Main Office

EAGLE CREEK PARK OFFICE

EMERGENCy

For Emergency Dispatch: CALL  911

Non-EMERGENCy

RANGER ASSISTANCE: 317-327-3811

DNR HOTLINE

DNR HOTLINE: 317-847-4367

Eagle Creek Park OFFICE

 

LOCATION:

6515 Delong Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46278

CONTACT:

317.327.2473 (BIRD)

HOURS:

Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm
Saturday and Sunday CLOSED

This is the main office for Eagle Creek Park’s management team from Indy Parks.

The Indy Parks team works directly with the Eagle Creek Park Foundation team to assist  with things like Foundation passes, shelter rentals, and renting out the Bark Park.

For most park issues, you will need to contact the Eagle Creek Park / Indy Parks team (below).

Eagle Creek Park Foundation’s offices are ALSO located in the Eagle Creek Park Office.

We work alongside the Eagle Creek Park team from Indy Parks in the same office, but the Indy Parks team handles most issues in Eagle Creek Park.

For Membership Passes, Shelter Rentals, and Bark Park Rentals, contact the Foundation. See below for more details.

Contact Eagle Creek Park

WHEN TO CONTACT EAGLE CREEK PARK:

  • Park complaints
  • Lost & found items
  • Other park concerns
Eagle Creek Park Administration Office

7840 W 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46254

Phone:  317-327-7110
Email: IndyParksCS@indy.gov

Brittany Davis

Regional Park Manager, Indy Parks
Brittany.Davis@indy.gov

Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday

Contact Eagle Creek Park Foundation

WHEN TO CONTACT EAGLE CREEK PARK FOUNDATION:

Eagle Creek Park Foundation

7840 W 56th St, Indianapolis, IN 46254

Phone: 317-327-7116
Email: ecpf@eaglecreekpark.org

Meghan Mustin

Executive Director, Eagle Creek Park Foundation
Meghan@EagleCreekPark.org

Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday

Other Park Contacts

Contact Indy Parks and Recreation

For general Indy Parks information or complaints, please call or email Indy Parks and Recreation.

Indy Parks Customer Service Center

1720 Burdsal Parkway, Indianapolis, IN 46202

Phone:  317-327-7275

ADDITIONAL PHONE NUMBERS

Eagle Creek Outfitters: 317-327-7130

Indoor Facility Rental: 317-327-7193

Soccer Complex: 317-767-0699

Ornithology Center: 317-327-2473

Beach: 317-327-7132

Earth Discovery Center: 317-327-7148

Peace Learning Center: 317-327-7144

Eagle Creek Golf Club: 317-297-3366

GoApe Treetop Adventure: 317-520-7322

Indianapolis Rowing Center: 317-327-7100

Indianapolis Sailing Club: 317-849-0021

Parking

PARKING

PARKING AT EAGLE CREEK

 

Find Parking for your adventure

Eagle Creek Park has over 1200 parking spots, so even on the busiest days, you can find a place to park before you set off on your adventures.

Visitors should park in the available gravel, paved, and ADA spaces and should avoid parking on the grass.

In partnership with Indy Parks

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

If you’d like to find more park maps to help you plan you adventure, click the button below.

Click on the parking icons on the map below for more details

Gatehouse – 71st Street

GATEHOUSE – 71ST STREET

Gatehouse – 71st Street Entrance

 

Welcome to Eagle Creek Park

The 71st Street Gatehouse entrance is located at 7100 N Eagle Creek Pkwy 46278  – Turn South from I-65 via the 71st Street Exit. 

Here, you’ll be able to pay your admission, buy a pass, register your boat, register your dog for the bark park, and handle any other park-related issues. 

In partnership with Indy Parks

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

If you’d like to find more park maps to help you plan you adventure, click the button below.

MAP TO GATEHOUSE

PARKING AT EAGLE CREEK PARK

Gatehouse – 56th Street

GATEHOUSE – 56th STREET

Gatehouse – 56th Street Entrance

 

Welcome to Eagle Creek Park

The 56th Street Gatehouse Entrance is located at 5700 N Eagle Creek Pkwy 46254 – Turn North from West 56th Street. 

Here, you’ll be able to pay your admission, buy a pass, register your boat, register your dog for the bark park, and handle any other park-related issues. 

In partnership with Indy Parks

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

If you’d like to find more park maps to help you plan you adventure, click the button below.

MAP TO GATEHOUSE

PARKING AT EAGLE CREEK PARK

Earth Discovery Center

EARTH DISCOVERY CENTER

earth discovery center

 

ABOUT EARTH DISCOVERY CENTER:

Earth Discovery Center: With an emphasis on the youth, the Earth Discovery Center seeks to enhance environmental education for all ages!

As soon as you walk in, it’s very likely you’ll be greeted by some sort of creature! That might be a snail, frog, salamander, or during the summertime, you can even catch the morphing of a caterpillar into a monarch butterfly right at the front desk.

Inside the center, you’ll find exhibits and information about native Indiana plants and animals, including aquariums with live native reptiles, fish, amphibians, taxidermy mounts, and replicas.

Other wildlife educational ambassadors may make appearances at scheduled program times. When you venture outside, you can take in a beautiful view of the reservoir out on the deck or hop on the nearby hiking trails.

Indy Parks naturalists host field trips, public programs, events, and summer day camps.

ADMISSION:

Included with Eagle Creek Park admission

LOCATION:

5901 Delong Road, Indianapolis, IN 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7148

HOURS:

Tuesday – Saturday

10:00am-5:00pm

Sunday

1:00pm-5:00pm

 

KEY CONTRIBUTORS TO EARTH DISCOVERY CENTER

 

EAGLE CREEK PARK FOUNDATION

Lilly Endowment, Inc.

Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust

City of Indianapolis

Going Green

 

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

 

“We find that a lot of kids are really scared of nature — they come here and think they’re going into the jungle! We want them to take a walk in the park and realize that there is nothing dangerous out there. They might find some of these creatures in their own backyard, but they’re harmless and fun to learn about.”

 

Leah Frenzel, Earth Discovery Center Naturalist

ACTIVITIES + EVENTS

WILDFLOWER WEEKEND

Welcome spring with a weekend of guided hikes and programs to enjoy and learn about the beautiful wildflowers of Eagle Creek Park!

This event takes place in mid-April with a detailed schedule available by mid-March at www.indyparks.org.

Visit event page >

CELEBRATION OF NATURE

This annual exhibit showcases local artists and nature-themed paintings, photography, sculpture, wood-carving, and more! Celebration of Nature takes place the first two weeks of December.

