Individuals and/or families have the opportunity to engage in these nature-based events annually. These include topics like seed saving, hiking, outdoor family activities and more.

Visit our events page to see all of Merry Lea’s upcoming events and to register.

Michiana Regional Seed Swap

Gardeners, farmers and plant enthusiasts in the Michiana region gather
to exchange or acquire seeds, learn about seed saving techniques and gardening practices, and network with other plant growers. Merry Lea hosts this annual educational event, intended for everyone: from first-time gardeners to experienced growers.

When: Late January

You can access the recorded presentations and database to swap seeds with others from the 2021 virtual event by clicking the button.                           Photo courtesy of Dillon Hershey

Nature Fest

Get outside and celebrate the beautiful spring weather with the whole
family. This fun-filled festival hosts a variety of activities that happen over two days during a weekend. There is canoeing, camping, campfires, hikes and so much more!

When: Mid-May

Spring Break Day Camp

Looking for a way to keep your student entertained during spring break?
Merry Lea hosts a Spring Break Day Camp for students in K-5th grades. Students participate in hands-on activities grouped by age for fun, outdoor exploration.

When: First full week of April

Conservation Leadership School

Merry Lea hosts high school students for a week focused on exploring
what it means to conserve natural resources in northern Indiana. The week includes workshops, activities, and student-developed projects for developing communication and leadership skills. Participants explore our 1200-acre nature preserve through hiking, canoeing, camping, swimming, dipping for macroinvertebrates, banding birds, and more.

When: Early – Mid June

Nature Play Day

Indiana Children and Nature Network (ICAN) hosts an annual, statewide
Nature Play Day designed to get people outside. Join Merry Lea at this free, family-friendly event for guided and self-guided activities to choose from. Dip for tadpoles, create a nature craft, go on a hike, work on a scavenger hunt, and much more. Come explore the natural world in your own backyard!

When: Mid-June

Luckey’s Landing Community Picnic

Merry Lea staff and Wolf Lake residents enjoy an evening by the lake
hiking, canoeing, and enjoying snacks. This event brings the local community together for a fun, family-friendly summer evening.

When: Early – Mid August

Enchanted Forest

Join Merry Lea for an enchanting night hike where trail guides lead family
groups for one-hour hikes by lantern light to meet real “live” animals on our trails. Costumed staff and volunteers talk about life as a native Indiana animal, discussing their favorite foods, fears, and habitats and answer questions children and adults may have. This family-friendly evening is a great alternative to Halloween events too scary for young children.

When: Late October