BEDFORD – This month’s Park Program, on Tuesday, November 26 at 6:00 p.m. at the Otis Park Bath House, will be a virtual tour of fun outdoor places or things to do in Jackson and Washington Counties.
The program is led by Janet Eger, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, and Teena Ligman, retired from the US Forest Service. They have long enjoyed outdoor opportunities in the area.
“You don’t have to go far or spend much money to see something new or do something fun,” said Eger. She noted they looked for outdoor things that individuals or families could do in a day, close to home, that would provide good memories, and included ideas people may not have known were close by.
Ligman agreed, saying people don’t have to go far to visit some exceptional landmarks.
For example, the Medora and Shieldstown Covered Bridges are both in excellent condition. Designed by the same man, they have both held up well over time. The Medora Covered Bridge was built in 1875 and was the longest-covered bridge in the United States. It is still in excellent condition and has a beautiful picnic area beside it.
Eger noted that there are several natural areas in the two counties, each unique, that people can visit. Each one has short trails and something special to see, as well as the Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, which is an amazing place to see birds and amphibians and learn about wetlands.
Both women agree that the Blue River and its canoeing opportunities are perfect for families, along with several recreational lakes in these counties. For hikers and backpackers, the Knobstone Trail and Jackson Washington State Forest trails offer a variety of hiking, mountain biking, and backpacking opportunities.
Several other places, from historic sites to outdoor museums, will be featured as recommended sites.
Please RSVP for the program by November 25, so we know how many people to expect by calling 812-275-5692 or emailing aray@bedford.in.us.
