EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Wesselman Woods, the largest urban old-growth forest in the United States, will offer free admission on the last weekend of each month throughout 2025 as part of its Eco-Access Initiative. The program is designed to increase access to nature and environmental education by removing financial barriers for families and individuals in the community.
Visitors during the free weekends will have access to over four miles of trails that wind through the historic forest, as well as several key attractions within the preserve. These include the five-acre Welborn Baptist Foundation Nature Playscape, the Arwood Family Treehouse, and the Bernhardt Family Bird Sanctuary.
The scheduled free access weekends for the remainder of the year are: May 31–June 1, June 28–29, July 26–27, August 30–31, September 27–28, October 25–26, November 29–30, and December 27–28.
Wesselman Woods staff say the Eco-Access Initiative aims to ensure that all residents—regardless of income or background—can enjoy the benefits of outdoor exploration and environmental connection. In addition to free entry, the initiative promotes community engagement and offers opportunities for donors to sponsor children or families.
“These weekends help us bridge the gap in nature access,” said a Wesselman Woods representative. “By eliminating the cost barrier, we’re making sure more people can discover the wonder of one of the most unique ecosystems in the country.”
The initiative is funded in part through community donations, which help support the organization’s environmental education programs and conservation efforts. Supporters can contribute online and choose to sponsor specific groups, with the goal of creating lasting memories and fostering environmental stewardship.
In conjunction with the free weekend in May, Wesselman Woods will host several public events on Saturday, May 31. “Wilderness Weekend” begins at 9 a.m., followed by a free yoga session with Velocity Fitness at 11 a.m. On Thursday, June 5, the preserve will offer “Trails at Twilight,” a guided night hike beginning at 8 p.m.
More information about the Eco-Access Initiative and upcoming events can be found at wesselmanwoods.org/ecoaccess.
