Spring Equinox Sunset Hike

Friday, March 20 7:15pm – 8:15pm

Spicer Lake Nature Preserve: Visitor Center Fee: $5/person

What is the spring equinox? Discover folklore and traditions around this special day and go on a self-guided, lantern-lit sunset hike to explore what is happening in the natural world at the start of spring. Enjoy spring-themed refreshments to end the evening. Registration required by Wednesday, March 18.

Sky Dance of the Woodcock

Friday, March 27 7:30pm – 9pm

St. Patrick’s County Park: ND-LEEF Morrison Pavilion Fee: $5/person

Fondly known as Timberdoodle, Bogsucker, and Labrador Twister, the American Woodcock performs a “sky dance” to win mates. Prior to sunset, meet with a Park Naturalist to learn about the life history and lore of the woodcock. Then take a short, quiet hike to the woodcock’s staging grounds to observe this amazing spring ritual, which begins shortly after sunset. *Due to weather-dependent nature of the program, payment can be made at the program. Registration due by Wednesday, March 25.

Lopping in the Letters!

Saturday, March 28 9:30am – 12pm

Bendix Woods County Park: Nature Center Fee: Free!

The STUDEBAKER Letters that is! Help park staff trim and clear brush from the understory of these historic trees in preparation for a special event in October. Registration required by Wednesday, March 25.

Bee a Part of the Buzz!

Saturday, March 28 10am – 12pm

Bendix Woods County Park: Discovery Room Fee: $5/child

Join us to learn about the crucial role that bees play in our ecosystem. From pollinating local flowers to contributing to everyday foods that we eat, there’s a reason for the buzz around bees! We’ll be getting crafty by making bee hotels to help our small but mighty friends thrive. Registration required by Monday, March 23.

April

Easter Egg Hunt and Hike

Saturday, April 4 10am – 12pm

St. Patrick’s County Park: Hurwich Shelter Fee: $5/child

Hop on over for this fun Easter egg hunt and hike! Search for eggs along a 1-mile trail; then trade them in for trinkets and treats. A fun, accessible course will also be set up in the parking lot for children of all abilities to search for eggs. Don’t forget to bring your baskets! Registration and payment required by Monday, March 30.

Spring Break Disc Golf

Monday – Friday, April 6 – 10 10am – 7pm

Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park: Disc Golf Course

Fee: Free! *Ages 17 and under

Get the kids outside during Spring Break for a FREE round of disc golf! Enjoy the 18-hole disc golf course with varying terrain and obstacles.

Leisure Day Camp

Tuesday, April 7 10am – 4pm

St. Patrick’s County Park: Brown Barn Fee: Free! *Ages 9 -12

Explore the outdoors through exciting games and leisure activities! Campers will canoe on the pond, fish, learn the basics of orienteering, and play disc golf. Snacks will be provided, but please bring lunch. Registration required by Wednesday, April 1.

Lopping in the Letters!

Saturday, April 11 9:30am – 12pm

Bendix Woods County Park: Nature Center Fee: Free!

The STUDEBAKER Letters that is! Join us for Round Two of working in the STUDEBAKER trees landmark assisting staff with understory brush removal in preparation for a special event in October. Registration required by Wednesday, April 8.

Putt & Play

Saturday, April 11 11am – 2pm Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park: Oak Tree Shelter & Disc Golf Course Fee: $8/vehicle

Experience a playful twist on our disc golf course with a carnival-themed putt-putt day! Navigate through fun, unique obstacles to test your abilities. Enjoy tasty treats, yard games, and more! Come solo or with friends and family for a fun-filled day!

Crafternoon: Nature Tray

Saturday, April 18 1pm – 4pm

St. Patrick’s County Park: Brown Barn Fee: $25/person, *Adults 18+

Bring a bit of the outdoors inside by creating a beautiful natural specimen tray for display! Design a piece that highlights the small wonders of the natural world using thoughtfully sourced natural materials like leaves, seeds, feathers, stones, shells, and other found treasures. This relaxed, creative afternoon is perfect for adults who enjoy making meaningful nature and art. No experience needed! Materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own nature treasures to include. Registration and payment required by Wednesday, April 15.