 

PLAN A FIELD TRIP

Call for available times
We have various options for unique learning activities.  Please call us at 317-327-7148 or emailTrip scheduling takes place in mid-April with a detailed schedule available by mid-March at www.indyparks.org.

 

Follow on Facebook

Stay up to date with Programs and More

The naturalists at the Earth Discovery Center do an excellent job keeping the public up to date with programming and events. Besides the schedules and links above, following the Facebook page is one of the best ways to stay informed and engaged!

BUILDING FEATURES

  • Geothermal heating and cooling that utilizes local groundwater
  • Photocell outdoor lighting
  • Native, wildlife-friendly landscaping
  • Bike racks
  • Carpet made of recycled material
  • Eco-friendly bathrooms with motion sensor lighting, faucets, and hand dryers, as well as low-volume toilets
  • Revolving front door that helps keep cooled or heated air inside

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 for large school groups to immerse in an elaborate pond study program to dip-net for frogs and aquatic insects, which adds to their studies in the wet lab.

CLASSROOMS

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. 

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.

The walls of this unique space are covered with custom wallpaper artwork featuring several of the native plants and animals found in Eagle Creek Park.

  • Recycling containers for plastic, glass, and paper products
  • Bio-swale and swirl tank to clean storm water run-off before returning it to the reservoir

 

  • Built on the site of the old ranger station (using previously disturbed land means fewer habitats affected and less land cleared)
  • Furniture made of recycled plastic

MEET THE NATURALISTS

Dawn VanDeman

Dawn VanDeman

Earth Discovery Center Manager

Dawn is an Indianapolis native who started working at Eagle Creek Park as a seasonal naturalist back in 1994.

She attended Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts where she majored in biology and minored in studio art.

She then moved on to complete graduate work in wildlife science with Purdue University’s Department of Forestry before coming back to work full-time at Eagle Creek Park.

Favorite Things

Her favorite things about the park include the amazing diversity of park visitors, the small, hidden vernal pools teeming with fairy shrimp and baby salamanders in the spring, and the sound of loons (the bird kind) calling on the reservoir. She specializes in amphibians and reptiles, bugs and aquatic invertebrates, growing native plants for butterfly gardening, and loves answering weird questions about Indiana wildlife.

Dawn's Critters

She is also a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and shares her home with three cats, four non-releasable raccoons, one hognose snake, one dwarf siren, several hundred terrestrial isopods, and an assortment of temporary residents through the year which may include orphaned or injured raccoons, opossums, squirrels, bunnies, turtles, snakes, and bats.

Leah Frenzel

Leah Frenzel

Naturalist

Leah grew up in North Carolina where she attended North Carolina State University, and graduated with a degree in natural resources-ecosystem assessment.

After graduating, she was hired as an outdoor environmental educator with the Flat Rock River YMCA in St. Paul, Indiana. She learned to teach children to love nature while exploring the outdoors, and has been doing so ever since.

Favorite Things

She enjoys a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, identifying insects, and nature photography. As her boss describes, “Leah is awesome and likes to pin dead insects when she isn’t teaching archery or writing environmental education curricula.”

Kahli Brown

Kahli Brown

Naturalist

Kahli grew up here in Indianapolis, attending Indy Parks summer camps for many years as a kid before going to Warren Wilson College in North Carolina where she majored in Environmental Education and minored in Craft and Visual Arts.
She spent two seasons working as a field instructor with Experience Learning in West Virginia, teaching kids camping, backpacking and natural science skills in the Monongahela National Forest. Afterwards, Kahli moved back to Indy and started working at Eagle Creek Park as a Naturalist in 2023 continuing to foster connections between people and the natural world around them.

 

Favorite Things

Kahli enjoys going hiking, spotting critters, petting moss, climbing big rocks, listening to birds, exploring caves, weaving baskets, felting wool, making paper, binding books, and creating stop motion animations

Katie Kolcun

Katie Kolcun

Naturalist

Katie is the newest member of the EDC team. She is pictured with a Tegu she has rescued and cares for at home. Katie’s bio is coming soon!

 

Favorite Things

Katie is the newest member of the EDC team, bio to come soon!

Ornithology Center

ORNITHOLOGY CENTER

Carson, Juvenile Bald Eagle

 

ADMISSION:

Included with Eagle Creek Park admission

LOCATION:

6515 Delong Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46278

CONTACT:

317.327.2473 (BIRD)

HOURS:

Tuesday – Saturday

10:00am-5:00pm

Sunday

1:00pm-5:00pm

ORNITHOLOGY

Ornithology is the study of birds – Eagle Creek Park is a birding hotspot!

Meet the Naturalists >

ABOUT THE Ornithology Center:

Every year, Eagle Creek Park’s Ornithology Center attracts from all over the U.S. and numerous countries worldwide!

Nestled just minutes away from downtown Indianapolis, visitors can find birds like bald eagles, great blue herons, double-crested cormorants, grebes, loons, and other amazing wildlife in the city.

The Ornithology Center sits on top of a bluff overlooking the bird sanctuary to the West – a large area of retained water separated from the reservoir by a cofferdam.

The facility is surrounded by a diverse habitat of deciduous woods, ponds, streams, grassland and wetlands, which makes birding rewarding at any time of year.

Support the Ornithology Center

The Ornithology Center Fund, managed by the Eagle Creek Park Foundation, supports the care of raptor ambassadors, staff training, educational programming and much more.

Consider supporting the Ornithology Center Fund today!

Ornithology Center’s mission:

By providing exemplary care, husbandry, training, and enrichment for our Raptor Ambassadors, we hope to foster a sense of wonder, enthusiasm, and stewardship for the natural world and to inspire action towards conserving the species that visitors encounter. 

The Nation Audubon Society deems Eagle Creek Park an Important Bird Area, recognizing the Park’s important habitat for migratory and native birds alike. Check out their map of Important Bird Areas here.

OPERATING UNDER INDIANA DNR EDUCATION AND USFWS EAGLE EXHIBITION PERMITS.

 

Key Contributors to Ornithology Center

 

EAGLE CREEK PARK FOUNDATION
Amos Butler Audubon Society
Nature Sanctuary & Center, Inc
Wild Birds Unlimited
Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

 

“Eagle Creek Park is excellent for spring songbird migration, with 30 species of warblers possible on a good day in the beautiful deciduous woods.”

 

– National Geographic’s Guide to Birding Spots of the United States

ACTIVITIES + EVENTS

Sunday Morning Bird Walks

Sundays, 9 – 11am 
Bird walks are led by members of the Amos W. Butler Audubon Society. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather! Walks take place rain or shine.

