Global Ambassador Stories

Nearby Walking Trails

Story by Nokwanda Grava
June 24, 2021

One of my favorite ways to relax is to spend some time in nature. I always find that taking time away from my academic responsibilities is important in helping me recuperate, and I find that spending time in nature is a great way to help with stress. Indiana has beautiful parks all across the state, and there are quite a few options very close to Purdue’s campus.

Here is a list of my three favorite nearby parks:

1. Celery Bog Nature Reserve

Just north of campus is the Celery Bog Nature Reserve, which is a 105-acre wetland park with many trails. Close to campus, this is a great place to walk, run, or even bike. Celery Bog Nature Reserve is home to over 120 different species, including turtles, rabbits, birds, and coyotes. This park is free to the public!

Location: 1620 Lindberg Rd, West Lafayette, IN 47906

2. Happy Hollow Park

Happy Hollow Park is another favorite of mine, and this park has trails through the woods, as well as picnic areas. This is a very family-friendly park, and it’s a great place to meet up with friends. This park is also free to the public.

Location: 1301 Happy Hollow Rd, West Lafayette, IN 47906

3. Prophetstown State Park

A short drive from campus is Prophetstown State Park, which has miles of trails. On top of being rich with history, Prophetstown has camping, a farm, and an aquatic center that is open seasonally. As a state park, Prophetstown admission is $8 in-state and $10 for out-of-state license plates.

Location: 5545 Swisher Road Office: 4112 E, IN-225, West Lafayette, IN 47906

Prophetstown State Park


The views of the author are not necessarily those of the Grad School or Purdue University.