With 1,400 acres of water and 3,900 acres of forest, Eagle Creek Park is one of the largest city parks in the nation, offering unmatched opportunities for recreation and fitness, educational programs at two nature centers, and engaging experiences such as concerts, day camps, and more for youth and adults.  
The park’s diverse range of activities caters to various interests and age groups. No matter your preference, this park has something to offer.
Beach and Swimming at Eagle Creek Park
Swimming is making a much-anticipated comeback at Eagle Creek Park after a temporary closure during previous summers due to Covid-19 and lifeguard shortages. As the largest park in Indianapolis, the return of swimming brings delight and enthusiasm to all who yearn for a cool and invigorating experience in the lake. Get ready to soak up the sun and relish the cherished days at Indy’s beloved beach again!
Watersports
Eagle Creek Park offers a wide range of water activities for those who enjoy being on the water. At the Marina, you can rent various watercraft, including canoes, kayaks, pontoon boats, row boats, paddle boats, and paddle boards. To inquire about rentals, please contact 317.327.7130.
Hiking Trails
Escape into nature and enjoy the tranquility of one of Indianapolis’ most serene settings with over 16 miles of trails at Eagle Creek Park. The park features six main hiking trails, along with additional trails at the Ornithology Center, perfect for all skill levels. Wander through charming woods filled with beech, maple, tulip, white ash, and black cherry trees. Explore open meadows and catch glimpses of the reservoir and Lilly Lake. Keep an eye out for wildlife and furry friends as you cross bridges, climb steps, and tackle a few hills.
Fitness Trail
Additionally, on the north end, you’ll find the Fitness Trail equipped with 20 exercise stations offering a total of 32 different exercises. This trail provides a one-of-a-kind experience by bringing the traditional indoor gym workout to the great outdoors.
Treetop Thrills: Go Ape Adventures
What sets this park apart from others? One standout feature is its exhilarating treetop adventure course offered by Go Ape. This sky-high escapade provides visitors with breathtaking views while testing their agility on zip lines, rope ladders, Tarzan swings – all adding up to unforgettable moments.
This exciting journey isn’t just about seeking thrills; it also helps develop teamwork and confidence-building skills that will stay with you even after your feet are back on the ground.
The course remains open from March to November, and ample parking is available at the Earth Discovery Center. Those interested in booking can check the availability online by visiting GoApe.com.
Fishing at Eagle Creek Park
This park offers a diverse range of fish species, including crappie, largemouth bass, walleye, bluegill, and channel catfish, to name a few. Anglers will find ample fishing spots both along the banks and on the water.
Notable bank fishing locations include the Marina, 42nd Street boat ramp, 56th Street causeway, Lilly Lake, and the waterfowl sanctuary. The park’s strict boat size and motor restrictions ensure calm waters, as speed boats and skiers are not permitted, allowing fishermen to enjoy a peaceful fishing experience.
Visitors can make use of the Marina, which supplies live bait, artificial lures, and fishing tackle. It’s important for anglers aged 17-64 to possess a valid Indiana State Fishing license.
Exploring Nature at the Earth Discovery Center
If you’re seeking a place where education and adventure intertwine, look no further than Eagle Creek Park’s Earth Discovery Center. Previously known as the original nature center, it has evolved into an educational hub that welcomes over 80,000 visitors annually. The park activities here are diverse and engaging.
As soon as you enter, you are likely to be greeted by fascinating creatures! It could be a snail or, during the summertime, you may even witness the incredible transformation of a caterpillar into a monarch butterfly right at the front desk. Inside the center, you will discover engaging exhibits and educational information about native Indiana plants and animals. Be enchanted by the live native reptiles, fish, and amphibians showcased in aquariums, as well as the taxidermy mounts and replicas. Keep an eye out for other wildlife ambassadors who may make special appearances during scheduled programs. When you step outside, enjoy a breathtaking view of the reservoir from the deck or embark on a memorable adventure along the nearby hiking trails.
Exhibit Hall
The Exhibit Hall is home to some of our live turtles, snakes, and other educational ambassadors, as well as a multifunctional space for field trips, public programs, art exhibits, and seasonal activities and displays.
Wet Lab Classroom
The Wet Lab Classroom is set up much like a high school science lab with stools and six lab tables, and is a great space for messier field trip activities. The Dry Lab is a multifunctional open space that is also the home base for summer daycamps. By utilizing the Exhibit Hall, the Earth Discovery Center can host up to three classrooms simultaneously.
Geothermal Pond
In 2014, the Eagle Creek Park Foundation contributed $30,000 to supplement a 3Mgives Eco Grant for construction of a geothermal pond behind the Earth Discovery Center. This allows large school groups to immerse in an elaborate pond study program to dip-net for frogs and aquatic insects, adding to their studies in the wet lab.
Eagle Creek Park Playground
There are several playgrounds located in different areas of the park – some have shelters nearby to accompany birthday parties, and there is one even by the beach. After you work up an appetite on the slides and swing set, you can enjoy some food at one of the 24 picnic sites, which are first-come, first-served.
Special Events at Eagle Creek Park
The park offers an array of special events throughout the year that cater to different interests. There’s always something happening here, from concerts featuring local bands like Wife Patrol to various other social activities.
Summer Concerts
In Concert with Nature
Experience the harmonious blend of music and nature at “In Concert with Nature,” a series of enchanting performances held every other Wednesday from May 31 to August 23.
Jazz at the Beach
Experience the soothing melodies and rhythmic beats of Jazz at the Beach, a captivating concert series held every other Wednesday from June 7 to August 30. Set against the stunning backdrop of Eagle Creek Beach, these unforgettable performances commence at 6:30 pm.
Kids Fishing Derby
This long-running event introduces youngsters to the pleasures of the ‘ol fishing hole – aka Eagle Creek Park’s Lilly Lake! Kids 4-14 are invited to this annual catch-and-release event. No fishing license is required and all participants are admitted to the park with no gate fee.
Upcoming Events at Eagle Creek Park:
What is the Eagle Creek Park Foundation?
The Eagle Creek Park Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides volunteer and financial support to Eagle Creek Park in order to promote, preserve, protect, and enhance the park for future generations to enjoy. It is not a part of the Indy Parks system, and has no authority to make or implement park policy. Find more info here.
