Beverly D. Crone Restoration Area

From Landfill to Living Landscape

Tucked away at the intersection of Jackson and Linden Roads just west of U.S. 31 in St. Joseph County, Indiana, the Beverly D. Crone Restoration Area tells a remarkable story of renewal. This 111-acre park was once a landfill but has been thoughtfully transformed into a thriving natural space. Today, as you wander its rolling hills, you'd hardly guess its former purpose - only the occasional vent or small fenced area hints at its past. The park operates under the joint stewardship of the Department of Public Works and St. Joseph County Parks, creating a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

A Bird Watcher's Haven

If you're into birding, you're in for a treat. This park has earned its place on the Indiana Birding Trail, drawing bird enthusiasts particularly during late spring and summer. This is an important nesting site for several endangered bird species. Listen carefully as you explore, and you might hear the distinctive calls of red-winged blackbirds or spot eastern meadowlarks with their bright yellow bellies. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Henslow's sparrows hiding among the tall grasses. The area is also one of the few places where you can reliably find bobolinks, which might be a nice addition to your life list.

Trails That Welcome Everyone

The backbone of the park is its network of wide, hard-packed gravel paths that wind through the natural landscape. These trails are more like gravel roads than typical park paths, offering plenty of room for walking, jogging, or cycling side by side with friends. While mostly gentle, the rolling hills add just enough variation to keep things interesting without being overly challenging. No matter if you're out for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous workout, these paths accommodate all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.

Prairie Landscape

Unlike many of the wooded parks in the region, this restoration area showcases the beauty of grassland habitat. The tall grasses not only create a distinctive landscape but also provide essential cover for the diverse bird population that calls this place home. It's best to stick to the designated trails, however - venturing into the grassy areas might put you in tick territory, especially during warmer months. The open expanse of the prairie offers unobstructed views and a different kind of natural experience than you might be used to.

Before You Visit

This is a no-frills natural area, so come prepared. There are no restrooms on site, and parking is somewhat limited (though you'll rarely have trouble finding a spot given the park's peaceful, uncrowded nature). You're welcome to bring your four-legged friends, but remember to keep them leashed at all times to protect both the wildlife and the habitat. Don't forget to bring water for yourself and your pets, especially on warmer days.

Looking Ahead

The story of Beverly D. Crone Restoration Area continues to unfold. A master plan for 2019-2023 outlines the vision for this evolving natural haven, suggesting even better things to come for this remarkable example of environmental restoration.