Wells County: Nature, Culture and History

Wells County brings together the Wabash River, natural areas, designated trails, and historic sites. Nature and wildlife, seasonal recreational activities, culture, and local products offer different ways to shape your stay.

River Landscapes and Nature

Ouabache State Park is located on the Wabash River near Bluffton; “Ouabache” is pronounced “O-bah-chee.” The park includes a 20-acre enclosure where American bison live in a natural setting. Kunkel Lake offers fishing opportunities—another feature of the park beyond the bison enclosure.

The Wabash River flows slowly through rural areas of Adams and Wells counties and through the center of Bluffton. It is known for its natural beauty and wildlife. On the north bank, Acres Along the Wabash Nature Preserve borders the river for 0.75 miles. The river, wildlife, and preserve give the county’s landscape a clear connection to nature.

Trails in Wells County

Wells County has a total of 28 miles of designated trails. One trail runs for about 17.5 miles through Ossian and Bluffton. These figures offer two perspectives: the total length of designated trails in the county and the approximate route of one trail through the two towns. You can consider trails and river landscapes as distinct highlights of your trip without converting the distances into walking times or difficulty ratings.

Swimming and Recreation

Wells Community Aquatic Park has a zero-depth entry, an integrated pool ramp, a hydraulic lift seat, and easily accessible steps. These specific features may be helpful as you compare swimming options. Markle Pool is a seasonal freshwater pool with two slides, a refreshment area, and a volleyball court. Check the pool’s operating status before your trip.

Culture and History

The Wells County Historical Society and Museum hosts “Christmas in the Mansion” every December. The event features more than 30 Christmas trees, and visitors can vote for their favorites. The museum’s seasonal hours are listed for spring, summer, and fall: Sundays and Wednesdays, from 1 to 4 p.m. Check whether these hours apply before your visit.

In Bluffton’s Triangle Park, near the Wabash River at the intersection of Wayne Street and Market Street, stands the historic memorial to Charles C. Deam. Deam was Indiana’s first State Forester, serving first from 1909 to 1913 and then from 1917 to 1928. He subsequently served as Research Forester from 1928 to 1940. The memorial connects a specific place in Bluffton with these milestones in his career.

The memorial to the Kingsland Interurban Wreck commemorates the collision of two cars on the Fort Wayne & Wabash Valley Traction Line north of Kingsland on September 21, 1910. The passengers were traveling to a county fair; despite the efforts of local residents, 41 passengers died. A bridge on the River Greenway commemorates a historic covered bridge that once crossed Bill’s Creek.

The Bluffton Free Street Fair is also part of the county’s history: it was founded in 1898 as a free celebration in downtown Bluffton. The Creative Arts Council of Wells County offers theater productions, music lessons, and classes in visual arts and dance. The cultural offerings thus range from historic memorials to artistic activities.

Local Products

Local Grown & Made features local growers and producers in Wells County. They include vendors of fruit and vegetables, meat, honey, and baked goods. If local products are among your travel interests, this selection offers another glimpse of the county’s culinary scene.

Discover more destinations: Bluffton, Henry County, Starke County, Newton County, Dubois County, Warren County, Greene County, Washington County.

For the main travel overview: Indiana.