A Morning at Bradt Natural Area
With the early morning August sun rising over the grassland prairie, the sound of American goldfinches flying nearby and red-winged blackbirds calling in the distance is a welcome greeting. With camera in hand, we set off for a peaceful morning of exploring.
The Bradt Natural Area lies just a short drive on U.S. 50 from the entrance to Versailles State Park. With 83 acres of wetland, grassland, and woodland, the property provides important wildlife habitat and many opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Indiana’s outdoors.
The Bradt family settled on the property, which was then an existing farm, in the early 1900s. In 2001, the property became part of the state park and began being managed as wildlife habitat.
In 2019, a partnership of DNR, the INRF, the Ripley County Community Foundation, the Friends of Versailles, and friends of the Bradt family allowed the property to open to the public with a trail system, restored wetland, and many meadows. Now, because of the tireless efforts of DNR staff, the property teems with native plants, pollinators, and wildlife.
“The Bradt Natural Area has become a unique and valuable extension of Versailles State Park,” said Garrett McAdams, the park’s property manager. “Its development and management not only play an important role for the resources but also create opportunities for new visitors and interpretive programs – welcoming everyone from school groups to those looking for a peaceful morning walking before work. We are excited to watch as the Bradt Natural Area continues to support the mission of Indiana State Parks.”
Just a few steps away from Bradt’s parking lot, the sound of summer birds waking up changes as you enter the wooded part of the property. On this early morning, with the forest towering above the gravel path, the only things breaking the silence were the occasional sounds of a pileated woodpecker on a decaying tree and the call and response of a pair of Eastern towhees.
After a winding walk through the woods, stepping back out into the sunshine as you near the wetland frequently provides wildlife watching opportunities. Turkey, deer, and small mammals such as squirrel and rabbit are often in the area.
On a lucky day, you may see beaver, muskrat, and wading birds at the wetland, but on our sunny morning, only beautiful views and a cool breeze greeted us. For admirers of smaller flora and fauna, a slow walk through the adjacent prairie provides views of countless insects, plants, and flowers before you make your way back to the parking lot.
While the property is relatively small compared to Indiana’s second largest state park, you can enjoy this southern Indiana gem for hours as you take in the natural world. If you still seek more adventure, head down the road to the park, where fishing, kayaking, and hiking opportunities abound.
We are honored to play a part in supporting Bradt Natural Area and countless other DNR properties around the state. If you would like to join us in celebrating and preserving Indiana’s natural legacy by acquiring and restoring other special places, please donate today.
Find even more DNR properties and recreation opportunities at IN.gov/dnr/places-to-go.