The Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area encompasses 3,546 acres of land and 650 acres of lakes and water impoundments. From seasonal birdwatching to designated trails, nature is the focus here; elsewhere in Kosciusko County, you’ll also find forests, wetlands and prairie plantings.
Water, Woods and Birds
The Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area attracts ospreys, bald eagles, great blue and green herons, sandhill cranes and migratory waterfowl. The species you can see vary with the seasons. The area’s designated trails include the Greider Woods Nature Trail and the Pisgah Marsh Boardwalk. The area’s size and biodiversity offer nature enthusiasts two distinct points of interest: the extent of its land and water, and the birdlife it attracts.
At Wildwood Nature Preserve, a high-quality oak-hickory forest shapes the hilly terrain. Several trails lead through woods, wetlands and prairie plantings. Oppenheim Woods Nature Preserve offers a different focus: its wooded hills feature wildflowers and migratory birds that are especially noticeable in April and May. This is a specific time of year to keep in mind when planning your visit; at Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area, by contrast, birdwatching opportunities depend on the season.
History, Craftsmanship and Unusual Sights
The Pound Store Museum in Oswego is the oldest commercial building in Kosciusko County. Its ground floor recreates the atmosphere and appearance of the original Pound General Store. The Bell Aircraft Museum’s exhibits include a replica of Lawrence Bell’s personal museum and images of Bell Aircraft from World War II. These may change.
A historical marker honoring Lawrence D. Bell in Mentone describes him as one of America’s most prominent aviation pioneers and notes that he founded Bell Aircraft Corporation in Buffalo, New York, in 1935. The Mentone Egg is a very different kind of landmark: the Indiana Destination Development Corporation describes it as the world’s largest egg. It weighs 3,000 pounds and is about 10 feet tall.
The Village at Winona also offers different reasons to visit. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places; it also has trails and a greenway connection for biking and hiking. According to its description, the events calendar includes numerous concerts, performances and festivals throughout the year. History, outdoor recreation and cultural events are distinct aspects of the experience here.
In downtown Warsaw, Warsaw Cut Glass has been based in its original building since 1911. It is one of the last businesses in the U.S. to cut glass and offer hand-cut crystal gifts. Glass-cutting demonstrations are available by appointment; schedule a time in advance.
Gardens, Agriculture and Local Products
The Warsaw Biblical Gardens feature more than one hundred plants mentioned in the Bible across about three-quarters of an acre. Guided tours are offered from May 15 through September 15. As this is a seasonal offering, check the specific dates before you travel.
The Kosciusko County Community Fair holds an annual fair that celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage and gives young people hands-on experience. For a taste of local food, visit the Farmers Market at Winona at Miller Sunset Manor. Offerings include fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs, microgreens, mushrooms, cheese and honey, as well as baked goods, jams, coffee, sweets and Indian food.
Planning Your Stay
The Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau is the official resource for visitor information—for vacationers, people visiting friends and relatives, and business and meeting travelers. Brochures and maps covering Blue Spaces, Trail Spaces, Wild Spaces, Play Spaces and Art Spaces offer themed ideas for further planning.
The Kosciusko Area Bus Service (KABS) provides public transportation throughout Kosciusko County, including demand-response and deviated-route services. The Lake City Loop operates on a schedule in Warsaw and Winona Lake, serving designated stops. Limited pickups and drop-offs off the route are available by request in advance. Check the schedule for your trip and request off-route service in good time.
Discover more destinations: Warsaw, Vanderburgh, Clark, Morgan, Warren County, Henry County, Lawrence, Cass County.
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