20 Attractions to Explore Near Old Rugged Cross Church

The Dowagiac Woods Nature Sanctuary is a small oasis located between M-62 and US 12. This 105-acre sanctuary offers three miles of self-guided interpretive nature trails, providing stunning views of meadows, prairies, and wetlands. Visitors to the sanctuary can explore the area's diverse wildlife including many species of birds and butterflies, as well as mammals and reptiles. Nestled within the ancient oak groves are a variety of wildflowers that are certain to wow any visitor.

Indian Lake, is a popular getaway for locals and out-of-state visitors alike. Surrounded by gorgeous outdoor beauty, the lake provides a wealth of activities for recreational enthusiasts. Fishing is a favorite pastime among visitors thanks to the annual smelt run that attracts anglers from all around each year. For those looking to enjoy a more relaxed visit, Indian Lake offers swimming, beach-going, boating, and water skiing opportunities.

Riverfront Park set along the banks of the St. Joseph River showcases stunning views of nature and idyllic waterways. Offering splash pads, playgrounds, grills, and pavilions, families can enjoy all the amenities and activities that this beautiful riverside location has to offer. An added bonus—admission is free! Whether you’re looking to have a picnic lunch or spend the day outdoors fishing in peace and quiet, Riverfront Park is sure to make your summer daydreams come true.

Fort St. Joseph was a military installation that existed in Berrien County, Michigan from 1691 to 1781. It was built by French soldiers during the French-Indian War and served as both a trading post and a military fort for many years. The fort saw much conflict throughout its existence, and faced attacks from Pontiac's Rebellion in the 1760s. After the war ended, it eventually went into disrepair and was abandoned in 1781.

The Pioneer Log Cabin Museum, is a fascinating look into the area's history. Within the museum, visitors will find one-room log cabins that are more than 200 years old, as well as several artifacts and photographs from the county's past. Additionally, the museum offers several educational programs for those looking to learn more about the county's foundation and pioneer days. After touring the cabins, visitors can explore various public spaces outside the museum.

The Brandywine Creek Nature Park provides visitors with an opportunity to connect with nature. Located just two miles from the intersection of I-94 and M-51, the park boasts eight acres of wetlands and forest, complete with a creek running through it and abundant wildlife. The park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, kayaking excursions, bird watching platforms, various educational programming and educational opportunities.

Fernwood Botanical Garden, is a stunning natural haven perfect for a day of exploration. Spanning nearly 70 acres, the lush landscape offers plenty of room to roam and take in the breathtaking nature around you. You can traverse though landscaped gardens or morning glory-draped arbors, become mesmerized by an array of seasonal blooms in our Perennial Garden or explore eight different habitats each with their own distinctive flora and fauna.

Diamond Lake, is a quiet hideaway that draws visitors from all around the area. With its sandy beaches and crystal clear water, it is the perfect destination when seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This small lake has a maximum depth of 33 feet, plenty for swimming, fishing, boating and other recreational activities. Wildlife such as ducks, geese and herons enjoy roosting along the shoreline after a hard day of fishing.

Dewey Lake is a shallow impoundment that offers an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors. Boating, fishing, and swimming are all highly popular activities on the lake due to its size and close proximity to other outdoor attractions in the region. During warmer months the surface of Dewey Lake teems with activity from anglers and sailboats alike. The shoreline is dotted with campgrounds and sandy beaches that are perfect for setting up a picnic.

Garver Lake, is a stunning freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests of oak and maple. Home to numerous species of fish, the lake's crystal-clear waters invite swimming and fishing enthusiasts alike. The lake is especially popular for its crappie fishery and serves as home to many interesting fish such as northern pike, largemouth bass, bluegill, and pumpkinseed. No motorized boats are allowed on the lake creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for canoeing or kayaking.

Madeline Bertrand County Park is a 580-acre park is beautiful year-round and offers a range of recreational activities from kayaking to biking. Visitors can rent kayaks and bicycles, enjoy an invigorating hike along the lakeside trail, or explore the rolling hillsides at their own pace. During winter months, skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing are great opportunities for outdoor fun. Guests can also gather around local campfires for a cozy evening gathering with friends.

Juno Lake is one of the most picturesque areas to be found in this region. Nestled between deciduous forests and pristine blue waters, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and spectacular views. Sporting activities such as fishing, boating, water skiing and swimming can be enjoyed here. Visitors come to delight in the abundance of wildlife native to the area, in addition to hiking trails that meander through its natural beauty.

Welcome to the LaSalle Trail, a scenic and inviting pathway that winds its way through the beautiful landscapes of Indiana. This recreational trail offers a wonderful opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts, cyclists, joggers, and nature lovers to explore the region's natural beauty and enjoy a range of recreational activities.

Donnell Lake, is a beautiful and serene lake with graceful islands, bays, and winding coves. The lake offers all kinds of recreational activities including fishing, kayaking, boating, swimming and more. The lakeshore has plenty of camping and park options to choose from while the surrounding area has a variety of restaurants, shopping centers and other attractions. During the winter months, snowmobiles are welcome as well as ice fishing.

Welcome to the University of Notre Dame, an iconic institution nestled on a picturesque campus in South Bend, Indiana. Founded in 1842, the university stands as a beacon of academic excellence, spiritual vitality, and a commitment to serving the greater good. Notre Dame is renowned for its rich traditions, unwavering values, and a vibrant community that shapes leaders, scholars, and individuals dedicated to making a positive impact on the world.

Mud Lake Bog Nature Preserve is a unique natural wonder with a vast diversity of wildlife and plant life. Spanning over 250 acres, it is the largest Atlantic white cedar swamp known in the state of Michigan. The preserve’s diverse habitats provide habitat for great blue herons, sandhill cranes, beavers, muskrats and river otters among others. Aside from aquatic mammals, the preserve is also home to several snakes and turtles as well as rare insect species like wood nymph butterflies.

Loftus Sports Center is a state-of-the-art indoor sports facility on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. It is designed to host various indoor sports and activities for the university's athletic programs.Situated in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, Loftus Sports Center is an integral part of the University of Notre Dame's athletic infrastructure.

Welcome to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a place of spiritual reverence and architectural splendor nestled on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. The Basilica has stood as an iconic symbol of faith, learning, and community. The neo-gothic church has 44 large stained glass windows and murals completed over a 17-year period by the Vatican painter Luigi Gregori. The basilica bell tower is 230 feet high, making it the tallest university chapel in America.

Welcome to the Snite Museum of Art, an enriching cultural destination situated in the heart of Indiana. Established in1980, the museum stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, educate, and ignite the imagination. It includes about 30,000 works of art that span cultures, eras, and media. The museum supports faculty teaching and research and through programs, lectures, workshops, and exhibitions. Students play a role as gallery guides and as student advisory members.

Rolfs Aquatic Center is a state-of-the-art facility designed for aquatic activities, including swimming and diving. It serves as a central venue for the University of Notre Dame's aquatic programs.Situated on the campus of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, Rolfs Aquatic Center is easily accessible to students, athletes, and the university community.