Fort Harrison State Park In Indiana

Outdoor enthusiasts in Indiana will enjoy the beauty of Fort Harrison State Park. This 1,700 acre park features a number of park facilities and activities that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. This park was established in 1996 and has attracted a number of visitors of all age groups who come to enjoy the many different activities available.

Fort Harrison offers daytime visiting though there are some facilities available for those seeking overnight accommodations. Visitors who wish to stay overnight will need to stay at The Fort Golf Resort, an officer’s club turned inn. Other rooms may be available through the Harrison House Suites upon request.

A saddle barn within the park provides trail rides on horseback and hay rides for visitors. Horse access is available from March 27 to October 31 and depends upon the daily weather. Services offered are trail rides that range from 1.5 to 2.5 mile trail rides on horseback. Horse riding lessons are also available for those wishing to learn to ride horses. Parent assisted pony rides are another service offered at this park. For more information on trail rides offered by Fort Harrison, visit their website at http://www.hoosiertrailrides.com/.

Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy fishing access to Fall Creek. This creek runs for 3.5 miles within the park and has a number of tributaries that spread within the park’s confines. This allows for those fishing to find a number of ideal locations to fish. The fishing areas are often visited by beavers, toads, frogs, turtles and other small wildlife. Ice fishing is also available during winter months when there is enough ice in Fall Creek to allow it. Fishing licenses are available at the park for those who need to obtain one prior to fishing. Also within the park is a pond designated for herons only, and fishing is prohibited.

Golfing is another of the attractions offered at Fort Harrison State Park. An eighteen hole golf course with a par of 72 is available for those seeking a game of golf in a beautiful park setting. This aspect of the park is very popular with those in the area and attracts a number of golfers not only from the Indianapolis area but across the state.

Trails for both bicycling and skating are available for visitors to Fort Harrison State Park. There are paved trails that are suitable for roller or in-line skating as well as running or biking. These multi-use paved trails can provide fitness while taking in the stunning scenery. Beautiful butterflies and flowers are frequently seen alongside trails within Fort Harrison State Park. Hiking trails are available for those seeking more of a challenge while visiting the park.

Picnic facilities are also available at Fort Harrison State Park. Shelter areas, including those equipped with fireplaces, are available for those wishing to enjoy a campfire while in the park. These fireplaces in the shelters can also be used in colder weather to stay warm while picnicking. Some of the recreational buildings available may also include restroom facilities and kitchenettes. These recreational buildings are ideal for school field trips or other group settings where a kitchen may be necessary to prepare food for picnics.

A nature center on the park premises can also provide additional information for visitors to Fort Harrison State Park. This center may be visited by those who wish to obtain a tour or learn more about the park and its history. A team of outdoor educators work with visitors to provide additional fun for their park experiences.

During winter months, sledding is also available at this state park. This is dependent on snowfall in the area and the weather conditions on the given day. Cross country skiing is also available. These winter activities allow visitors to enjoy the park year round instead of only during warmer months. Sledding and skiing can be fun family activities during the winter.

Those wishing to visit the park and need directions are urged to call (317) 591-0904 as using the park’s mailing address will result in incorrect directions. For other directions and information, visit the official website for Fort Harrison State Park at http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2982.htm.