Mounds State Trail Wildlife Area offers a natural refuge featuring diverse habitats adjacent to Mounds State Park, ideal for hiking, wildlife observation, and scenic outdoor experiences.
Mounds State Trail Wildlife Area is located in Madison County, Indiana, adjacent to the well-known Mounds State Park. Spanning a range of terrain including upland forests, wetlands, and riparian zones along the White River, the area provides important habitat for a variety of native flora and fauna. The wildlife area serves as a critical corridor for migratory birds and supports populations of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and waterfowl. Its geography includes gently rolling hills and open meadows interspersed with mature hardwood forest. The area is managed to promote habitat diversity and facilitate public enjoyment through low-impact recreational activities. Visitors often take advantage of the trail connections that extend from Mounds State Park to explore the natural environment more fully, encountering peaceful streams, quiet forest groves, and birdwatching opportunities. The Mounds State Trail Wildlife Area also preserves part of the region’s cultural heritage, lying near prehistoric earthworks constructed by the Adena culture, which offers historical context to the landscape. Outdoor activities commonly enjoyed here include hiking, birding, photography, and seasonal wildlife viewing. The quiet natural setting and proximity to the park make it a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking away-from-the-crowds experiences to connect with Indiana’s natural ecosystems and cultural past.
Close access to the historical Adena Indian mound earthworks in Mounds State Park
Diverse bird species habitat along the White River corridor
Quiet loop trails for moderate hiking and wildlife photography
Seasonal wildflower displays in forested and meadow areas
Ancient earthworks created by the Adena culture, located nearby within Mounds State Park, providing important archaeological and cultural context.
A vital riparian habitat supporting a range of bird species and aquatic life along the riverbanks.
Mature forest stands offering habitat diversity and scenic trail experiences throughout the wildlife area.