Schmidt Maple Woods State Natural Area

The western part of Clark County is heavily forested with a nice mix of prairie, forests, scrub and hardwood stands. It offers the traveler a habitat that attracts a variety of birds and wildlife. Schmidt Maple Woods is a gently rolling, wooded, 87-acre property that contains one of the best southern mesic forests in this part of the state. Sugar maple, basswood, hickory, elm and ash trees offer habitat to songbirds and wildlife. Trillium, violets and wild geraniums bloom in the spring, while the sugar maple leaves turn brilliant colors in the fall. Look for Common Ravens, White-throated Sparrows and numerous species of warblers, woodpeckers, and thrushes as you walk the area.

Directions: From Stanley, go south 1.5 miles on Cty NN, then east 1 mile on Cty N, then south 1.25 miles on Copenhaver Avenue to the northeast corner of the property.

Signature species: Indigo Bunting, Scarlet Tanager & Chestnut-sided Warbler

Rare species: Red-shouldered Hawk & Winter Wren

Seasonality: Open all year.

Parking: Park on the roadside.