American bison roam in a 20-acre exhibit at Ouabache State Park.
North American bison don't roam at Ouabache (pronounced Wabash) State Park. They just sort of lie around a lot and stare back at people who stare at them.
I can't think of a more delightful way to spend an afternoon. That is, staring at enormous creatures that appear to be something of a Frankenstein-cross of furry European cows and wooly mammoths.
And my biases are exactly why it's still important to see bison in Indiana, to reflect on what once roamed across major territory in our state and why they are no longer naturally occurring.
Sure you can visit buffalo farms all across the Midwest, but at Ouabache State Park in Bluffton, you'll see animals bred for display and education, not just the table.
The park has much more going for it than the 14 animals, which it displays to interpret early Indiana history.
Water forms the marvelous middle of the park, which features family camping, a swimming pool and a lace work of bicycle trails that go in and out of the park to connect with the town.
Be sure to visit the nature center and bring along a fishing pole for Kunkel Lake, which features good fishing for bluegill and redear, largemouth bass and catfish.
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