Glow Golf!

Saturday, April 18 8pm – 10pm

Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park: Disc Golf Course

Fee: $10/person

Enjoy the park after dark with a nighttime round of disc golf! Test your skills under the stars as illuminated baskets navigate you through the obstacles. Bring your own lanterns, flashlights, or glow discs to help you conquer the course! Registration required by Monday, April 13.

Stay in touch with the St. Joseph County Parks!

Join our email list for updates, park news, and events!

For program information or to register, call Bendix Woods County Park at 574/654 - 3155.

Spring Fling for the Little Ones

Weed Wrangle

Saturday, May 2 9am – 12pm

Follow or like us on Facebook or X (Twitter) for program updates and for fun family activities in the parks.

Kids to Parks Day

Saturday, May 16 12pm – 3pm

Tuesday, April 21 10am – 12pm Bendix Woods County Park: Runnels Shelter Fee: Free! *Ages 5 and younger Spring is the perfect time to get outdoors with kids! Join us for a special morning of activities for children five and under exploring the spring woods and blooming wildflowers! Kids can also create a unique craft, hear a spring story, and sample a tasty snack. Registration required by Monday, April 20

Red Barn Rummage Sale

Saturday, April 25 8am – 1pm

St. Patrick’s County Park: Red Barn Fee: Free, *Regular gate fees in effect Shop through a barn full of treasures! This annual event is organized by the South BendElkhart Bird Alliance. Donations accepted. Drop off donations April 22 and 23 from 8am-6pm or April 24 from 8am-1pm. Sofas, cribs, and child car seats are not accepted. For more information, please contact Martha at 574-360-7983. *Park gates open at 7:30am.

Girls Ambitious about Learning Science - GALS

Bendix Woods County Park: DeNeve Shelter Fee: Free!

Help the parks protect the old-growth forest in Bendix Woods’ Nature Preserve from invasive Garlic Mustard! Learn how to identify and remove this invasive species, which crowds out native plants if left untreated. Registration required by Thursday, April 30.

Breakfast with the Eagles

Saturday, May 9 9am – 10:30am

St. Patrick’s County Park: ND-LEEF Morrison Pavilion Fee: Free!

Since 2014, ND-LEEF in St. Patrick’s County Park has been home to nesting Bald Eagles! Enjoy a light breakfast in view of the nest, learning about the lives and history of these regal birds. Following the presentation, spotting scopes and binoculars will be available to view the nest, and, perhaps, the eagles themselves! This program is free thanks to a generous sponsorship from Logistick, Inc. *Space is limited. Registration required by Wednesday, May 6.

St. Patrick’s County Park: Brown Barn Fee: Free!

Kids to Parks Day is a national day of outdoor play that connects kids and families with their public lands and green spaces. Join us for a day of hands-on activities featuring fishing, canoeing, disc golf, orienteering, and more! New this year, make seed bombs with native seeds generously provided by Stantec Native Plant Nursery!

Women in the Outdoors: Cooking 101

Saturday, May 23 10am – 2pm

Saturday, April 25 9:30am – 3:15pm St. Patrick’s County Park: Brown Barn Fee: Free!

Calling all 5th-8th grade girls interested in science and nature! Come enjoy a day of outdoor science fun with hands-on, feet-stomping activities led by women in science from our local community! Lunch and snacks will be provided. Registration required by Wednesday, April 22.

MAY

Early Birds!

Saturday, May 2 8am – 10am

Spicer Lake Nature Preserve: Parking Lot Fee: $5/person

Meet a naturalist for a birding and nature hike during the peak of spring migration! Hike the boardwalk and a trail or two, observing plants and birds we encounter. No birding experience necessary. Bring binoculars if you have them, but we will have loaners as well. Registration and payment due by Thursday, April 30.

Lopping in the Letters!

