Discover River Preserve

Timeless landscapes rich in natural splendor.

Park Address

River Preserve County Park traces the Elkhart River 4 miles south of Goshen, between Benton and New Paris. See the Access Sites section for directions.

Park Hours

January, February, November, December - 9 am–6 pm
March, October - 9 am–7 pm
April, September - 9 am–8 pm
May, June, July, August - 9 am–9 pm

Park hours subject to change without notice.

Naturally Diverse

Experience the natural beauty of Elkhart County. Scenic landscapes wind along the Elkhart River providing excellent habitat for a wide variety of plants and wildlife.

Freedom to Explore

Get away from the crowds and discover your inner rogue by exploring over 350 acres of unique terrain—perfect for all with a taste for outdoor adventure.

Rich in Local History

The park’s history is written upon the landscape. Mill foundations, canals and spillways remind that this peaceful park was once a thriving commercial area.


Park Map

Planning a visit? [Download Map]


Access Sites

Baintertown Hydro

A half-mile hike on the Baintertown Canal Trail leads visitors to a site where the historic hydroelectric power plant still stands. The area also features a small picnic area and canoe portage.

[ Directions to Site ]

 

Baintertown Park

A half-mile hike on the Baintertown Canal Trail leads visitors to a site where the historic hydroelectric power plant still stands. The area also features a small picnic area and canoe portage.

[ Directions to Site ]

 

Baintertown Dam

Easily accessible from CR 142, this site is popular for fishing and hiking. A short trail along the canal leads to scenic views of the dam and offers opportunities for watching a variety of wildlife.

[ Directions to Site ]

 

Benton Hydro

Benton Hydro offers picturesque views of the countyside for hikers and paddlers. The site also features the longest trail at the Preserve and connects to the Benton Spillway Trail. Please note that parking access is limited to summer.

[ Directions to Site ]

 

Benton Spillway

Benton Spillway is an ideal setting for a relaxing outing with family and friends. The site offers multiple picnic areas, a rentable shelter, and easy access to hiking trails, restrooms, and parking.

[ Directions to Site ]

 

Benton Dam

Hiking trails lead along the historic canal through woods, prairies, and wetlands. The trail provides fantastic opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. Parking is limited to summer, or visitors can park year-round at the adjacent Benton Spillway.

[ Directions to Site ]

 

Benton Landing

Easily accessible from US 33, this cozy site features easy canoe portage and a small picnic area with views overlooking the river and woods.

[ Directions to Site ]

 

DeFries Gardens

DeFries Gardens features seasonal wildflowers, perennials, and a year-round calendar garden. The site is popular with photographers, gardeners, and artists.

[ View Destination ]

 

[ Directions to Site ]

 

Things to Do

Get away from the crowds and discover your inner rogue by exploring over 300 acres of unique terrain–perfect for all with a taste for outdoor adventure.

Birding

Warblers, vireos, and thrushes can be found in abundance in fall and spring, as many of these birds follow the Elkhart River as part of their migration route.

Explore Nature

A walk along the river offers the chance to spot river otters, beavers, and other unique species, such as the state-endangered Blanding’s turtle.

Fishing

Slow-moving canals and wetland ponds provide year-round fishing opportunities for local favorites like Bluegill and Northern Pike.

Hiking

Find trails less traveled with the park’s terrain, perfect for nature hikes and exploring Elkhart County’s natural diversity.

Kayak + Canoe

Bring a kayak or canoe and try out the region’s water trails — accessible via multiple portage sites located within the park.

Snow Sports

When snow blankets the county, step outside to cross-county ski the park’s groomed trails.

Upcoming Events

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Creatures of the Night: Spiders

09/26/2024 7:30 pm
Free
8+
Learn More

Wed. Bird Walk: Fall Frenzy

09/04/2024 8:00 am
Free
8+
Learn More

P.O.W! - Camping

05/16/2024 6:00 pm
$4/person (No Limit)
All
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Baintertown History Hike

05/09/2024 6:00 pm
Free
All
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Spring Plant Exchange

05/04/2024 1:00 pm
Free
All
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Wed. Bird Walk: Migration Mania

05/01/2024 7:30 am
Free
8+
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Bird Language Lessons

04/21/2024 1:00 pm
Free (Limit 15)
8+
Learn More

Shelters at River Preserve

The River Preserve features two shelters located in Baintertown Park and Benton Spillway. Sites at DeFries Gardens are also available for reservation for special occasions.

Weddings at DeFries Gardens

Capacity50

Fee$225

Security Deposit$$250

Benton Shelter

Capacity30

Fee$30

Baintertown Shelter

Capacity50

Fee$50