A visit to the park is a terrific way for everyone in the family to get some fresh air and connect with nature. With dozens of options nearby, these treasures offer a variety of experiences and endless outdoor fun. Spend an afternoon — or even the whole day — with people you love, from picnicking and bird watching to a bike ride, you’ll find something to enjoy. Why not head to any one of these six awesome parks near Fishers, Indiana, right now?

Cheeney Creek Natural Area

Image via Flickr by donjd2 

If you’re on the lookout for a hidden gem, check out Cheeney Creek on Fishers Pointe Boulevard. Whether your active family loves an invigorating hike, angling for fish, or the chance to spot wildlife, Cheeney Park has something for you. The grassy corridor along the greenway is perfect for a picnic or amble down nearly two miles of trails, one asphalt, and one soft surface. The paths are shady, and there are benches along the way for resting.

The 3 acre pond is loaded with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish, so don’t forget your pole and a bucket of worms. Head to the end of the deck off of the Nickel Plate Trail and cast your line. Cheeney Park is open from dawn until dusk.

Cyntheanne Park

Image via Flickr by d-olwen-dee

Take a trip to the neighborhood Cyntheanne Park and play. This 53-acre fun center features everything parents love about a park, including walking trails, pickleball courts, five athletic fields, and several clean restrooms. Located on Cyntheanne Road in northeast Fishers, this park is always bustling with activity, from little leaguers to picnickers. One of the best things about this community park is the vibrant landscape playground structure. Its mission is to encourage unstructured movement and play for children of all ages.

Settle your infant in the stroller and cruise down the 1-mile paved trail, or let your toddler explore the natural grass path. Cyntheanne Park isn’t just for kids, either. Adults are invited to join the Community Garden Program. Residents can rent plots of land for the season and grow their own fruits and vegetables. It’s also the only green space in the area to offer cage pickleball challenge courts. Get to know the other parents at the park, and you may make some new, like-minded friends. The park is open from dawn to dusk and has a concession building for snacks.

Flat Fork Creek Park

Image via Flickr by oddharmonic

Engage in four-season play at Flat Fork Creek Park on East 101st Street. Take a 5-mile walk on the wide, paved path that encircles the prairie landscape, then follow the boardwalk through the marshy, wooded area for an adventure. Just a short walk from the boardwalk awaits the three treehouses.

Bring your mountain bikes and explore the winding dirt path that also ventures into the woods. Older kids can show off their skills on a variety of ramps and technical features designed for experienced cyclists. Visit Flat Fork Creek Park during the winter and discover the thrilling 60-foot tall sledding hill. There are even some shorter runs for the younger kids.

Heritage Park at White River

Image via Flickr by Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association

Embark on an educational family adventure at the charming Heritage Park at White River on Eller Road. Journey back in time with this 33-acre park’s restored Greek Revival-style home. This 1826 Ambassador House boasts an active social calendar and is a top-rated venue for weddings and special events, such as Wine Down Wednesday.

It’s companion, the Heritage Garden, is home to various plants that draw many species of birds and butterflies each year, making the park an ideal setting for a picnic lunch. Take a refreshing walk on the scenic nature trail or the half-mile paved loop that connects to the popular White River Greenway. During the winter months, Heritage Park offers residents one of the best sledding hills in Fishers.

Billericay Park

Image via Flickr by USAG-Humphreys

Relax and distress at Billericay Park on Promise Road. Open dawn to dusk every day, Billericay is a popular family destination covering 44 acres of diverse recreational opportunities. Enjoy a scenic natural getaway with a stroll through the woods, thanks to the 1.75 miles of nature and multi-use trails. Cool off at the free splash pad. It’s open each summer from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

Hear the crack of a bat on the youth baseball fields as you take the little ones to visit one of three playground areas, then grab a bite to eat at a full concession facility. The not for profit Mudsock Youth Athletics organization manages the variety of youth sports at Billericay Park. This Fishers’ park also hosts summer camp in the community building. It’s an awesome program that’s good for any age.

6. Brooks School Park

Image via Flickr by carolyntiry

The best thing about this 16.5-acre park is its ADA accessible playground. Kids of all ages and abilities can let loose and play at Brooks School. Investigate the interactive Born Learning Trail with your preschooler. It’s another unique feature of this amazing neighborhood play space. This United Way initiative focuses on early education and uses bold colors and designs to lead young children through a series of 10 interactive activities.

The older kids can get in on a pickup basketball game, while mom and dad take a jog along the quarter-mile loop or have a little family-friendly competition with a game of horseshoes. Located on Brooks School Road, this busy park has an open field for soccer or rugby, plus a bridge and dock overlooking Mud Creek. It’s the ideal setting for a family photo with the fall foliage in the background.

The park isn’t just for children anymore. Parents enjoy getting outdoors, too. With these awesome destinations close to home, there’s no reason not to get out and play. 

Where is your family’s favorite park? Let Creme de la Creme of Fishers, IN know so we can add it to our list.