Indy is truly so lucky to be able to have as much outdoor space as we do through Fort Harrison State Park. There are trails galore, and that's mainly why I go, so I'll focus on that. There are a lot of different trailheads that have different difficulty, but I'd say they're mostly moderate on average. Each trailhead has its own parking lot. There is also a $7 entry fee per car. The trails aren't too busy most of the time but it's not uncommon to pass by others. The trails are also very clean and kept under good shade covered. There's nice views here with all the trees and the historical sites from when Fort Harrison was, well, a fort. I'm mostly a hiker by way of my outdoor adventures, so I'd love to check out some of the other resources at the park sometime! read more

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Back at Fort Harrison with my best fur-iend Bentley. There are lots of trails here, but when this little guy is with me we stick to the paved paths. He's got a huge adventure spirit, just little legs, so we switch things up with chauffeur service, aka me pushing his stroller :D This is one of our favorite easy outings together. read more

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I love exploring the park with my dog. The park is especially beautiful in the fall! We love the walking trails and lake views. read more

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There's a $7 entrance fee which is good for the entire day. She was very friendly at the main entrance. There's a lot to do at the park. Very beautiful and serene to take photos. Many trails. Horseback riding is very therapeutic for me. I wish there was a way to keep the bugs away from the horses. They kept trying to get them off. read more

Fort Harrison State Park - Horseback riding - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

We ended my birthday weekend with a hour long horse back ride! This was my first time riding so Bo was my horse, he knew what he was doing and took great care of me! Would love to come back and ride again! read more

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What a great park nestled in the middle of the city is Lawrence which is a carve out surrounded by Indianapolis. Well maintained walking/hiking/biking trails. So rustic and peaceful, you'd never know you were in the midst of an urban area. This is especially true of the fine golf course. Can't wait to visit the brand new Pete & Alice Dye Golf Center. read more

I'm doing a #hikeindiana challenge and Fort Harrison is first on our list of Indiana State Parks to visit this year (because is the closest and easiest and we may have hibernate all winter). We've done lots of trails here but today we did the Camp Creek Trail today, which was a very muddy hike - honestly the trail probably should have been closed if you go in these melt months I recommend grabbing a stick (walking stick) to help with balance Otterwise bring extra clothes. The park is gorgeous though. I do wish they had a commissary store especially since our beloved Fort ben coffee shop closed recently. The Camp Creek Trail is 2.48 MILES (from parking lot to trail, the trail, and back). It took about 1.5hrs 85' ascent and I would say is moderate to hard. There is a super cute pond, Duck Pond a little over halfway though, the perfect spot to stop and have a snack and a rest. read more

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Not sure how I've lived in Indianapolis my entire life and hadn't visited this park. Tucked away nicely this park is huge! It is a state park so there is an entry free (I think $7) per car unless you have the annual park pass which as a side note is worth it if you like to hike. I arrived around 11 and there wasn't a line to enter which was nice. There are several trails you can walk depending on the time you want to spend and the level of difficulty. The one I walked wasn't bad at all. It was really nice to see all the families, dogs, couples, friends walking and just enjoying nature. The park is also very clean and it looks like they have done a good job keeping the paths pretty clear and safe. read more

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Dog park is fantastic 3 separate areas plenty of room to run. Everyone was nice. Very easy to get the pass at the visitor center read more

I love the trains here that are conducive for walking/running, biking, skating, hiking or just plain ol' strolling. The is this high hill to challenge yourself to climb and then when winter comes and brings snow? THE best to tube or sled down! There is horseback riding to enjoy and so many hidden gems that you'll want to be sure to discover Also there are shelters and bathrooms available as well as grills and picnic tables. A great place for individuals, groups and your pets! read more