Saturday, May 9 9:30am – 12pm

Bendix Woods County Park: Nature Center Fee: Free!

The STUDEBAKER Letters that is! Join us for Round Three of working in the STUDEBAKER trees landmark! Assist staff with understory brush removal in preparation for a special event in October. Registration required by Thursday, May 7.

May the Forest Be with You!

Saturday, May 9 12pm – 3pm

St. Patrick’s County Park: Brown Barn Fee: Free! *Ages 5-12

Dress as your favorite character and celebrate all things Star Wars! Be trained as a Jedi, then head out among the trees of Endor to learn facts that help keep you safe in the forest. Galactic concessions will be available. *Activities designed for ages 5-12. Registration required by Wednesday, May 6.

Bendix Woods County Park: Studebaker Shelter Fee: $35/person, *Adults 18 and older Build confidence cooking outdoors in this hands-on workshop designed for women of all experience levels. Learn to cook using fire and coals, Dutch ovens, mini gas and wood stoves, hobo and soda can stoves, and even a solar pizza box! Perfect for hiking, camping, scouting, or backyard adventures, this class covers simple meals, safety, and choosing the right method for your outing. “Make your own lunch” included! Registration required by Wednesday, May 13.

Nature Photo Scavenger Hunt

Sunday, May 24 10am – 5pm

St. Patrick’s, Ferrettie/Baugo Creek, & Bendix Woods County Parks Fee: Free!

Come celebrate National Scavenger Hunt Day! Head out on the trails at St. Patrick’s, Ferrettie/ Baugo Creek, or Bendix Woods County Parks in search of signs of spring. Share your favorite photo by tagging the Parks’ Facebook Page or email your photo to mslattery@sjcparks.org.

Pick up a scavenger hunt list at the Park Gatehouse when entering the park.

Volunteer at the Parks!

Become a Volunteer Bluebird Monitor!

Are you looking for ways to volunteer at the parks?

Do you enjoy taking short hikes outdoors? Are you passionate about birds and want to learn more about bluebirds? We have the perfect volunteer task for you!

Become an official bluebird monitor at St. Patrick’s County Park! Help us monitor the Bluebird trail, recording the progression from nest building and egg-laying to hatching and fledging.

For more information, contact Michaele at mklingerman@sjcparks.org.

Volunteers and Donors

Your support and contributions make a valuable difference in helping us achieve our goals! If you would like to become a volunteer or host a volunteer workday for your business or organization, visit sjcparks.org.

Volunteers: *Nikki Rector • John and Alice Bentley • Debra McClain • Jamie Robbins • Sally and Lucy Bawtinheimer and friend Dino Don • IDEM volunteers • Natalie and Naomi Alcoser • Mario Aparicio and friend • Gabbie Garza • Ben Beauchamp • Nelson Betanco Jeff McGowan • Alivia Boyd • Noah Dickerson • Maggie Dorn • Zoey Dryden • Promise Unyime Ede • Hannah Foster • Alivia Gantert Gary and Nancy Beall • Jaycee Gonzalez • Mercedez Gonzalez • Emma Goodling • Jayden Hannah • Angelo Hardy • Adeline Hawkins Jacob Heines • Sierra Johnson • Makena Herschberger • Adelaide Ann Hixon • Brooklyn Mania • Sarah Martin • Annalyse Medina

Thankyou

...in preparation for the 2026 Maple Syrup Season at Bendix Woods County Park!

Nikki Rector weaves and hangs maple sap tubing through trees in the Sugar Bush...

