Bluhm County Park
Bluhm County Park, located just west of Westville, covers about 96 acres of woodlands, wetlands, prairie, and open meadows.
Donated to La Porte County Parks in 1992 by Gayle and Lucille Bluhm, it’s become one of the area’s best spots for peaceful walks and nature exploration.
Visitors will find paved and unpaved trails, an inclusive playground, picnic shelters, mountain bike trails, a dog park and plenty of open space to enjoy the outdoors. With its mix of habitats and quiet trails, Bluhm Park is a favorite for walking, birdwatching, and family picnics.
Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Admission is free
Parking is available near the playground and shelter area.
Dogs are welcome on a leash, and there’s also a fenced off-leash Bark Park (see below).
Services and Amenities
Facilities
Seasonal restrooms are located near the main shelter and playground area.
Information Center
Bluhm County Park does not have a visitor center; however, interpretive signage throughout the park highlights its natural features and wildlife
Picnic Areas
Bluhm Park has several picnic areas, including the Grove Shelter (see below for more info)
Playground
The inclusive playground near the main parking area provides a safe and fun space for children of all ages and abilities.
Accessibility
Paved trails and level paths make much of the park accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Grove Shelter
Perfect for family gatherings and reunions (it seats ~ 78), the Grove Shelter sits beside the playground and open lawns. With tables, power, and a large grill, it’s a convenient and comfortable spot for a picnic or community event.
Rental info here.
Trails & Nature Paths
Bluhm County Park has over 8 miles of trails winding through forests, meadows, and restored prairie. Some are paved for easy walking, while others are dirt paths shared by hikers, cyclists, horseback riders and cross-country skiers.
Wildlife & Habitats
The park’s wetlands, pond, and prairie restoration areas attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.
It’s one of the best county parks for spotting seasonal wildflowers, migrating waterfowl, and the occasional deer at dawn or dusk.
Bluhm has a small but enjoyable MTB network with interconnected segments: the Lincoln Trail, Bluhm Park Trail, Bluhm Loops and the Gust Trail system. The trails feature gentle grades and winding lines through wooded and prairie terrain.
Bark Park: Dog Exercise Area
Bluhm County Park is home to a fenced 3-acre off-leash Bark Park, where dogs can run, play, and socialize safely. The area includes agility obstacles, benches, and water stations. Daily or annual permits are required and can be obtained through La Porte County Parks’ Dog Park Permit page.
Park Rules:
No alcoholic beverages.
Pets must be leashed except inside the Bark Park.
No swimming or boating in the pond.
Bicycles must yield to pedestrians and horses.
Fires permitted only in charcoal grills (no wood fires).
No overnight camping.
Vehicles in designated parking areas only.
Do not release wildlife or introduce plants.
No hunting, trapping, or metal detecting.
Valid Indiana fishing license required for ages 18-70.
No fireworks or open burning.