PLAN A FIELD TRIP

Call for available times
Please call 317-327-2473 or email to schedule. Scheduling happens mid-April with schedules available by mid-March at www.indyparks.org.

BUILDING FEATURES

Outdoor Migration Game

Follow the flyways of your favorite birds and face some obstacles along the way!

The Ornithology Center’s very own Kevin Carlsen designed this interactive educational area right outside of the Ornithology Center to supplement what children learn about migration in the classroom.

It’s a great way for families and children to gain a better understanding of the challenges birds face en route to their breeding ground.

The self-guided tour navigates by use of ropes, balance beams, climbing walls, and streams – all mimicking hazards birds might experience during their travels.

Observation Decks

There are three amazing observation decks at the Ornithology Center.

On the south end of the building, facing East there is a large outdoor observation deck and bird checklist with a detailed park map. Visitors can find out what birds have been spotted in the park, and learn how to locate them on a map.

From the back indoor observation room, facing East, you’ll find stunning views of the bird sanctuary, where it’s common to see a wide variety of birds, including up to 21 species of ducks, on their journey North.

From the North-facing indoor observation room, you can watch residents and migratory birds visit the bird feeders and hummingbird garden, and others, that find the water feature for a cool drink or quick bath.

Hands-On Exhibits

Inside of the air-conditioned building, there are displays and several hands-on kiosks.

Guests can learn more about individual birds, their calls, and migration patterns.

There is also an interactive detailed map of the park that shows where the best birding trails are located.

Support The Birds

The Ornithology Center Fund, managed by the Eagle Creek Park Foundation, supports the care of raptor ambassadors, staff training, and much more. Consider supporting the OC Fund today – Adopt A Raptor!

Indiana Birding Links

Special thanks to Ornithology Center donors Amos Butler Audubon, Nature Sanctuary & Center Inc, Wild Birds Unlimited and Nina Mason Pulliam.

Building History

The original building served as the private library of J.K. Lilly, and then transitioned into Eagle Creek Park’s Nature Center for 30 years.

In 2010, it reopened as the Ornithology Center to focus primarily on birds and birdwatching.The Foundation funded all of the equipment, materials, and taxidermy used for the renovation.

That same year, the Indiana Parks and Recreation Association recognized the Ornithology Center as an “Outstanding Facility” for notable buildings and recreation complexes completed that year (costing less than $250,000).

Part of the building revival included developing an 800-square-foot exhibit hall to feature four distinct habitats (forest, grassland, pond, and wetland), which displays approximately 100 taxidermy birds in their natural settings complete with tranquil sounds of nature. The birds showcased are native to Indiana and for the most part, can all be seen in the park.

Since then, around 3,000 students study the beauty and behavior of birds every year through live bird of prey programs at schools, or during field trips to the Ornithology Center.

In addition, 150+ public programs are offered throughout the year as well. A new bird game was introduced recently by the Ornithology Center’s very own Kevin Carlsen, right in front of the facility.

MEET THE NATURALISTS

Jenna McElroy (she/her)

Jenna McElroy (she/her)

Park Manager, Ornithology Center

Jenna has worked at Eagle Creek since 2015 and is now the manager of the Ornithology Center.

More about Jenna

Jenna grew up in Greenwood, Indiana and attended Center Grove High School where she was both a show choir geek and a science nerd. Her parents were nature lovers and instilled that passion in Jenna and her sister from a very young age. When Jenna was in middle school, their family got into birding. Bedtime stories now involved reading bird guides, and, instead of listening to music in the car, they would listen to bird song CDs – and Jenna loved it! She earned her bachelor’s in biology from the University of Indianapolis and master’s in environmental science from Indiana University, focusing in Fish and Wildlife Ecology.  

Jenna has worked at Eagle Creek since 2015 and is now the manager of the Ornithology Center. In 2021, she passed the exam to become a Certified Professional Bird Trainer through the International Avian Trainers Certification Board and loves working with the raptor ambassadors at the Ornithology Center. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, gardening, hanging out with her chickens, spending time with family, puzzles, camping, and attending show choir competitions with her husband – go North Central! 

Donna Riner (she/her)

Donna Riner (she/her)

Assistant Park Manager, Ornithology Center

Donna thrives in the outdoors, connecting with nature and guiding others as they explore & discover Indiana’s diverse ecosystems.

MORE about Donna

Although she never considered herself a birder before joining the Ornithology Center, she now finds joy in spotting birds wherever she goes! Donna began her journey at Eagle Creek Park as an Environmental Education Camp Counselor at the Earth Discovery Center during the summers of 2020 and 2021. In 2021, she became a Naturalist, and in 2022, she was promoted to Assistant Park Manager of the Ornithology Center. She is passionate about creating fun and memorable nature-based camp experiences for youth each summer. Donna’s favorite part about her job is working with the center’s naturalists because she is constantly inspired by their creativity, passion, & knowledge of the natural world!   

Recently certified as a Forest Therapy Guide, Donna integrates mental health awareness and the benefits of nature connection into all her programs, encouraging participants to foster relationships to place, each other, and themselves, while in nature. Advocating for language accessibility at Eagle Creek Park, Donna fosters connections with Spanish speaking visitors through bilingual nature programming and collaborates with ASL student interpreters to ensure inclusive community events are prioritized at the Ornithology Center.  

Her background in environmental sciences includes forest research in New Hampshire’s White Mountains and studying soil ecology in the cloud forests of Monteverde, Costa Rica. She also gained hands-on experience in farming, teaching, and beekeeping while apprenticing with an urban farmer in Indianapolis. Donna graduated from DePauw University with a degree in Environmental Biology in 2020. In her free time, Donna loves attending concerts, gardening, practicing Spanish, skiing (both snow and water), playing volleyball, and cooking on a campfire amongst friends. 

Aidan Rominger (he/him)

Aidan Rominger (he/him)

Naturalist, Ornithology Center

Aidan was born and raised in Indianapolis, IN, and has been visiting Eagle Creek his entire life.

More About Aidan

Since the young age of 4, he was fascinated with animals, with a particular fascination for birds. He started seriously birding when he was 11, after receiving his first pair of binoculars and a digital camera. Aidan always credits former Eagle Creek Ornithology Center naturalist, Kevin Carlsen, for kickstarting his birding career, acting as his birding mentor early on. At the age of 14, Aidan became the youngest birder in Indiana to see over 300 species of birds! Following his big year, he was awarded Indiana young birder of the year in 2015.  

Aidan has also participated in multiple breeding bird surveys including two for Eagle Creek (2017 & 2019) in which he added 3 new species to the park’s breeding bird species list: Chestnut-sided warbler, Veery, and Fish Crow. 

