Cheeney Creek Natural Area

Natural Habitat

Positioned in Fishers, Indiana, Cheeney Creek Natural Area is a 25-acre slice of wilderness that feels worlds apart from city life. This lesser-known park offers a peaceful retreat where nature still rules the roost, despite being right in the heart of suburban Fishers.

The park preserves its natural character beautifully, with towering hardwood trees creating a lush canopy overhead and plenty of greenery to soothe your city-weary eyes. If you're lucky (and maybe a little patient), you might spot some of the local residents - great horned owls silently watching from above, woodpeckers tap-tap-tapping on tree trunks, curious deer peeking through the underbrush, or squirrels going about their busy squirrel business. The creek itself is home to various aquatic creatures that add to this mini-ecosystem's rich biodiversity.

Trails and Outdoor Adventures

Nearly 2 miles of nature and multi-use trails wind through the park, giving you options for your outdoor adventure. There's a paved pathway that's a lifesaver during Indiana's wetter months (no muddy shoes, thank you very much!), plus a soft-surface woodland trail that hugs Cheeney Creek's banks for a more immersive forest experience when conditions are dry.

If you're in the mood for a contemplative hike, a brisk morning walk, a heart-pumping run, or some quality birdwatching, these scenic paths deliver. You'll pass by some of the largest trees in Fishers - gentle giants that have been standing watch long before our subdivisions arrived. The trails welcome four-legged friends too, and they're wide enough that cyclists and pedestrians can share the space without awkward sidestep dances.

Need a longer adventure? The trails connect to the Nickel Plate Trail, opening up miles more to explore. And don't worry about the summer heat - the abundant shade makes even July outings surprisingly comfortable.

Fishing Spot

The park's 3-acre fishing pond is a local favorite, stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, rock bass, and channel catfish. You'll often see families arriving by bike, fishing gear in tow, ready for an afternoon of casting lines and making memories. Just remember to bring your state of Indiana fishing license - the fish police don't take days off!

Wildlife Encounters

Despite sitting in an urban area, this little nature sanctuary hosts a surprising array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for praying mantis standing perfectly still in the tall grass, the fascinating marbled orb-weaver spiders with their intricate webs, and countless birds flitting through the trees. Even on quieter days when the animals are playing hard-to-get, you can close your eyes and enjoy the natural soundtrack - the gentle background music of birdsong gradually replaces the distant hum of traffic as you venture deeper into the park.

If you can swing a visit in autumn, you're in for a special treat. The fall colors transform the already beautiful trails into corridors of red, orange, and gold - nature's own art exhibition that changes daily.

Amenities

This is a back-to-basics kind of park, so you won't find restrooms or water fountains along the way. There is, however, a spacious parking lot and several picnic tables near the entrance that make perfect spots for a pre-hike snack or post-walk lunch. The park follows a carry-in, carry-out approach to trash, which helps keep wildlife safe and the views pristine.

You can visit from 7AM to 8PM daily, but you'll want to time your adventures during daylight hours since the trails aren't lit after sunset. What makes Cheeney Creek special isn't fancy facilities or elaborate playgrounds - it's the simple pleasure of accessible nature, thoughtfully preserved in the midst of suburban growth, waiting for your next visit.