Fort Harrison State Park
A 1,700-acre oasis near Indianapolis offering hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and unique attractions like a salt cave.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Fort Harrison State Park
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1,700-acre oasis near Indianapolis offering hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and unique attractions like a salt cave.
"Absolutely beautiful park just east of the Indianapolis metro area. Worth every penny."
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Trails can be confusing; use an offline map app to avoid getting lost. :iphone:
🐴 Saddle Up for a Ride
The Saddle Barn offers horseback riding, a popular activity for many visitors. :horse:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Schoen Creek Trail
Various trailheads
A nearly 3-mile loop offering twists, turns, and varied terrain for an immersive nature experience.
Saddle Barn
Saddle Barn area
Experience horseback riding with options for all skill levels at this unique park amenity.
Harrison Trace Trail
Paved path
A paved route perfect for biking and walking, offering a smooth way to explore the park's scenery.
Indianapolis Salt Cave
Within the park
Discover a unique, relaxing experience with potential respiratory benefits from Himalayan salt.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Trails
Park Entry Fees & Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Trails can be confusing; use an offline map app to avoid getting lost.
🐴 Saddle Up for a Ride
The Saddle Barn offers horseback riding, a popular activity for many visitors.
🚴♀️ Paved Paths for Biking
Harrison Trace Trail is ideal for cyclists and walkers seeking a smooth route.
🎣 Cast a Line
Fishing is a popular activity at the park's lake, offering a relaxing experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Trails can be confusing; use an offline map app to avoid getting lost.
🐴 Saddle Up for a Ride
The Saddle Barn offers horseback riding, a popular activity for many visitors.
🚴♀️ Paved Paths for Biking
Harrison Trace Trail is ideal for cyclists and walkers seeking a smooth route.
🎣 Cast a Line
Fishing is a popular activity at the park's lake, offering a relaxing experience.
🚗 Check Entry Fees
Be aware of entry fees, which can vary and may be higher on holidays. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fort Harrison State Park for its convenient location near Indianapolis, beautiful natural scenery, and diverse activities like hiking and horseback riding. Some reviewers note that trail markings could be improved and that entry fees might be higher than expected on holidays. Despite minor drawbacks, it's considered a well-maintained and worthwhile state park.
"The saddle barn was amazing. However, we stayed after to hike around and found the map given to be less than useful due to the trails themselves are poorly marked. I also was not a fan you frequently could see another trail making the trails to feel a bit crowded together.
However, for being so convenient to Indianapolis, it is a nice State Park."
Kelly Perry
"Absolutely beautiful park just east of the Indianapolis metro area. Very well maintained by Indiana DNR. Many trails, including at least one along side a beautiful clear water creek. Lots of picnic areas, horseback riding, and even a golf course. Great place for relaxing and getting away by yourself or with family. One of Indiana's nicer state parks. I highly recommend. $7 entry for Indiana registered vehicles. $11 for non-Indiana registered vehicles. Worth every penny."
Kevin Humphrey
"Great park! I can't believe I waited so long to visit. I went for my New Years Day hike. I was disappointed that there were employees at the gate in New Years it being a holiday and all. I was even more disappointed when she asked for the gate fee and it was 1$ more than the other Indiana State Parks!!! I honestly should say I was appalled. Overall I was impressed. There is a playground with an in grounds slide. The restrooms were very clean and all of the stalls had toilet paper. I walked the 4 mile trail. It was a bit challenging and I found the way the trail winds in and out of the hills interesting. I drove all the roads and found the old barracks and horse stalls. I also drove past picnic areas. The picnic areas had me think about the hot summers we get and how there aren't many trees around for shade. I'd like to go back and hike this park more but unfortunately I think the open hours will conflict with my schedule."
kelsi wagner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Harrison State Park is conveniently located just east of downtown Indianapolis, approximately 20 minutes away. You can access it via various entrances, with one mentioned off of Fall Creek Road.
Yes, Fort Harrison State Park is great for biking. The Harrison Trace Trail offers a paved route suitable for cyclists, and hybrid bikes are generally adequate for the park's trails.