During his senior year of high school, Aidan was also asked by Purdue ornithologist Barny Dunning to conduct breeding bird surveys for Purdue’s Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment at the Hoosier National Forest, for which he added three new breeding bird species: Blue-headed Vireo, Ruffed Grouse, and Black-billed Cuckoo.  

In 2022, Aidan graduated from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Biology. 

In 2024, Aidan received a grant from the Amos Butler Audubon Society to manage the habitat surrounding the Ice Skating Pond at Eagle Creek Park, his goal is to transform the habitat from a bottomland swamp habitat to a new wetland/marsh habitat. One of his major goals is to bring back a species extirpated from central Indiana since the 1980’s, King Rails, which nested on the pond at this time. His main goal is to increase the overall bird species biodiversity within the area by transforming this area into a much-needed marsh habitat. 

Frank Brown (he/him)

Frank Brown (he/him)

Naturalist, Ornithology Center

Frank grew up in Indianapolis, where his love for the outdoors began at a young age, inspired by countless hours spent exploring nature.

More about Frank

His passion for sharing that experience with others led him to pursue a degree in Education, graduating with a Bachelor of Science from Fisk University in 2019. 

Frank has been part of the Eagle Creek Ornithology Center team since 2023, where he specializes in environmental education. He believes that fostering a deep connection to nature is key to inspiring future generations of conservationists. Through his engaging programs, Frank shares his enthusiasm for the natural world with visitors of all ages, creating hands-on learning experiences that encourage curiosity and stewardship. 

While he enjoys all aspects of outdoor education, Frank is particularly passionate about connecting people to nature in a way that feels accessible and transformative. He continuously seeks new ways to bridge the gap between people and wildlife, helping them understand the value and wonder of Indiana’s natural ecosystems. 

In his free time, Frank practices martial arts, creates tabletop role-playing games, and enjoys hiking the trails around Eagle Creek Park. 

Zach Dankert (he/him)

Zach Dankert (he/him)

Naturalist, Ornithology Center

Zach is the newest member of the Ornithology Center team and is excited to learn about caring for the raptors!

More about Zach

Zach grew up in Cicero, just north of Indianapolis, and went to college in Holland, MI. Though always having a love of animal care, it was in college he discovered a complimentary enjoyment in environmental education. These interests have led to positions at various educational facilities and most recently to the role of Seasonal Naturalist at the Ornithology Center!  

Zach is also an aspiring poet, and his passions of writing and the outdoors have merged through Nature Writing Workshops he facilitates through the Ornithology Center. While working at Eagle Creek Park, he hopes to help guests learn, enjoy, and protect this invaluable natural space. He also is excited to gain experience in raptor care! While not at the park, Zach enjoys reading, going to coffee shops, and attending literary events around the city. One of these days he hopes to attend a dance class.  

Ornithology Center Gallery

Trails

TRAILS

View of reservoir from CofferDam Trail

SUPPORT THE TRAILS

Whether you love the Red Trail, West Side Hiking Trail, or ADA paths, Eagle Creek Park’s Trail Crew is responsible for maintaining them.

Donations to the Trail Fund are used exclusively for trail maintenance and can only be invested in the trails at Eagle Creek Park.

The Eagle Creek Park Foundation oversees and ensures all funds are dedicated solely to trail upkeep or expansion.

 

Learn More > 

In partnership with Indy Parks

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

Plan your adventure

TRAIL SAFETY

NO MOTOR VEHICLES

No motor vehicles of any kind are allowed on the running and hiking trails. This includes cars, trucks, SUV’s, motorcycles, ATV’s, or any other form of transportation that uses a motor. 

NO bicycles, etc.

The hiking and running trails are for hiking and running. No bicycles, scooters, skateboards or other modes of wheeled transportation are allowed on the trails. There are specific bike paths for  bicycles.

IF YOU GET LOST . . .

Use one of the handy trail maps below to plan your visit in advance. Feel free to print it out and keep it with you, as paper never runs out of batteries. If you are lost, contact Ranger Assistance at 317-327-3811.

ADA ACCESSIBILITY

The West Side Trail project includes two ADA-accessible trails,

pedestrian bridges and scenic overlooks.

East Side Trails

The East Side of Eagle Creek Park contains the majority of the park trails, amenities, and both nature centers. The East Side can be thought of as the “main park”

West Side Trails

The West Side Trail Complex was completed in 2024. The park’s West Side contains the Eagle Creek Golf Course, Eagle’s Crest Nature Preserve, and Starling Nature Preserve. Though less traveled, the West Side offers two ADA trails, a 5-mile through stunning canopy.

ADOPT A TRAIL

Your donation helps support Eagle Creek Park Foundation’s mission to Promote, Protect, Preserve and Enhance Eagle Creek Park!

Explore Top Hikes on

Top Hikes East Side

Check out which trails All Trails users like most on the East Side of Eagle Creek Park.

Waterfowl Sanctuary (Cofferdam) Loop

2.4 mi (easy)

Red Trail Loop

6.75 mi (moderate)

Top Hikes West Side

Check out which trails All Trails users like most on the West Side of Eagle Creek Park.

Scott Starling Nature Sanctuary

ADA accessible 0.6 mi (easy)

Scott Starling via Eagle’s Crest Loop

1.9 mi (easy)

DOWNLOAD TRAIL MAPS

PARK TRAIL MAP

RUNNING COURSE MAP

WEST SIDE HIKING TRAILS

ORNITHOLOGY CENTER TREE MAP

EARTH DISCOVERY CENTER TRAILS

FISHING MAP

STATE NATURE PRESERVES

GREENWAYS MAP

DONATE

Your donation helps support Eagle Creek Park Foundation's mission to Promote, Protect, Preserve and Enhance Eagle Creek Park!

West Side Hiking Trails

WEST SIDE HIKING TRAILS

Members on West Side Hiking Trail

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

TRAILHEAD ACCESS

Starting April 21, 2025: Automatic gates will be in place at the three West Side Trail access points. Visitors can enter with an annual pass or pay a $6 fee by credit card.

Eagle’s Crest 

7201 Fishback Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46278 >

Scott Starling Nature Sanctuary

8245 Wilson Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46278 >

Bear Overlook

8600 W. 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46234 >

West Side Trail FAQs

Get informed about the changes coming to the West Side!

Paid Entry Starting April 21st, 2025?

Starting April 21st, 2025, three automatic gates will be in place at each access point for the West Side Hiking Trail complex (Bear Overlook, Scott Starling, and Eagle’s Crest). These gates accept annual Eagle Creek Park Passes and Foundation Passes and credit cards.

