Gibson Woods Nature Preserve

sassafras leaves color variety 2
fall color on trail
Northern Cardinal
fungus 7

Gibson Woods Nature Preserve is a 179-acre state dedicated nature preserve. The park is notable for its unique and globally rare dune and swale ecosystem. Higher dunes alternate with wetland and swales and provide a habitat to many rare and endangered species of flora. In order to preserve and protect this park, we ask you to leave pets at home as well as follow all other rules.

Address6201 Parrish Avenue
Hammond, IN 46323

Hours

  • Current Park Hours (November-February)
    • 9AM - 4PM, Tuesdays-Sundays
    • Closed Mondays and Holidays
  • The nature center is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, Noon-4PM
  • Closed annually for the winter holidays
    • 2023 Closing:               Saturday, December 23, 2023- Monday, January 1, 2024.
  • Private Wildlife Room reservations available select Wednesdays & Fridays 

Phone

nature center phone: 219-844-3188

nature preserve rules

While owned and operated by the Lake County Parks, Gibson Woods Nature Preserve is a state-dedicated preserve due to its rare plants and animals, some listed as endangered. Because of the rarity of this site, please observe the following rules during your visit:

  • stay on designated trails. For seasonal trail closures and accessibility, please click here for the map. NO CURRENT CLOSURES
  • leave pets at home
  • take only pictures, leave only footprints
  • trails are off-limits to bikes, motorized and other non-motorized vehicles


Features of Gibson Woods

  • Nature center
  • Wildlife viewing room ***limited private reservations available
  • Gift shop
  • Hiking trails
  • Interpretive staff
  • School and group tours
  • Bird, insect, and wildlife hotspot
  • Toilets (flush)

Gibson Woods Events

Related Documents

  1. Gibson Woods fact sheet
  2. Gibson Woods Nature Preserve trail map