Red Mill County Park
Red Mill County Park spans 160 acres south of Michigan City and was opened on June 29, 2002.
Within the park is a 108-acre State Dedicated Nature Preserve that includes wetlands, open water, and the headwaters of the Little Calumet River.
The trails wind through forests, meadows, and wetlands, offering views of seasonal wildflowers, wildlife, and a quiet natural setting.
The park also includes playgrounds, picnic areas, fishing access, and rentable facilities like Patricia J. Smith Hall and an Environmental Education Center.
Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Admission is free
Parking areas available near trails and park facilities.
Leashed dogs are allowed.
Services and Amenities
Facilities
Restroom facilities are available near the park’s main areas.
Information Center
The office for the La Porte County Parks Department is inside the Canada Lodge. Visitors can stop here for park information, maps, and rental inquiries during office hours.
Picnic Areas
There is a designated picnic area located near the main parking lot and playground.
Playground
There is a playground located near the parking area.
Accessibility
Paved roads and maintained trails make the park accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Environmental Education Center
The Environmental Education Center (EEC) serve as the park’s educational and event hub. The EEC is a 2-level facility seating 50 people per level, with a deck overlooking the wetlands. It is used for environmental programs, community meetings, or private rentals.
Patrica J. Smith Hall
Located within the Canada Lodge, the Patricia J. Smith Hall serves as both a community event space. The hall offers banquet seating for 88 and theatre-style seating for 120, with a full kitchen and scenic views of the park’s wetlands. It’s ideal for meetings, receptions, and group events.
Nature Preserve
This 108-acre state-dedicated preserve protects the headwaters of the Little Calumet River along with wetlands, oak woodlands, and meadows.
Boardwalks and trails invite visitors to explore diverse habitats filled with birds, wildflowers, and quiet natural beauty.
Fishing
Fishing is allowed in designated areas around the ponds and waterways connected to the Little Calumet Headwaters.
Anglers will need a valid Indiana Fishing License, as required by state law, and can enjoy a quiet spot surrounded by wetlands and wildlife.
Trails & Preserve Walks
Red Mill County Park offers more than 2 miles of trails, including the Wetland View, Cattail, and Woodland Loops. These easy routes wind through forests, meadows, and wetlands, providing peaceful views of the Little Calumet Headwaters Nature Preserve.
Park Rules:
Alcoholic beverages are not allowed
All pets must be on a leash
Do not release or remove wildlife or plants
No fireworks
No ice fishing or cross-country skiing on bodies of water
Vehicles allowed in parking areas only; no offroad vehicles permitted.
Bicycles must yield to pedestrians
Picnicking allowed only in designated areas
Charcoal fires allowed in grills only - no wood fires
No overnight camping
Boating and swimming are not allowed
A valid Indiana Fishing License is required to fish at Red Mill
Paintballs and metal detectors are not permitted
No hunting or trapping anywhere in the park
The park closes at sunset