While there has been an automatic gate at Bear Overlook, since March of 2023, starting April 21st, 2025 a new scanner will be in place that will function much more smoothly.

You may seen these helpful signs as you enter or exit

.

Bear Overlook Entry?

To enter Bear Overlook, you can: 1. Scan your annual pass – Eagle Creek Park Pass or Foundation Pass 2. Pay upon entry using a credit card ($6).

When you leave, approach the exit gate arm slowly, the gate arm will open automatically.

Eagle's Crest Entry?

This is a Pay Upon Exit Gate.

To enter Eagle’s Crest, approach the gate slowly, and it will open as you get close. You will have 5 minutes after you enter before you’ll be charged (annual pass holders won’t be charged).

For access to Eagle’s Crest 1. Scan your annual pass – Eagle Creek Park Pass or Foundation Pass 2. Pay upon exit using a credit card ($6). If paying with a credit card, be sure to press the “Push for Ticket” button and keep your ticket so you can pay as you leave.

 

Scott Starling Entry?

This is a Pay Upon Exit Gate.

To enter Scott Starling, approach the gate slowly, and it will open as you get close. You will have 5 minutes after you enter before you’ll be charged (annual pass holders won’t be charged).

For access to Scott Starling 1. Scan your annual pass – Eagle Creek Park Pass or Foundation Pass 2. Pay upon exit using a credit card ($6). If paying with a credit card, be sure to press the “Push for Ticket” button and keep your ticket so you can pay as you leave.

 

Maps?

You can access a map for the West Side Hiking Trail complex here >

Eagle Creek’s Best Kept Secret

About the West Side Hiking Trail

Eagle Creek Park’s west side, a hidden gem since its 1972 opening, gained prominence during the 1987 Pan Am Games, where archery was hosted near Eagle’s Crest.

Today, visitors can explore three ADA-accessible trails, two nature preserves (Eagle’s Crest and Starling), and the scenic 5-mile trunk trail that stretches from north to south.

The main trail provides a peaceful escape under a lush canopy, offering a serene retreat from everyday life.

We hope park goers find time and space on Eagle Creek’s West Side Hiking Trails to relax, unwind, and connect with nature.

Read more about the trail

The West Side Hiking Trail project, first envisioned by John Pankhurst in the 1980s, was included in the 1997 Eagle Creek Park strategic plan. In 2014, the Eagle Creek Park Foundation voted to move forward with securing funding for the trails. After years of planning and fundraising, a $2.6 million Lilly Endowment grant in 2018 brought the vision to life. Trail construction began in 2019 and continued through the COVID-19 pandemic, with completion of the trunk trail and the ADA loops by 2022. By 2024, final additions, including automatic gates, signage, and a dedicated podcast, were introduced.

Wander on the West Side

ADA TRAILS

The West Side Trail Complex features 3 ADA-compliant trails.

Scott Starling Nature Preserve

Explore this gallery of images taken of the scenery and migratory birds from the nature preserve – via the ADA Starling Trail.

Exploring the West Side Hiking Trail

Foundation Members stop in a massive tulip grove in the northwest portion of the West Side Hiking trail. Marty Risch, former park ranger, environmental scientist, and life-long lover of Eagle Creek Park teaches members about the amazing ecology through which the trail cuts.

Listen to the Trailer Episode

John Pankhurst lays out the scope of Season one of Nature Notes. He’s the Director Emerita of the Eagle Creek Park Foundation and self-proclaimed “Chief Sheepdog”. John is one of central figures behind the entire West Side trail project.

Foundation Podcast

Eagle Creek Nature Notes
The podcast helps you plan your next adventure to Eagle Creek Park.

Season One of our podcast, Eagle Creek Nature Notes, is now available! This season is dedicated to the West Side of Eagle Creek Park and was made possible by funding from the West Side Trail grant.

DOWNLOAD TRAIL MAPS

PARK TRAIL MAP

RUNNING COURSE MAP

WEST SIDE HIKING TRAILS

ORNITHOLOGY CENTER TREE MAP

EARTH DISCOVERY CENTER TRAILS

FISHING MAP

STATE NATURE PRESERVES

GREENWAYS MAP

Fitness Trail

FITNESS TRAIL

FITNESS TRAIL AT EAGLE CREEK PARK

 

In partnership with Indy Parks

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

 

A WILD WAY TO GET HEALTHY AND FIT

Ready to workout in the wild? Visitors can jump on the trail near the 56th Street entrance, and enjoy a workout with 32 self-guided exercises, along with some help from signage on how to monitor your heart rate.

The Foundation recently provided $9,200 (half of the total cost) to replace 20 old exercise stations with new equipment, along with signage supplied by Indy Parks.

 

ADOPT A TRAIL

Whether you love the Fitness Trail, West Side Hiking Trail, or ADA paths, our Trail Crew is responsible for maintaining them.

Donations to the Trail Fund are used exclusively for maintenance and can only be invested in the trails at Eagle Creek Park.

FITNESS TRAIL AT EAGLE CREEK PARK

 

FITNESS TRAIL

With 20 exercise stations and a total of 32 exercises, the Fitness Trail on the north end provides a unique opportunity for a vigorous hike as it brings the indoor gym outdoors.

Signage at each station explains every exercise and how to monitor your heart rate.

DOWNLOAD TRAIL MAPS

RUNNING COURSE MAP

PARK TRAIL MAP

WEST SIDE HIKING TRAILS

GREENWAYS MAP

IRON EAGLE PADDLE RUN

 

IRON EAGLE PADDLE RUN

This all-ages adventure showcases the trails and reservoir at Eagle Creek as participants run-paddle-run their way through the park, all while raising money for the Eagle Creek Park Foundation.

Run 2.6 miles on a wooded trail from the swimming beach to the marina, hop in a canoe or kayak for a 1.5 mile loop on the water and then hit the trails again for a 2.6 mile run back to the swimming beach. Both individual and relay teams can participate. 

All participants receive a medal, t-shirt and access to the Quaff ON! Brewing CO. post-race party.

EXPLORE MORE PLACES

Main Office

Main Office

EAGLE CREEK PARK OFFICEEMERGENCyFor Emergency Dispatch: CALL  911Non-EMERGENCyRANGER ASSISTANCE: 317-327-3811DNR HOTLINEDNR HOTLINE: 317-847-4367Eagle Creek Park OFFICE  LOCATION: 6515 Delong Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46278 CONTACT: 317.327.2473 (BIRD) HOURS:...

