The park's name, Koteewi, is derived from the Miami-Illinois word for 'prairie'.
The area is home to the remains of a significant Native American village dating back to the Late Woodland period.
The Taylor Center of Natural History houses one of the largest collections of regional prehistoric artifacts in Central Indiana.
The park contains a unique 'Koteewi Trace' trail system specifically designed for horseback riding.
It is a designated Indiana State Historic Site due to the high density of archaeological resources discovered on the land.
Strawtown Koteewi Park is a 900-acre Hamilton County park situated along the White River in Indiana, functioning as a center for archaeological education and outdoor recreation. The property contains the Taylor Center of Natural History, which interprets the region’s 10,000-year human history through preserved artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can access a network of equestrian, hiking, and mountain biking trails that traverse diverse habitats including wetlands and woodlands. The park features an established archery range and designated fishing access points along the riverbanks. It serves as an active research site where ongoing archaeological excavations occur. The grounds are managed to protect significant indigenous habitation sites identified through local surveys.
The elevated boardwalks overlooking the wetlands during the golden hour.
Download the park map before arrival as cellular reception can be intermittent in the wooded sections.
Bring bug spray if visiting during the warmer months, as the White River proximity attracts significant insect populations.
Check the official park calendar for scheduled archaeological digs to see researchers in action.
Wandering off-trail into restricted research zones marked by signage.
The Taylor Center of Natural History has reduced hours on weekdays during the winter season.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive archaeological sites and refrain from disturbing any earthworks or potential artifact locations.
