Metea County Park
A sprawling natural escape with scenic Cedar Creek, pristine trails, and a unique 'dirt playground' for kids.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Metea County Park
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling natural escape with scenic Cedar Creek, pristine trails, and a unique 'dirt playground' for kids.
"Absolutely a hidden gem, beautifully kept park with lots of hiking trails."
Embrace Nature Play
Kids love the 'dirt playground' for imaginative fun! :child:
Check Park Closing Time
Park closes at 9 PM sharp. Be out before then to avoid being locked in! :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cedar Creek Scenic River
Divides North & South sections
A state-designated scenic river offering beautiful views and opportunities for canoeing.
Natural Playscape
North side of the park
An engaging 'dirt playground' perfect for open-ended, nature-based play for children.
Extensive Hiking Trails
Throughout the park
Well-maintained, natural trails offering serene walks with minimal litter and beautiful scenery.
Traditional Playground & Pond
South side of the park
A classic playground area adjacent to a pond, offering a different kind of fun after exploring nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Access & Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Embrace Nature Play
Kids love the 'dirt playground' for imaginative fun! :child:
Check Park Closing Time
Park closes at 9 PM sharp. Be out before then to avoid being locked in! :clock1:
Trail Serenity
Trails are pristine and feel untouched. Minimal bugs in mid-May mornings. :hiking_boot:
Scenic River Views
Beautiful views of Cedar Creek, great for canoeing. :canoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Embrace Nature Play
Kids love the 'dirt playground' for imaginative fun! :child:
Check Park Closing Time
Park closes at 9 PM sharp. Be out before then to avoid being locked in! :clock1:
Trail Serenity
Trails are pristine and feel untouched. Minimal bugs in mid-May mornings. :hiking_boot:
Scenic River Views
Beautiful views of Cedar Creek, great for canoeing. :canoe:
Photography Opportunities
Dramatic skies and natural landscapes make for stunning engagement photos. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Metea County Park is widely loved for its beautiful, well-maintained natural trails and the unique 'dirt playground' that kids adore. Visitors appreciate the serene environment and scenic views along Cedar Creek. However, a significant concern is the strict adherence to closing times, with one reviewer reporting being locked in without adequate notice.
"I hike at Matea quite a bit. One of my fave parks. North side the road is closed right now so we did South side today. Always well kept."
Kathy Jackson
"I come to Metea park very often! I love the trails and there are so many beautiful views of the river! There is also a fun playground and pond!"
Nora
"2 stars for the amenities. We frequent often to Fox Island & Matea so much we bought a season pass. Tonight, we gathered our belongings at 8:40p and even noticed the young kid from the front gate waiting for others to leave. As I was getting my child dressed into dry clothes (before 9p) by our truck, they left us and locked us in at 9p sharp. The only signage they had was "if you're locked in, call the County Sheriff." What!??! No announcement? No heads up before locking me and my 2 kids in the park at dinner time? That's heinous!!!! Will update how long we end up sitting in 92° weather waiting for someone to open the gate."
Dana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Metea County Park is located north of Fort Wayne, Indiana. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most common way to access the park. The park is divided into north and south sections by Cedar Creek.
Yes, the park is generally well-marked. However, be aware that parts of the road on the north side may be closed seasonally or for maintenance, as noted by visitors.
Metea County Park is highly recommended for its lovely trails, along with Bicentennial Woods. The natural scenery along Cedar Creek is a major draw.
Cedar Creek divides the park into north and south sections. Depending on the season and any ongoing maintenance, access to both sides may vary.
While not directly within the park, Fort Wayne offers other natural playscapes like the one at the Fort Wayne Zoo, which can be a good complement to a visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is typically around $2 per person or $7 per car. Purchasing a season pass might be cost-effective if you plan to visit frequently, as some locals do.
Metea County Park generally closes at 9 PM. It's crucial to be aware of this closing time, as one visitor reported being locked in after 9 PM without prior notice.
Information on advance ticket purchases is not readily available. It's best to assume you'll pay the entry fee upon arrival at the park.
Some frequent visitors opt for season passes, which can offer savings if you plan to visit multiple times throughout the year.
According to signage, if you are locked in, you are instructed to call the County Sheriff. It's advisable to leave well before the 9 PM closing time.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Metea County Park offers a variety of activities including hiking on natural trails, canoeing on Cedar Creek, swimming in the lake, and enjoying the traditional playground and the unique natural playscape.
Yes, visitors consistently describe the trails as well-kept, natural, and beautiful, with minimal litter. They are ideal for both energetic dogs and peaceful walks.
Absolutely! Metea County Park features a traditional playground and a highly praised 'dirt playground' or natural playscape that encourages open-ended play.
Yes, swimming in the lake is mentioned as a refreshing activity available at the park.
The park's natural beauty, scenic river, and dramatic skies make it a popular spot for photography, including engagement sessions. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no specific mentions of on-site restaurants or cafes within Metea County Park. Visitors typically bring their own food and drinks for picnics.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. You can gather with family and friends, and some reviews mention gathering in a shed, suggesting picnic facilities might be available.
Given the natural setting, it's recommended to pack all your food and beverages. Consider bringing a cooler for drinks and snacks, especially on warmer days.
While not detailed in the provided information, Fort Wayne has a variety of dining options available if you plan to eat before or after your park visit.
There is no mention of a concession stand within Metea County Park in the provided reviews or social media content.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic Cedar Creek riverbanks, the natural landscapes along the hiking trails, and areas with dramatic skies offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, the park's beautiful natural setting and potential for dramatic skies make it a popular and romantic location for engagement photoshoots.
Late afternoons, especially during golden hour, provide beautiful lighting for photography. Early mornings can also offer soft light and fewer crowds.
No specific restrictions on general photography have been mentioned. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Information regarding drone usage is not provided. It's advisable to check with park authorities for any regulations concerning drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to check the park's closing time (9 PM) to avoid any issues. Packing a picnic is a good idea, as on-site dining options are limited. The entry fee is reasonable, making it an affordable outing for a day of fun and nature exploration.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
The park is ideal for peaceful walks, especially during weekday mornings when crowds are minimal. The trails are perfect for observing local flora and fauna, and the overall atmosphere is one of tranquility and untouched nature. Photographers will also find plenty of opportunities to capture the park's scenic vistas.
+1📸 Photographers
Engagement and portrait photographers often utilize the park's dramatic skies and natural backdrops for stunning shoots.
Visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon can yield particularly beautiful lighting. The park's well-maintained, natural appearance ensures a visually appealing setting for any photographic endeavor. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural Playscape
Parents appreciate that this natural playscape offers a different kind of fun, where children can dig, build, and explore without the constraints of manufactured play structures. It’s a space where the environment itself becomes the playground, offering endless possibilities for discovery. The proximity to a traditional playground also provides options for varied play experiences within the same visit.
Hiking the Pristine Trails
These trails are ideal for all levels of hikers, from casual walkers to those with energetic dogs. The lack of litter and minimal human impact on the trails contribute to their serene atmosphere. Visiting in the morning, especially in mid-May, can mean fewer bugs and a more tranquil walk, allowing you to fully appreciate the park's natural beauty.
For those interested in specific natural events, the park has hosted activities like controlled burns, which are part of land management, and 'Salamander Searches,' indicating a commitment to ecological education and conservation.
+1Cedar Creek: A Scenic Waterway
Visitors can enjoy canoeing on Cedar Creek, adding an adventurous element to their park visit. The scenic beauty of the river makes it a focal point for many, whether they are hiking along its banks or enjoying it from a canoe. The creek contributes significantly to the park's overall charm and its reputation as a natural gem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit