Southeastway Park

Location and Overview

Found in the southeast corner of Marion County, Southeastway Park spans a generous 188 acres of natural landscape in Indianapolis, Indiana. The park officially opened on July 23, 1972, and has been maintained by the Indianapolis Parks and Recreation Department ever since. If you're planning a visit, you'll discover it's a breeze to reach from I-74 - just take the Acton Road exit in Franklin Township and you're practically there.

Natural Features

Southeastway features diverse natural settings. With 80 acres of forest, a serene pond and wetland area, sprawling open fields and meadows, several prairie patches, and the meandering Buck Creek, the park offers a variety of natural environments to explore. During the warmer months, Buck Creek becomes a hub of activity, with families splashing around during creek stomping adventures or hunting for interesting shells along its banks.

Trails and Recreation

If you're looking to stretch your legs, you'll appreciate the roughly 2.5 miles of paved walking and biking trails that loop around the park. These well-maintained paths take you through the park's varied landscapes. For those who prefer a more rustic experience, unpaved trails weave through the wooded areas alongside Buck Creek, bringing you closer to nature. Come winter, the park's sledding hill transforms into a favorite spot for thrill-seekers when blanketed with snow.

The park's open grassy spaces are well-suited for impromptu games of frisbee, soccer, or whatever outdoor activity strikes your fancy. And yes, your four-legged friends are welcome too - just remember that this dog-friendly park requires pets to stay on leash.

Programs and Events

During the year, Southeastway comes alive with a variety of environmental education programs and special events. Bug Fest, held every August, stands out as a particularly popular gathering. The park's seasonal activities offer something for everyone: watch maple syrup making from mid-February to mid-March, sign up for summer camps in June and July, or enjoy hayrides from late September through early November. The nature center regularly hosts educational programs about local wildlife for curious minds of all ages.

Facilities

Kids will delight in the two modern playgrounds - there's one specially designed for the little ones and another for older children, both kept in excellent condition with various play structures. Within the grounds, you'll discover numerous picnic areas with tables and about six shelter houses that you can reserve for gatherings.

Planning a cookout? Several grilling areas with charcoal grills are conveniently located near the shelters. When nature calls, you'll come across both permanent restroom facilities and portable toilets strategically placed within the park. For those looking to host a private event during the fall or winter months, the park's Activity Center is available for rent and comes equipped with practical amenities like a refrigerator and stove, plus a cozy fireplace for those chilly winter days.

Southeastway Park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 9PM.