Parking

Parking

Where to park when traveling to Eagle Creek Park.

Trails

Trails

Check out the trails at Eagle Creek Park.

Fitness Trail

Fitness Trail

FITNESS TRAILFITNESS TRAIL AT EAGLE CREEK PARK   In partnership with Indy ParksFor Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.  A WILD WAY TO GET HEALTHY AND FIT Ready to workout in the wild? Visitors can jump on the trail near the 56th Street...

Playgrounds

Playgrounds

Have some fun at our Playgrounds throughout the park!

Shelters

Shelters

Find and rent shelters throughout the park.

Bark Park

Bark Park

The Bark Park, specifically for 4-legged friends!

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Beach

Beach

Go for a swim at the beach at Eagle Creek Park!

Sailing Club

Sailing Club

Come sail away with us: The Eagle Creek Sailing Club.

Golf Club

Golf Club

Fore! Play a round at the Eagle Creek Golf Club.

Airport

Airport

Flying in for a visit? Learn about Eagle Creek Airport.

Playgrounds

PLAYGROUNDS

Playground no. 5

 

Kids can run wild at eagle creek park

Eagle Creek Park has 5 playgrounds, many of which are located near shelters.

Eagle Creek Park’s playgrounds are a great place to bring the kiddos and let them run wild – in the wild!

 

In partnership with Indy Parks

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

If you’d like to find more park maps to help you plan you adventure, click the button below. Playgrounds are marked on the map!

FIND A PLAYGROUND

PARKING AT EAGLE CREEK PARK

Marina Overlook

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If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Eagle’s Hideaway

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THIS IS AN IMAGE CAPTION

 

SUBTITLE GOES HERE

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Shelters

SHELTER RENTALS

Shelter Rentals

 

Shelter Rentals

The park has 15 covered shelters available to accommodate anywhere from 40–200 people for gatherings. All of these reserved shelters have at least one grill and come equipped with picnic tables.

Some have a playground and public restrooms nearby, and others are handicap accessible and come with electricity. For more information on shelter rentals, call 317.327.7110.

Since the park hosts many events like walks, runs, and triathlons during the hours of 7–11am, be advised that if you reserve a shelter on a day that the park has an event during those hours, we suggest you arrive after 11am that day.

Shelters for Rent

RENTALS

Rent bikes, boats, picnic shelters, and amazing indoor meeting facilities. You can even rent out our Bark Park!

The park has 15 covered shelters available to accommodate anywhere from 40–200 people for gatherings.

All of these reserved shelters have at least one grill and come equipped with picnic tables.

For more information on shelter rentals, call 317.327.7110.

Eagle Creek Park’s Hideaway and Marina Overlook facilities offer a beautiful retreat for reunions, picnics, corporate outings, weddings and/or receptions all year-round.

For more information on indoor facilities, call 317.327.7193. Please also review the Indoor Facility Rental Policies.

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

Choosing a Shelter

Eagle Creek Park’s variety of shelters can serve various functions for family gatherings, weddings, retreats, and more.

We recommend you look at the interactive map and the images and descriptions of the shelters before deciding which shelter to rent.

Note that shelters vary in size, and some have access to electricity, nearby playgrounds, and restrooms, while others do not.

Also, be prepared to have a backup shelter in mind, especially when booking weekends or holidays.

SHELTER SPECIFICATIONS

CLICK BELOW TO VIEW SHELTER DETAILS

 

A      B           D           G      H

 

Mt. Pleasant (S/M/N)    Lilly Lake    Beach    Earth Discovery Center    Dandy Trail

 

  Map Options      Full-Screen      Share Map     Navigate

A+B

Shelters A & B (Walnut Grove)

$135 Marion County resident
$160 non-resident

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZE: 50′ x 30′ (both shelters)

ACCOMODATES: 100 people each

TABLES: 15 each

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: Yes

ELECTRIC: (2) Outlets each

GRILL: One 12×29″ charcoal grill each

OTHER FEATURES: Playground nearby

C+D

Shelters C & D (CiRCLE DRIVE)

$135 Marion County resident
$160 non-resident

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZE: 45′ x 25′ (both shelters)

ACCOMODATES: 80 people each

TABLES: 10 each

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: Yes

ELECTRIC: (4) Outlets each

GRILL: One 13×29″ charcoal grill in each

OTHER FEATURES: Public restrooms nearby

E

Shelter E (Reed's Place)

$135 Marion County resident
$160 non-resident

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZE: 45′ x 25′

ACCOMMODATES: 80 people

TABLES: 10

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: Yes

ELECTRIC: (4) Outlets

GRILL: One 13×29″ charcoal grill

OTHER FEATURES: Port O Let nearby

G

Shelter G (Hardwood Ridge)

$135 Marion County resident
$160 non-resident

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZE: 45′ x 25′

ACCOMMODATES: 80 people

TABLES: 10

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: Yes

ELECTRIC: (4) Outlets

GRILL: One 14×18″ charcoal grill

OTHER FEATURES: Restroom nearby

H

Shelter H (Pine Grove)

$135 Marion County resident
$160 non-resident

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZE: 45′ x 25′

ACCOMMODATES: 60 people

TABLES: 10

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: Yes

ELECTRIC: (4) Outlets

GRILL: One 14×18″ charcoal grill

OTHER FEATURES: Restroom nearby

MT PLEASANT

Three Shelters – South, Middle and North

Mt Pleasant Shelters (South, Middle + North)

$135 Marion County resident each
$160 non-resident each

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZE: 45′ x 25′ (All three same size)

ACCOMMODATES:  80 people in each shelter. Adjacent areas will accommodate an additional 100.

TABLES: 10 in each shelter

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: All Shelters

ELECTRIC:

South – (2) Outlets

Middle – (2) Outlets

North – (4) Outlets

GRILL: Each shelter has two 16×16″ charcoal grills

OTHER FEATURES: Restroom nearby, playground nearby

LILLY LAKE

LILLY LAKE SHELTER

$135 Marion County resident 
$160 non-resident

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZE: 28′ Hexagon

ACCOMMODATES:  40 people

TABLES: 8

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: All Shelters

ELECTRIC:  (2) Outlets

GRILL: 13×29″ charcoal grill

OTHER FEATURES: Restroom nearby

BEACH

BEACH SHELTER

$285 Marion County resident / $340 non-resident

SPECIFICATIONS

AVAILABLE: 10:00am-Dusk

SIZE: 80’x40′

ACCOMMODATES:  200 people

TABLES: 24

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: All Shelters

ELECTRIC:  (2) Outlets, Lights

GRILL: 13×29″ charcoal grill

OTHER FEATURES: Restroom nearby

EARTH DISCOVERY CENTER

Earth Discovery Center Shelter

$135 Marion County resident
$160 non-resident

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZE: 40′ Hexagon

ACCOMMODATES:  80 people

TABLES: 10

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: All Shelters

ELECTRIC:  None

GRILL: 28×36″ charcoal grill

OTHER FEATURES: Restroom nearby

DANDY TRAIL

Dandy Trail Shelter

$135 Marion County resident
$160 non-resident

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZE: 40′ Hexagon

ACCOMMODATES:  80 people

TABLES: 10

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE: All Shelters

ELECTRIC:  None

GRILL: 28×36″ charcoal grill

OTHER FEATURES: Portolet nearby

Amphitheater

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If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Bark Park

BARK PARK

Gordon Gilmer Bark Park

Outside the Bark Park, dogs must be on leash at all times.

