THINGS TO DO

Designed by Gene Stratton-Porter and completed in 1914, the cabin is nestled on the shores of Sylvan Lake. The vast, undeveloped forest provided a rich source of material for her nature studies, writings and photography. Furnishings in the home are arranged and maintained to reflect Stratton-Porter’s lifestyle. Much of the furniture and personal collections, including her library, are preserved at the home.

Explore the Carriage House Visitor Center to learn about moths, wildflowers, woodpeckers, carnivorous plants and other nature topics. Pull the drawers out from a large cabinet to see different types of rocks and wildlife found throughout Indiana.

Newly recognized as part of the Old-Growth Forest Network, the Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site offers 148 acres of natural beauty and biodiversity in the gardens, woods, lake shore and newly restored wetlands and prairies. The site also has over 3 miles of grass and mulched trails in the woods and along the fields, as well as a paved trail on the west portion of the site.

In her lifetime, Porter authored 12 novels, seven nature studies, three poetry books, children’s books and numerous magazine articles. With an estimated 50 million readers, her works have been translated into several foreign languages as well as Braille. Eight of her novels were produced as motion pictures.

We can all play a role in protecting and supporting Indiana’s pollinators. Bee Welcoming to Indiana’s Pollinators is a conservation and preservation effort made possible by our partners at Corteva Agriscience. The program focuses on cultivating the landscapes and gardens at each of our 12 locations across the state to support native plants and maintain diverse habitats to attract and support pollinators. When you visit, you’ll learn about the importance of protecting bees, birds and butterflies and how all Hoosiers can play a role in habitat conservation and restoration, which creates a welcoming space for these important pollinators. We can help these winged wonders by simply removing invasive species, planting pollinator-friendly plants and placing bee boxes. We hope you visit and see the important role you play and enjoy the vibrant gardens courtesy of Indiana’s pollinators.