Boone Creek Barrens

The Boone Creek Special Area on the Hoosier National Forest contains several rare barrens communities in close association with adjacent dry forests. Beginning in mid-summer, these small openings explode with the color of brilliant wildflowers. Although the area does not have a developed trail system, visitors can view colorful wildflowers from the roadside on the north and southeast boundaries. A short hike along down the ridgelines with southern or western aspects brings visitors to the remnant barrens. Barrens openings occur on thin limestone or calcareous shale that results in an increased diversity of prairie forbs and warm season grasses. Stunted trees of post oak and blackjack oak typically dominate these areas. Because of the broad assortment of plants, these areas support many species of grassland insects, including many moths, butterflies, and skippers.

Wildflower viewing information