Explore The Hidden Gems of Kosciusko County
Friday, July 23, 2021
Kosciusko County is full of amazing outdoor spaces, small businesses, and unique experiences to explore. We want to highlight some of the “hidden gems” within our county that you may not realize are right here waiting for you to enjoy.
Beyer Farm Trail (Warsaw)
This unique trail includes 1,800 feet of boardwalk winding through the wetlands around Pike Lake and ends near the lakeshore. The 2.2-mile trail is ideal for immersing yourself in our local wildlife and vegetation as you walk or ride a bicycle. Dogs are welcome on the trail as long as they are leashed.
Durham Lake (Pierceton)
At just 3 and a half miles from North Webster and a short drive from Pisgah Marsh, Durham Lake is one of the best options for fishing in Kosciusko County.
Common catches include largemouth bass and bluegill. During hunting season, and with the correct permits, a variety of game and waterfowl are free to catch around the lake as well.
The Village At Winona (Winona Lake)
The Village at Winona is a picturesque community nestled right on Winona Lake. You can enjoy fantastic dining options, unique shopping experiences, and one-of-a-kind community events in The Village year-round.
The Village is easy to access on foot or by cycling on the nearby greenways with large parking lots available if you choose to drive.
Lake Wawasee & Lakeside Park (Syracuse)
Lakeside Park and beach is the largest park in Syracuse and is the perfect spot to enjoy the lake, whether you’re swimming, boating, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
The park includes huge magnolia trees that provide shady areas, an open-air pavilion, playground, swimming area, and beach volleyball courts.
Dixie Sternwheeler (North Webster)
Built in 1929, the Dixie is Indiana’s oldest sternwheel excursion boat! Take a cruise on The Dixie all summer long (Memorial Day – Labor Day) for just $7.
When the Dixie first started sailing on Webster Lake in 1914, it served the community by delivering mail and groceries and providing transportation to local residents. Today, an excursion on the Dixie includes a relaxing ride full of local stories you’ll never forget.
The Old Train Depot (Pierceton)
This unique local spot has delicious food served up with a side of history. The post-Civil War train station restaurant looks over a picturesque hall complete with a fireplace, wood bar, and plenty of railroad memorabilia.
The restaurant regularly offers free beer samples, unique entree options, and more.
The Biblical Gardens (Warsaw)
These beautiful gardens are set on ¾ acres of land connected to Center Lake Park in Warsaw and include over 100 plants named in the Bible. There are eight areas of the garden to explore, including a herb and crop area, desert, brook, orchard, and meadow space.
Spending time in the gardens on your own is free, but you can also pay to sign up for a guided tour from May – September.
River Jordan Camel Dairy Farm (Milford)
Did you know that camel milk can be used to make soaps, lotions, flavored milk, laban, cheese, ice cream, yogurt, infant formula, and more? Located in Milford, River Jordan Camel Dairy is continuing to grow and flourish alongside Waubee Lake.
The dairy welcomes visitors and encourages group tours to make a reservation. Once a month, family fun days happen at the dairy, allowing visitors to meet the camels, feed them, groom them, and just experience the wholesome nature of this family-run dairy.
Blue Barn Berry Farm (Syracuse)
Blue Barn Berry Farm is a beautiful spot in Syracuse where you can pick your own berries, purchase farm-fresh seasonal produce, and host an event. If you want to pick your own blueberries and blackberries, they are in season at the farm from late June – early September.
The country market always has an impressive assortment of seasonal vegetables and fruits, as well as local honey, eggs, jellies, hams, and salsas to choose from.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re visiting Kosciusko County or you live here year-round, there are plenty of things to do and see.
Clearly Kosciusko member, the Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau, has incredible tools to help you plan your adventures on their website.
Ready to become a Clearly Kosciusko member?
