Kayaking for Kids Open
Fort Harrison State Park
4.7(5,208)4.7 out of 5 stars, 5208 reviews Indianapolis, IN
About Fort Harrison State Park
A sprawling state park offering a diverse mix of outdoor activities for families, including well-maintained hiking trails, playgrounds with unique features, horse rides, and historical exploration.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: A multi-hour family day trip combining physical activity and playGroup gatherings and outdoor celebrations in shelter housesToddlers and preschoolers who will enjoy the playground and in-ground slideSchool-aged children interested in horse rides, the visitor center, and spotting wildlifeTeens and adults looking for more challenging, winding hill trails or jogging paths
Why families love it
- Playground featuring an in-ground slide
- Clean and well-stocked restroom facilities
- Scenic trails suitable for walking, jogging, birding, and spotting local flora and fauna
- Horse rides and historical barracks/stalls to explore
- Spacious layout that prevents trails from feeling crowded even on busy days
- In-ground playground slide
Insider tips
- Prepare to pay a slightly higher gate fee than other state parks in the system
- Bring sun protection if planning to use the picnic areas during hot summer days
- Check the park's operating hours in advance to plan your visit timeline
- Look out for seasonal park-organized hikes which may offer complimentary treats like hot chocolate
Good to know before you go
- Using the unshaded picnic areas during the hottest midday hours of summer if sensitive to heat
- Gate entry fee is $1 more expensive than other Indiana State Parks
- Picnic areas lack shade trees, making them hot during summer months
- Park operating hours may conflict with some evening or early morning schedules
- Crowds
- Can attract many visitors on holidays and weekends, but the park's large size keeps trails and areas from feeling congested
- Value
- Requires a gate fee that is $1 higher than standard Indiana State Parks, but offers high value through clean restrooms, diverse trails, and well-maintained play areas.
- Food
- Picnic areas and shelter houses are available for bringing your own food
- Accessibility
- Clean restrooms with fully stocked stalls
- Safety
- Staffed park gate entrance
What parents say
"Great park! I can't believe I waited so long to visit. I went for my New Years Day hike. I was disappointed that there were employees at the gate in New Years it being a holiday and all. I was even more disappointed when she asked for the gate fee and it was 1$ 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 in"
a week ago
"We had a fantastic time exploring playgrounds, walking through the visitor center, and tromping through the woods. There are a number of nice trails through this park and the kids had a good time discovering local flora and fauna. Highly recommended."
a month ago
"I started the year off right with a first day hike at fort Harrison. There were alot of people there but it’s so big the trails weren’t crowded. Hot chocolate and cookies were offered. Very nice."
3 months ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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