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Parks #2 in West Lafayette, Indiana

Prophetstown State Park

4.7 · 2,075 reviews
Educational and serene landscape
Prophetstown State Park, Park Entrance: 5545 Swisher Road Office:, 4112 IN-225, West Lafayette, IN 47906, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park commemorates the 1811 Battle of Tippecanoe, which took place in the immediate vicinity.

2

The Farm at Prophetstown is an accredited living history museum that focuses on early 20th-century agrarian life.

3

The park occupies the site of a historic Shawnee village that was a major center for Native American resistance in the early 1800s.

4

Restoration efforts have successfully reintroduced native tallgrass prairie species, which were once dominant in the region.

5

The site includes over 130 species of birds, making it a significant location for ornithological observation.

Overview

Prophetstown State Park is a 2,200-acre site situated at the confluence of the Wabash and Tippecanoe Rivers. It features a 1920s-era working farm, known as The Farm at Prophetstown, which demonstrates period-appropriate agriculture and livestock management. The park hosts the Native American Village, an interpretive site showcasing the history and culture of the Eastern Woodland tribes. Habitats within the park include restored tallgrass prairie, riparian wetlands, and oak-hickory forests. Miles of paved and primitive trails accommodate hiking and cycling. The park is named after the historic Shawnee settlement of Prophetstown, once led by the spiritual leader Tenskwatawa. A modern campground with full utility hookups is located on-site. The park serves as an educational center for Indiana's agricultural history and natural ecosystem restoration.

Photo spot

The elevated observation deck overlooking the restored tallgrass prairie during the 'golden hour'.

Insider tips

Bring sun protection, as the expansive prairie areas offer very little natural shade during the summer.

Check the park map before entering, as the trail network connects to the adjacent Tippecanoe River State Park boundaries.

Visit during the early spring or late autumn to witness bird migration patterns along the river corridors.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to hike the prairie trails in mid-day summer without sufficient water and head protection.

Good to know

The Farm at Prophetstown and the Native American Village have seasonal staffing; verify site-specific availability before arrival.

Etiquette

Maintain distance from livestock at The Farm and adhere to 'leave no trace' principles on all hiking trails.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early fall, when temperatures are mild enough to comfortably explore both the farm and the hiking trails.
Address
Prophetstown State Park, Park Entrance: 5545 Swisher Road Office:, 4112 IN-225, West Lafayette, IN 47906, United States
40.497, -86.842
Get directions
Details
Key exhibits1920s working farm and Native American village
Shade & rest areasLimited shade in prairie; pavilions available at picnic zones

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early fall, when temperatures are mild enough to comfortably explore both the farm and the hiking trails..

The elevated observation deck overlooking the restored tallgrass prairie during the 'golden hour'.

Close by you'll find Prophetstown Aquatic Center, Tippecanoe Battlefield Museum, Tippecanoe County Amphitheater Park.