No dogs allowed inside Park Buildings (except Service Animals)

ABOUT THE BARK PARK:

Eagle Creek’s Bark Park is a place where owners and their four-legged friends can socialize and enjoy the company of others off-leash!

To enter the Bark Park, your dog must be equipped with a “pooch pass.”

Pooch Passes consist of a tag for your dog and a gate access card for you.

The Pooch Pass tag can be worn on the dog or be carried by the dog owner and in plain view at all times.

Dogs are allows in the main park, according the Indy Park’s rules >

In partnership with Indy Parks

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

ADMISSION:

Pooch Pass required (includes tag for dog and gate access for owner)

LOCATION:

5900 N. High School Road, Indianapolis, IN 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

HOURS:

Open during normal  park operating hours (see below)

How to purchase a bark park “pooch pass”:

You’ll need to bring your dog’s vaccination records (rabies, distemper, parvo, and bordetella) to the Park Office located at 7840 W 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46254. To expedite getting your “pooch pass”, bring a completed copy of the application.

 Yearly Pass Fees (January – December)
1st dog $75
2nd & 3rd dogs $37.50 each
Replacement tags & cards: $10
VIP Pass* $125 (never discounted)
Daily pass $5
Discounted Passes
After June 1 $55
After September 1 $40
2nd & 3rd dog 50% discount

VIP Pooch Passes include access to all four Indy Parks. They are available for purchase at Broad Ripple Park only for $125 (includes Eagle Creek Park, Paul Ruster Park, Broad Ripple Park, and Smock Park).

Bring your furry friend to the Dog Park.

About Gordon Gilmer and MacKenzie

Bring your furry friend to the Dog Park.
Bark Park History

The bark park was named after Gordon Gilmer, a former city councilor (’71–’99) before he retired from the Pike Township City-County Council.

Gordon played an instrumental role in helping Pike Township develop into a thriving area of growth for the city.

He saw the great influence Eagle Creek Park brought to the city’s northwest side, and sought to protect it by limiting development around the park.

The carved statue at the front of the bark park represents MacKenzie, his beloved yellow labrador retriever, which was updated in 2014 during a rededication ceremony celebrating its 15-year anniversary.

Lilly Lake

TITLE GOES HERE

THIS IS AN IMAGE CAPTION

 

SUBTITLE GOES HERE

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Waterfowl Sanctuary

TITLE GOES HERE

THIS IS AN IMAGE CAPTION

 

SUBTITLE GOES HERE

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Eagle Creek Outfitters

EAGLE CREEK OUTFITTERS

Kayaks for Rent at the Marina

 

Eagle Creek Outfitters 

Wheel Fun Rentals

Eagle Creek Outfitters is your one-stop shop for outdoor recreation at Eagle Creek Park! Start your self-guided tour by renting a single/double/pedal kayak, canoe, sup board, paddle boat, small jon boat, small pontoon boat, or E-bike down at the Marina.

During summertime, we offer Guided Sunset Paddles on Tuesday evenings. Daily Specials are available June through August

Team-building programs are also available. They can vary in length from 2 hours to half-day experiences, and can be customized for large groups. All paddling and safety gear is provided with every piece of equipment.

Eagle Creek Outfitters also sells beverages, snacks, ice cream bars/cones, and live bait (night crawlers, red worms, and bee moths), and has restrooms on-site.

Foundation members get $10 off!

Eagle Creek Park Foundation is thrilled to partner with Eagle Creek Outfitters to offer our members $10 off a one-hour kayak rental and $25 off a two-hour pontoon rental. Just show the kind folks at Eagle Creek Outfitters your membership stickers to apply the discount. We appreciate their support!

  Map Options      Full-Screen      Share Map     Navigate

LOCATION:

7602 Walnut Point Rd >

CONTACT:

317.207.1724 >

eco@317outfitters.com >

Hours

April – Friday 12pm–7pm, Sat & Sun 10am–7pm

May – Mon-Fri 12pm–7pm, Sat & Sun 10am–7pm

June & July – Mon-Fri 9am–8pm, Sat & Sun 8am–8pm

August – Mon-Fri 10am–8pm, Sat & Sun 9am–8pm

September – Mon–Fri 12Pm–7pm, Sat & Sun 10am–7pm

October – Friday 12pm–6pm, Sat & Sun 10am–6pm

Check website for exact dates and times
LAST RENTAL 1 HOUR PRIOR TO CLOSE

Iron Eagle

Iron Eagle Paddle & Run

The Eagle Creek Park Foundation hosts the annual Iron Eagle Paddle & Run, a fundraiser for the Trail Fund. The event features a 2.6-mile run, 1.5-mile paddle, and another 2.6-mile run. Participants can compete solo or in teams, with rentals and race support provided by Eagle Creek Outfitters.

 

 

Learn More about Iron Eagle > 

Participants Complete the “Paddle”

 

Marina

MARINA

ABOUT THE MARINA

You can rent a single/double kayak or canoe, paddle boat, stand-up paddle board, pontoon boat, sailboat or hybrid mountain bike at the Marina. You can contact Eagle Creek Outfitters Boat Rental (April-October) at 317-207-1724 or find more information on their website or Facebook page.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

BOAT RAMP

42nd Street Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park

 

COME SAIL AWAY AT EAGLE CREEK PARK

The 42nd Street Boat Ramp is the best place to get your boat in the water at Eagle Creek Park.

Enjoy over 1,300 acres of reservoir surrounded by more than 3,900 acres of woods, meadows and  ponds.

Nothing beats the serenity of being out on Eagle Creek Reservoir. Visit the main park office or one of the gatehouses to get everything you’ll need for getting on the water, or contact Eagle Creek Park.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH INDY PARKS

For Eagle Creek programs, please visit this Indy Parks page.