This is a staple if you live in Indy and if you're traveling through. I do know the park has community days which are free, otherwise you pay $7 per vehicle and if you ride a bike in or jog in, it is free. There's something for everyone back here. A total of 6 hiking/biking trails - the longest of which is the Lawrence creek trail and is 4.6 miles long. There's a rather large playscape area near the entrance to your right after driving in. It is fully equipped with a winding slide, swings & plenty of sitting room for moms, dads & all those in between. There's also a gigantic hill that is PERFECT for sledding once it gets cold & we have snow (as long as a grown up is standing at the bottom as you could slide into the driving path). If you drive back even further, you'll find an area that has nearly 20 grills in individual drive up sections for family's to pull their vehicle up and enjoy nature & food together. There is a museum back here and a horse stable that IS available for people to sign waivers & ride on two different trails for two different lengths and prices. If you love nature and have not visited this park, don't wait any longer. read more

Fort Harrison State Park - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

There's a little bit of everything here at Fort Harrison: There are multiple playgrounds, a huge hill that is great to sled down when it snows, walking and hiking trails, forest areas to explore, places to barbecue and chill, and creeks to stomp in. This is a park for everybody, and it's a great place to appreciate the outdoors in Indy. The last time we visited, it was on a free day, so we didn't have to pay admission. But usually, Fort Harrison requires a fee to enter. So bring yo cash if you want to visit, or get a state park pass, which will allow you to enter via the pass. We usually always visit the playgrounds, which are fun but nothing to go out of your way to visit. I certainly wouldn't pay admission just to visit these playgrounds, but if you're here and you have playground-age children, then you must go. The last time we were at Fort Harrison, we brought hot dogs and picnic accoutrements, and used one of the grills available to cook out. It was nice because we had our own little spot with two picnic tables and a grill, and it was near the woods, so we hiked into the woods after eating. While in the woods, we discovered some forts made out of tree branches that kids could fit in. Could this be why Fort Harrison is named as such, because there are forts in the park? I feel like this would be a good park to run through, because there were lots of paved paths that went along the greenspaces and through the woods. I also saw lots of people running while I was there, which confirms my suspicion that this is a good park in which to run. read more

This is a lovely state park so close to downtown Indy! We visited in the fall and the trees and grounds were so full of vibrant colors! There are so many hiking options of varying lengths. We did a hike that was about 3 miles and wound back around a pretty pond. There are also lots of biking trails if biking is your thing! read more

Fort Harrison State Park - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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It was a perfect fall day to go to the park. It's nicely laid out and there are plenty of activities within the park. We we walked by the lake, stopped by the saddle barn, just drove around to take in all the trees changing. read more

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I've found solace among the parks (with safe social distancing) while home during the pandemic. I've wanted to hike and visit Ft. Ben for some time, and finally did once we had decent weather here. It didn't disappoint! I chose the Camp Creek Trail, and while it is rather easy for someone in relative shape, it's a pretty easy hike for most, including kids and families. With the nice weather, the park is busier, but still relaxing and easy to stay separated and distanced. read more

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This is my COVID update; please see my previous review for how things are in more normal times! I had been wanting to come out here since spring, but was worried that it would be too crowded on the weekends and also was a bit concerned due to it being a little bit of a drive away and restroom facilities being closed... Anyway, I headed over there this morning, and when I arrived a little before 9AM the Delaware Lake lot was fairly full, but there were still a good number of spots. I did my usual loop here which is the Fall Creek Trail to the Duck Pond and then returning via the Camp Creek Trail to the Harrison Trace Trail back to the Delaware Lake parking lot. This is a little over an hour easy hike for me at a leisurely pace with stops to look at flowers, the creek and birds. There were others on the trail, but it wasn't crowded and the VAST majority of people were being great about popping their masks on when passing others and/or stepping off the trail to social distance. I was impressed; this is the best I've seen at any park so far. The Harrison Trace Trail is the paved multi-purpose one that runs around the park; it is wider than the Monon in many places and wasn't anywhere near as crowded. I need to think about this for some longer runs. By the time I was leaving, around 10:15, the parking lot was quite full, but the nearby Cherry Tree Lot had only a few cars and I mean....I'm coming here to walk anyway... read more