If you plan to bike into the park, consider parking at an entrance off of Fall Creek Road to access the trails more directly.
Yes, Fort Harrison State Park is pet-friendly, allowing you to explore nature with your furry companions.
The park is easily accessible from Indianapolis. For specific directions, it's recommended to use a GPS navigation system, as there are multiple entry points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees apply, typically $7 for Indiana-registered vehicles and $9 for non-Indiana registered vehicles per car. An annual pass may also be an option.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, purchasing an Indiana State Nature Passport can offer rewards for exploring various DNR properties.
Park hours can vary, and it's advisable to check the official park website or contact them directly before your visit, as they may not always align with visitor schedules.
Yes, the park is generally open on holidays, though there might be slightly different entry fees or staffing at the gate.
Reservations are typically not required for general park entry, but it's always a good idea to check the park's official website for any special event or seasonal restrictions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hiking trails include the Schoen Creek Trail (approx. 3 miles, varied terrain) and the Camp Creek Trail. The Harrison Trace Trail offers a paved option.
Yes, Fort Harrison State Park features a Saddle Barn that offers horseback riding for visitors of all experience levels.
Absolutely! The park has a lake where fishing is a popular activity, providing a peaceful and relaxing experience.
Yes, there are playgrounds available, including one with an in-ground slide, making it a family-friendly destination.
Beyond the natural beauty, you can visit the Indianapolis Salt Cave for a unique wellness experience and explore old army rubble piles and barracks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the park offers numerous picnic areas, many equipped with built-in grills, perfect for a spontaneous cookout.
Bringing your own food is encouraged, especially for picnics. There are also free picnic areas with grill tools available.
There are no specific restaurants mentioned within the park itself. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or dine in nearby Indianapolis.
Given its proximity to Indianapolis, you'll find a wide range of dining options in the city, from casual eateries to fine dining.
Information about a concession stand is not readily available. It's best to come prepared with your own food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers diverse photographic opportunities, including scenic creek views, wooded trails, and the unique architecture of the Saddle Barn.
Yes, with its varied landscapes, including forests, creeks, and open areas, it's an excellent location for nature photography year-round.
While not guaranteed, the park's natural environment provides opportunities to photograph local wildlife. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so it's best to check with park management.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, often provide the best natural light for photography, especially in the wooded areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The availability of picnic areas with grills makes it easy to pack a family meal and enjoy it amidst nature. Consider exploring the Harrison Trace Trail for a smoother, paved path that's easier for strollers or younger children to navigate.
The park's natural setting provides ample opportunities for kids to connect with nature, whether it's exploring wooded areas or observing the lake. 🚴♀️ Outdoor Enthusiasts & Cyclists
Hybrid bikes are generally suitable for the park's varied terrain. With over 10 miles of interconnected trails, cyclists and hikers can create longer routes to explore more of the park's 1,700 acres.
The park's year-round tree canopy on 80% of the trails means it's enjoyable even on hotter days, and you won't get too wet if it rains. 🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
Picnic areas are abundant and offer a relaxed setting for enjoying a meal outdoors.
Simply strolling along the less-trafficked trails or finding a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the sounds of nature can be incredibly rejuvenating. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those who prefer a smoother experience, the Harrison Trace Trail is a paved path ideal for biking and walking, connecting different areas of the park. Some visitors have noted that trail marking can be inconsistent, so having a map or navigation app is highly recommended to ensure you stay on your intended route. Beyond the main trails, the park features remnants of its past, including old army rubble piles and barracks, which can add an interesting historical dimension to your exploration.
Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely bike ride, Fort Harrison State Park provides diverse options for outdoor enthusiasts. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if venturing onto unpaved paths. Unique Park Amenities
For a truly distinctive experience, the Indianapolis Salt Cave provides a tranquil environment with potential health benefits derived from Himalayan salt. The park also caters to families with playgrounds, including one with a unique in-ground slide, ensuring younger visitors have plenty of fun.
These diverse offerings make Fort Harrison State Park more than just a typical hiking destination, providing a range of activities for different interests and ages.Planning Your Visit
For those looking to make the most of their visit, consider the best times to go. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the trails.
Weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more serene experience. 
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