Groups at Deep River County Park

Deep River Bridge

John Wood settled along Deep River in the 1830's he not only started one of Indiana's first industries, but also shaped the industrial future of Lake County. Explore the area he called home, and see the kind of work that was done throughout the 19th century. 

Additionally, Deep River is also home to the popular Maple Syrup Time. As winter fades into spring, Maple Trees begin to produce sap perfect for making delicious Maple Syrup. Join us each March to learn all about the process! 

Grist Mill Tour


  • Dates: Tuesday to Friday (May, September, or October)
  • Ages: Open to all ages, but designed for students 1st grade and above
  • Price: $5 per person
  • Group size: 15 person minimum and 75 person maximum
  • Tour Time: Tours are 1 and 1/2 hour long. We recommend starting at 10 AM, but will adjust to fit your schedule
  • Reservation: Call the park at 219-947-1958 to book!

At Wood’s Mill learn about water power, grist mills, and John Wood. The miller will demonstrate how cornmeal is still ground. Then, through hands-on activities like shelling corn, sifting cornmeal and tying a miller’s knot, learn how technology and the grist mill made life easier on people of the past. 

*NEW* Cornmeal in the Making


  • Dates : Select Weekdays in October
  • Grades:1st-adults
  • Price: $10 per person, children and adults (includes a cornbread sample!)
  • Tour lasts 2 hours and includes inside and outside elements around the park. (Please dress for weather conditions)
  • Program design: For 1st grade through adults. Great for groups with various ages
  • Reservation Restrictions: 15 person minimum, 120 maximum.
  • Deposit: $100 deposit required at least 2 weeks in advance. 
  • Reserve: Call 219-769-7275 to reserve your group starting in January. You don’t want to miss this exciting new experience!

Learn how corn is ground in Wood’s Historic Grist Mill as you explore the journey from kernel to cornbread. Step inside the mill to see the stones in action, hear the story of how early settlers processed their grain, and understand the work behind this everyday staple. Students will sample fresh cornbread and even try their hand at making butter to complete the experience. This hands-on visit is a perfect way to discover a traditional skill that has fed communities for generations.



Maple Syrup Time


  • Dates : A variety of weekdays available mid-March
  • Grades:1st-adults
  • Price: $10 per person, children and adults (includes maple syrup sample)
  • Tour lasts 2 hours and includes inside and outside elements around the park. (Please dress for weather conditions)
  • Program design: For 1st grade through adults. Great for groups with various ages
  • Reservation Restrictions: 15 person minimum, 120 maximum.
  • Deposit: $50 deposit required at least 2 weeks in advance. 
  • Reserve: Call 219-769-7275 to reserve your group starting in January. You don’t want to miss this popular springtime educational experience.

Learn how trees are tapped, sap is collected, and how sap is boiled at our Sugar Shack to make a sweet syrup.  Stop by the historic grist mill and explore this 150-year-old building while you taste some of the maple syrup being made. This is a perfect event to learn about this spring tradition we have.

Maple Syrup Monkeys program is available for preschool groups!