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Today, my daughter and I went for our first horse ride through the most beautiful trail. Ive never even sat on a horse and I wasn't even sure that I could get on one. But I did....ONLY because of our awesome guide, Robert! I wish I could remember the other amazing employees name....she made me feel so comfortable and less self conscious. My daughter had a great time. I had a great time. We will definitely be back. They also offer really cool pony rides for the Lil ones. Today was great read more

We are an outdoorsy family and this is one of our favorite state parks to when we feel the need to get out to nature! There is so much to this state park,..if you are looking for... -a catch and release pond -off-the-beaten path trails -paved trails -playground (with a slide dug into the side of a hill) -a sledding hill -horseback riding -picnic spots Then this is the park for you! It's a well maintained gem that is close to downtown indy and the northeast side. The restroom facilities are modern and pretty clean. The paved trail is divided to allow bicycles and pedestrians to each have their own lane. It is a carry out your trash park. read more

Fort Harrison State Park - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

5 stars. We've been twice already in the last month and we are looking forward to going, again! We went on a guided fall foliage hike that was advertised as being 1.5 miles...but our pedometer clicked in at 3.1! Awesome hike, but I had a bad ankle so I would've loved to know that it was gonna be longer - I would have wrapped my ankle or chosen another activity. Our guide was from The Dept of Natural Resources and she was great! We learned how to identify different trees and even saw the Indiana state tree - the Tulip Tree. Our second trip was for fall photos. Our photographer picked out some great spots that highlighted the fall colors and even some with a little water in the background. It was the perfect backdrop for our family. Entry fee is on $7 per car. The walnut grove is pretty cool to see... if here horseback riding, a war museum, duck pond, etc. Public restrooms are available for when nature calls! And there's a pretty tasty restaurant right outside the gates. Fine family fun can be had! read more

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Beautiful place! Hiking trails and dog park are amazing. Different places to explore.

I feel the need to update my review considering that this is my actual home away from home. I'm here at least once a week, even before COVID struck. Reasons to love this park: - it's so so so close to downtown Indy. - you appreciate the extraordinary in the "ordinary" - lots of options for bikers, beginner hikers, outdoor walkers, runners, etc. - 3 main trails are installed (2 of which are for both hikers/bikers; 1 is reserved for only hikers) - lots of open space to get away from the hustle and bustle of the nearby city - horse riding and other special events/workshops happen throughout the year, including live music With COVID, it has made this a hot-spot for many, many people, which is quite bittersweet. I definitely miss being one of the only people in the park but it's nice to see so many people out and reconnecting with nature. read more

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New favorite park in Indy! I'm embarrassed it took me this long to discover Fort Harrison on Indy's NE side. It's easy to get there off I-465 and suddenly you're in an outdoor oasis. I visited on State Parks Sunday for Visit Indiana Week when admission was free but it's normally $7 per car. Well worth it! This is an expansive park with lots of places to park, have a picnic and walk around. We opted for the Fall Creek Trail that goes along Fall Creek to Duck Pond and back out to the lake. It was moderate difficulty, mainly due to the recent rain and resulting mud. Luckily, there were benches along the way to stop and rest, and you're shaded by the tree canopy. I can't wait to check out more trails here! read more

Fort Harrison State Park - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

This was in our backyard and didn't even know it! We are really into cycling and this is the perfect place to enjoy that! Well kept, beautiful trails and scenery. Lots of folks either walking dogs, family gatherings or individuals finding a shaded area to sit and read. A perfect place to enjoy the outdoors. read more

Fort Harrison State Park - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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I came here a few times as a kid when sledding or playing in the park. We decided to come today since it was free on Black Friday. The park was pretty busy but not too crowded. We walked on one trail but I didn't see the name anywhere near it. We also went to the visitor center and looked around. I don't typically come to this park since it is usually a fee to enter. It is a great place to visit though since they have many things to see and do. They have tons of picnic areas throughout so this would be great for a family gathering. read more

So nice to visit here, glad i was able to spend time here with the family, easy in and out with the camper.