Sandra Patriz • Aiden Peterson • Brandy Wanbaugh • Sofia Rosales • Rebekah Rose • Troy Reyes • Jasmine Vegas Salazar • Chris Standlee Sarah, Ryan, Finn, Jude, Elijah, & Norah Skinner • Taylor Swords • Evelyn Teske • David Vega • Abella Powell • Kayla Witkowski • Steve Sass Bugs Keolisack • Kirsten Sharpe • Tom Davidson • Marilyn Cook • Alexander Rethlake • Ben Reinoehl • Steve Hummer • Dan and Cody Biggs Bonin Family • Marty Brennan • Brian Rowe • Dean Skaggs • Costas Hatzipavlides • James Rutkowski • Todd and James Eliott • Yaretzi Ortiz William Wolter • Greg Turner • Amanda Dewald • Tracy Slattery • Charlotte Deward • Tatym Goddard • Donors: Janet Wallar

Have a passion for parks? Join the Friends of Bendix Woods and Spicer Lake or the St. Joseph County Parks Foundation! For more information, call 574/277 - 4828.

Rent a Facility or Shelter

St. Joseph County Parks offers a variety of facilities and picnic sites available for rent year-round. Our enclosed buildings provide the perfect setting for holiday gatherings, celebrations, and special events!

For availability, or to make a reservation, please call 574/277 - 4828.

Board: Felix Bueno,

Room in Baugo Station at Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park

Bauer Shelter at Bendix Woods County Park

Spring Leisure Activities

Canoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard on the St. Joseph River!

*Operation is weather and river conditions permitting.

When: Saturday – Sunday and Holidays:

Beginning May 23 through October 4

Site: St. Patrick’s County Park: Brown Barn

Time: 11am – 4pm

Fee: *Gate fee in effect Weekends & and Holidays

*All rentals require a $50 refundable deposit.

Short Trip - 4 miles (3 hours)

Single Kayak

Canoe or Double Kayak

Stand-up Paddleboard

$30

$40

$30

Long Trip - 10 miles (5 hours)

Single Kayak

Canoe or Double Kayak

$40

$50

Rental includes vessel, paddles, required life jackets, and shuttle service. Renters must be at least 18 years old and present a valid picture ID. Adults must accompany anyone under 18. Alcoholic beverages, smoking, and vaping are not allowed in county vessels. This activity is not recommended for children 3 years of age and younger. No pets allowed.

New to paddling? Beginners and families may use the pond outside of the Brown Barn for $7/hour for safe practice and fun!

Have your own vessel? We provide shuttle service for $15/vessel during normal shuttling operations.

Disc Golf

When: Open daily, Pro Shop hours vary

Site: Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park

Pro Shop located in Gatehouse

Time: Course open 10am – Park Close

Fee: Daily pass: $4/adult

$3/youth (age 15 and under)

Annual pass: $40/adult

$20/youth (age 15 and under)

Combo disc golf/gate pass: $60

Tee off year-round on our 18-hole course! Perfect for players of all skill levels, the varying terrain and obstacles will offer challenge and enjoyment to seasoned pros and newcomers alike!

Group Canoe/Kayak Rental at St. Patrick’s County Park

St. Patrick’s County Park offers pre-registered group canoe or kayak trips Wednesday – Sunday for groups of 10 or more vessels. Call ahead at least 10 days in advance to book your group canoe/kayak outing. To check availability or to schedule your group, call 574/654 - 3155.

Free Fishing Days

When: May 10, June 6 and 7, & September 26

Site: St. Patrick’s and Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Parks

Time: Available during park hours

Fee: Free gate fee for those fishing, just show us your poles!

These days only, Indiana residents may fish without a state fishing license in Indiana waters. Free Fishing Days were created by the Indiana General Assembly and are designated each year by the Department of Natural Resources to promote angling as a recreational activity.

Canoe and Kayak on Baugo Creek!

*Operation is weather and creek conditions permitting.

When: Fridays Only:

Beginning May 22 through October 2

Site: Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park: Gatehouse

Time: 11am – 4pm

Fee: *Gate fee in effect

*All rentals require a $50 refundable deposit.

Rental Limit - 2 hours

Single Kayak

$30

Canoe or Double Kayak $40

Rental includes vessel, paddles, and required life jackets. Renters must be at least 18 years old and present a valid picture ID. Adults must accompany anyone under 18. Alcoholic beverages, smoking, and vaping are not allowed in county vessels. This activity is not recommended for children 3 years of age and younger. No pets allowed.