 

PERSONAL BOATS

10 HP LIMIT

Personal boats up to 10 horsepower are permitted on the reservoir.

26 FOOT LIMIT

There is a 26-foot length boat restriction.

TRAILERS

Boats with trailers must launch from the 42nd St. Boat Ramp (on Dandy Trail, South of the Eagle Creek 56th Street Gatehouse)

EARTH DISCOVERY CENTER RAMP PORTAGE

Small canoes and kayaks can launch from the old boat ramp at the back of the Earth Discovery Center parking lot (must be portaged down the ramp, no vehicles).

BOAT LAUNCH ADMISSION FEES:

SINGLE DAY PASS: $3 PLUS PARK ADMISSION
ANNUAL CAR TOP BOAT LAUNCH STICKER:
$20 PER VESSEL
ANNUAL CANOE / KAYAK PASS: $20 
ANNUAL BOAT RAMP PASS (FOR TRAILERS): $40

WATERSPORTS AT EAGLE CREEK PARK

Bark Park

Bark Park

The Bark Park, specifically for 4-legged friends!

EAGLE CREEK OUTFITTERS

If you like to be on the water, sailing lessons as well as canoes, kayaks, pontoon and row boats, paddle boats, and even paddle boards are available to rent down at Eagle Creek Outfitters.

WATERCRAFT RENTALS

Canoes  –  Kayaks  –  Pontoons  –  Row Boats  –  Paddle Boards

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Electric Bikes  –  Guided Tours  –  Sailing Lessons

For more information call 317.327.7130 or click below:

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

INDIANAPOLIS ROWING CENTER

The Indianapolis Rowing Center offers a variety of classes and programs for new and experienced adult (and collegiate) rowers, youth ages 13-18, as well as underprivileged youth and physically disabled individuals. 

BOATHOUSE

Open March through November

CLASSES

April through October

For more information call 317.327.7100 or click below:

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

EAGLE CREEK SAILING CLUB

Eagle Creek Sailing Club is located on the western shore of Eagle Creek Reservoir. Eagle Creek Sailing Club is 400 members strong, with people who love sailing, socializing, and being on the water. The club offers slips, lessons, summer camps, racing, and more. Please see the membership page if you are interested in learning more about membership. 

RACING

You can find racing information here

SAILING CAMP FOR KIDS

Three sessions in June, available to non-members. 

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

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THIS IS AN IMAGE CAPTION

 

SUBTITLE GOES HERE

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Beach

TITLE GOES HERE

THIS IS AN IMAGE CAPTION

 

SUBTITLE GOES HERE

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Sailing Club

TITLE GOES HERE

THIS IS AN IMAGE CAPTION

 

SUBTITLE GOES HERE

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Rowing Center

ROWING CENTER

ROWING FOR EVERYONE

The Indianapolis Rowing Center is located right in the park. It has rowing programs for visitors of all ages. These programs include group sessions where people can relax and row together, rowing lessons, and rowing races.

FOR MORE INFO:

indyrowing.org >

Indianapolis Rowing

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Peace Learning Center

TITLE GOES HERE

THIS IS AN IMAGE CAPTION

 

SUBTITLE GOES HERE

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Golf Club

GOLF CLUB

Eagle Creek Golf Club

EAGLE CREEK GOLF CLUB

Play 36 holes of Pete Dye championship golf at Eagle Creek Golf Club – one of the Midwest’s premier golf courses, which has won the Consumers Choice Award – Golf Level for Favorite Golf Course in Indianapolis.

A mere 10 minutes away from downtown Indianapolis, you can “swing” through a natural setting that incorporates numerous nature areas along with wetlands and rolling terrain.

There is a Pines course that appeals to golfers of all levels, and then a more scenic and challenging Sycamore course mixing hills, tree-lined fairways, and water holes.

The course has also been highly rated in Golf Digest in its “Places to Play” category for Indiana.

Foundation members get %15 off!

Eagle Creek Park Foundation is thrilled to partner with Eagle Creek Golf Club to offer our members a 15% discount on greens fees. If you golf more than a few times a year, the membership can pay for itself!

  Map Options      Full-Screen      Share Map     Navigate

Location

8802 W 56th St Indianapolis >

Contact

317-297-3366

Hours

Check Eagle Creek Golf Club’s website

Events

For all Golf Club events, visit the Eagle Creek Golf Club calendar.

 

Eagle Creek Golf Club logo featuring green and gold elements, representing a golf club brand with a distinctive design. In partnership with Eagle Creek Golf Club

For Eagle Creek Park Golf club info, please visit this Golf Club page.

Soccer Complex

TITLE GOES HERE

THIS IS AN IMAGE CAPTION

 

SUBTITLE GOES HERE

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Rick’s Boatyard

Rick’s Boatyard

A CAFE ON THE RESERVOIR

Rick’s Boatyard Cafe is located on the waterfront of Eagle Creek’s reservoir. It features fresh seafood, prime steaks, and craft cocktails.

It is a nice place to eat after a long day of boating. It is very convenient to access it after boating.

Groups may also host private events at the cafe.

https://ricksboatyard.com/

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.

Airport

TITLE GOES HERE

THIS IS AN IMAGE CAPTION

 

SUBTITLE GOES HERE

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

Little short strokes. It all happens automatically. We must be quiet, soft and gentle. Only eight colors that you need.

You should get a pass!

This is an area for a call to action for things related to the topic, like donations, etc. or purchasing a pass.

LOCATION:

7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46254

CONTACT:

317-327-7110

ECPF@eaglecreekpark.org

HOURS:

Open Dawn to Dusk

Monday-Sunday 7:00am-8:30pm EST

WEBSITE:

EagleCreekPark.Org

Additional content goes here that is specific to the topic.

Special rules, regulations, and so forth.

 

If you don’t think every day is a good day – try missing a few. You’ll see.

You can create beautiful things – but you have to see them in your mind first. A beautiful little sunset.

Let’s make some happy little clouds in our world. The man who does the best job is the one who is happy at his job. Just make a decision and let it go.

Maybe there’s a happy little Evergreen that lives here.

ADD RELATED CONTENT BY CATEGORY BELOW

Lilly Lake

Lilly Lake

Explore the beauty of Lilly Lake at Eagle Creek Park.

Marina

Marina

Dock your boat at the Marina at Eagle Creek Park.

Boat Ramp

Boat Ramp

Get in the water at the Boat Ramp at Eagle Creek Park.

Causeway

Causeway

About the 56th Street Causeway at Eagle Creek Park.