This park is quick place to go fish that is usually not too terribly crowded except during the holidays in the summer. The park is kept clean and there is ample parking. My review is based on my fishing experiences since that is the many reason why I visit. You better have a fishing license because it is required here. Don't take a chance and think the park ranger may not be somewhere checking on who has a license and who doesn't because the odds are not worth it. I have never been asked for my license but I know others that have been and I have seen park rangers randomly visit people fishing asking to see a license. While the cost of a fishing license has increase for 2022, I recommend getting your license in April 1st because they are valid for 1 year, April 1st to March 31st. Not 1 year from the date you purchase. Keep your license in a small ziploc bag and have a copy for a backup. Keep your license on you while fishing. If you are not a seasoned fisherperson, you may find your line tangled in whatever weeds, plants, etc. that is the murky water. The water is not crystal clear like other places that I have fished so that is one drawback to fishing here. Be warned that the fish are pretty smart and will run your line under the dock or in a overrun weeded spot. Channel cat is a common fish to catch and you might luck on a bass. My biggest catch was a large turtle and turtles are prevalent in this area. One day I do plan to visit to go horseback riding because the park has an extensive horse trail. read more

It's such a beautiful park, especially in the summer when the trees have blossomed, my husband and I Love riding our bikes through the park. I also sometime walk my dog and, just take a walk to take in the beautiful scenery. Oh, and by the way, the park makes for beautiful pictures. read more

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Decent park with a few features for families to gather. It's clean and the wildlife can get close to you and your food! :D

Even during a dreary, December afternoon in Indianapolis, this state park offers an easily accessible way to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air. There are trails for walking, biking, and more. Pets are welcome. There are plenty of open air areas for a picnic. The main trail(s) is paved, but there are also dirt paths for those wanting to get more into the woods. We feel fortunate to have this quick outdoor option so close to home! read more

Fort Harrison State Park - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Great park, right on the edge of the city. Nice variety of trails for hiking or biking. Sledding hill. Good roads for biking. Nice pavilions for parties. read more

I have always loved going to Fort Harrison! My favorite thing to go for is to go hiking and take a good picnic. There is plenty of parking near a ton of the trail heads, so it's easy to get around. There are plenty of trails to walk or run, and a ton of green space for the perfect picnic. Since it's a state park, there is a cost for admission. read more

This state park has some amazing trails for both hiking and mountain biking. Even road bikers have something to do here as there is a pretty nice paved trail that goes around the duck pond. read more

My family and friends attended the 5K Mission 22 Run for Hope. The run was on paved trails, the place seemed well maintained and well marked. The place offered different activities- I was not able to check it out, but I will definitely come back again to this place. There were several trails in the park for hiking, biking and trail running. There's also plenty of picnic areas for gathering. There's also a fee to come in the park- $7 per car which was very reasonable, but the fee will be waived if you have an Indiana State Parks pass. read more

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On a whim, we went hiking here and omg Hello, October!! The foliage is stunning right now! We took the 6mile hike, and use almost like you go thru different scenes in a play. It's so picturesque, almost fairy like in some places. It would be perfect for an engagement or family shoot. The hike is really nice and with this cooler weather, it's perfect! read more

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Such a great park for literally anyone! Beginners too, don't be intimidated - just come visit! Entry fee in 2020 is $7. They offer park maps at the gate house, and offer a long paved walking/biking path for those who aren't comfortable with a true "hike" yet. There are also horse stables for you to check out as well! FYI sometimes there is a car line at the gate house to get in on popular warm days. Don't be discouraged- it usually moves pretty quick and you'll be inside within 10-15 mins! We have a stroller with a little one so we've taken advantage of the paved paths multiple times now. They also have several restroom houses located throughout the park, and they are well kept! Plenty of picnic benches are scattered through the park as well. It is also gorgeous during the fall if you're able to get out there. But I highly recommend a visit anytime! read more