Journaling Club

Saturdays, 10am – 1pm

March 28: St. Patrick’s County Park: Brown Barn

April 25: Bendix Woods County Park: Runnels Shelter

May 30: Spicer Lake Nature Preserve: Visitor Center

Fee: $5 cash donation requested per meeting

Join a naturalist in a creative space for adults (18+) who love exploring the outdoors and capturing its beauty through art and words. This beginner-friendly club is all about slowing down, observing nature, and connecting with other nature lovers. Bring your favorite journal, curiosity, and a sense of wonder – we’ll provide inspiration using writing prompts and tips on how to use mixed media such as pencil, paint, photography, and collage.

Activity Guide Sponsor Nature

Outdoor Adventures Summer Nature Camps

Come be a part of Outdoor Adventures Summer Nature Camps at St. Patrick’s County Park! Bring on the summer and outdoor fun by hiking, paddling, and splashing your way into natural fun! Enjoy the many health benefits of spending time outdoors and experience new adventures every day.

Seven camps are offered for children entering Kindergarten through 8th grade!

Wildlife Detectives

June 22 – June 26 • Ages 5 - 6

Treasure Hunters

July 27 – July 31 • Ages 6 - 7

Fun is Natural!

July 20 – July 24 • Ages 8 - 9

Junior Indiana Master Naturalist

July 6 – July 10 • Ages 9 - 12

Science Camp

July 13 – July 17 • Ages 10 - 11

Outdoor Skills

Wednesday, June 17 • Ages 11 - 14

Escape Room: The Eradicator Tuesday, June 30 • Ages 11 - 14

Registration for all Summer Nature Camps begins Wednesday, April 1, 2026. For more information, or to request registration materials, please call 574/654-3155, or visit sjcparks.org.

Outdoor Adventures Summer Nature Day Camps are sponsored in part by the Dr. Elmer R. Graber Youth Fund for Exploring Nature.

Park Hours & Gate Fees

Park Hours

Bendix Woods, St. Patrick’s, and Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Parks:

January 1 – March 7: 10am – 5:30pm March 8 – April 4: 10am – 7pm

April 5 – May 23: 10am – 8:30pm May 24 – August 1: 10am – 9pm

Spicer Lake Nature Preserve opens one hour later and closes one hour earlier than the above times. No entrance fee.

Special Events

Note: Fees for special events or programs may be different from, or in addition to, park entrance fees. Consult the activity listing in this guide or visit sjcparks.org for more information.

Bendix Woods County Park

56960 Timothy Rd. • New Carlisle, IN 46552

Anderson Trail County Park 10761 Anderson Rd. • Granger, IN 46530

Jasinski Public Access Site

Crumstown Hwy. • North Liberty, IN 46554

Park Entrance Fees

Gate fees in effect on weekends and holidays April-October.

$4/in-county vehicle

$5/out-of-county vehicle

$8/vehicle at special events

*Gate fees will also be collected on Fridays at St. Patrick’s and Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Parks from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Park & Trail Locations

Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park

57057 Ash Rd. • Osceola, IN 46561

Spicer Lake Nature Preserve 50840 County Line Rd. • New Carlisle, IN 46552

Chamberlain Lake Nature Preserve 58111 Crumstown Hwy. • South Bend, IN 46619

St. Patrick’s County Park

50651 Laurel Rd. • South Bend, IN 46637

Beverly D. Crone Restoration Area Jackson Rd./Linden Rd. • South Bend, IN 46614

LaSalle Trail Roseland, IN to the Michigan State Line

Access to All St. Joseph County Parks’ programs and facilities are available to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, limited English proficiency, sex, age, or disability. Reasonable accommodations may be requested in advance to provide participation in desired programs and activities. Persons needing services, accommodations, and support for accessibility, or for complaints, please call the County Parks’ office: 574 / 277 - 4828.

• St. Joseph County Parks are smoke-free. •