Support Us Button Widget

Places to go creek stomping around Indy

Take to the (shallow) water at these local parks that also feature added attractions for kids and adults alike.

INDYtoday: INDY_Cicero Creek creek stomping Noblesville_AUG24

Bonus: If you get a creek all to yourself, your creek stomping adventure can double as a meditation opportunity.

Photo by INDYtoday team

Running out of quick, free ways to beat the heat this week? Enter creek stomping: Taking to a small creek to wade around, discover treasures, and observe wildlife. It’s the perfect way for adventurous kids and rockhounding adults alike to pass some time while staying cool.

Here are some nearby creeks with added attractions that are perfect for a safe splash. Remember: Please protect your feet with suitable shoes, carry trash out with you, and don’t touch any wildlife you may find. Showing respect for the habitat will make it possible for you + others to enjoy these beautiful creeks for years to come.

Holliday Park | Check out all the tiny pools that form right off the banks of the White River + are often filled with minnows. When it gets too hot to be outside, you can retreat to the air-conditioned Habitat Hall to learn about local wildlife or let kids splash around with the White River water table.

Southeastway Park | Buck Creek runs right along the edge of this 188-acre nature park, which also features some of the best casual hiking in Indy. Keep an eye out for frogs and turtles — and come back in late September for a hayride.

Juan Solomon Park | This park is beloved by families for the shallow creek and padded playground surface. Pro tip: Dogs are allowed here, so your furry friend can get some relief from the heat too.

Flowing Well Park | Fancy a bottle of cold artesian well water? The well this park was named after was discovered in 1904 and has been quenching the thirsts of Carmel visitors ever since. After you fill your jug, head over to Cool Creek for some top-tier stomping.

Flat Fork Creek Park | After splashing around in Flat Fork Creek, use the treetop breeze to dry off in one of the park’s three treehouses. You can also stay waterside by casting a line at the fishing pond — visitors age 17 and under don’t need a license.

Do you have a favorite creek to stomp around in? Let us know.

More from INDYtoday
The Athenaeum celebrates Indianapolis’ German heritage with its biggest festival.
Prepare for fall weather in Indy with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
Forget breaking a mirror or walking under a ladder — what actions would bring a Hoosier misfortune?
Ever wondered what kind of hardwood floors that house down the street has? Now you can find out.
Indiana made its mark in the 2024 Paris Olympics, and Hoosier Paralympians have done the same.
There’s nothing like a cool autumn day picking produce + hitting the hay (literally).
It’s been a busy season for Clark, who was the No. 1 WNBA draft pick.
Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or looking for new tunes, we’ve got a list of musicians from Indy that will be music to your ears.
Downtown Indianapolis has artifacts from the 9/11 attacks to honor those whose lives were lost.
Make the most of good weather by taking your meals al fresco on one of Indy’s many beautiful patios.