I, typically, go running on the trails or rent a shelter. This time I rented rec building 702. It has a capacity of 40 ppl. Parking is convenient and it is easy to find. It was clean when we walked in and well equipped with everything we needed for our small gathering. I would not hesitate to rent a building or shelter from here again. read more

Always love going to fort Harrison state park! It's a great park to take our dog for a moderate hike. As I'm sure we all know, the cicadas are out in full force! They are SUPER loud on the trails! It's pretty cool to hear. I think this park is really well maintained and clean. The trails are always cleared and well marked. Well worth the park fee to get into the park. read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE Ft. Harrison State park!! My house is close by. The park is beautiful, well kept, the trails are clear & awesome. And it's like $7 per car for entrance. You can't beat that. I also noticed last time I was there that they have an area for weddings on the grounds with an alter (spelling?) & so If I ever get married, Ft. Harrison state park is where it will take place!! Beautiful place read more

It had been far too long since my last visit to Fort Harrison State Park. Much like I remembered, the park has an easy to follow paved trail that loops around the north end of the park from Delaware Lake to the Duck Pond. Good for hikers and bikers, the 2.75 mile trail does have some elevation changes, but otherwise, is easy to traverse. Much of the trail goes by the golf course that is the neighbor to the park. Being a little more adventurous, I opted to take the Fall Creek Trail from the Delaware Lake parking area. This trail wanders through the wooded area along Fall Creek with wide footpaths that are mostly worn down to soil, so taking this path is great on dry days, not so good after rains. The trail winds for 1.1 miles to the north through the Warbler Woods Nature Preserve section of the park. At its northern most point, there is a series of scaffolding and stairs called the Fall Creek Boardwalk and Observation Deck. If you don't have trouble with stairs, this makes it easy to stay near Fall Creek with sure footing. If you don't like stairs, you should stick to the paved Harrison Trace path. Fall Creek Trail ends at the Duck Pond on the east end of the park, so if you want to return to the place you parked, then you have to choose between the paved trail or find one of the other trails (Camp Creek) to take you back. However, if you don't have a trail map with you, finding the unpaved trails is not that easy. I saw some unpaved trails, but they had no trail markers identifying them (at least none visible from the paved trail.) I played it safe and stayed on the paved trail, but would probably take the unpaved on my next visit just to be more enveloped in nature. Although I didn't hike any other trails, the park has an easy 1.0 mile trail (Tree ID Trail) on the south side of the park near the Camp Glenn picnic area. For those who like more of a challenge, there is a 3.6 mile Lawrence Creek trail loop that explores the southwest area of the park through the Lawrence Creek Nature Preserve section. The park also features five shelters, multiple picnic tables with grills, playgrounds, a saddle barn, and on the north end from its own entrance, a dog park. Fishing for those with licenses is available at the well maintained Delaware Lake which features a deck that extends into the lake for reaching deeper water fishing. The 1744 acre park (including golf course) also has a visitors center, a museum of 20th Century Warfare (both near the saddle barns) and sledding/cross country skiing in the winter months. Review #831 read more

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The beautiful people of Indianapolis are so incredibly lucky to have a state park within city limits. You just don't get that in most cities. In fact, I can't think of a single one. Please, prove me wrong. Fort Benjamin Harrison offers up something fun to do during every Indiana season, with the exception of mud season, which typically arrives during our fifth winter. There's plenty of hiking trails to explore, horses to ride and pet, and creeks to stomp. During winter you can go sledding down the sledding hill. On top of that, you can bike, walk, picnic, and play on the playground too. Any of these options are yours for the fair price of $7 per car load unless you have a state park pass. However, right now, during this pandemic, Fort Harrison State Park is open and free. All fees are currently being waved. We're nto sure how long the park will remain open or if the city wil feel pressured to close it. But right now, visiting the park on a nice day gives our family a sense of normal. And that goes a long way. read more

Fort Harrison State Park - No fees during the pandemic. - Parks Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana