The land was originally a portion of the Collett family farm before being gifted to the city specifically to be maintained as a public park.
The surrounding residential neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, containing architectural styles like Queen Anne and Colonial Revival.
The park was once home to an iconic iron fountain that served as a centerpiece for the grounds in the late 19th century.
Large-scale mature trees in the park were selected for their variety, creating a diverse canopy that provides significant shade year-round.
Collett Park is the oldest public park in Terre Haute, Indiana, established in 1883 following a donation of land by Josephus Collett. The park encompasses 23 acres of historic landscape design, characterized by large, mature shade trees and meandering walking paths. It is situated within the Collett Park Neighborhood, a designated historic district known for its collection of 19th and early 20th-century residential architecture. The grounds feature a pond, which serves as a central aesthetic element, and several recreational amenities including basketball courts and a playground. The park serves as a community hub for local events and seasonal gatherings. Its layout reflects late-Victorian era urban planning sensibilities, prioritizing green space within an expanding city. The site is maintained by the Terre Haute Parks and Recreation Department. The geography is relatively flat, making it accessible for walkers and joggers.
The north end of the pond looking back toward the historic residential homes.
Walk the perimeter of the park to view the historic homes bordering the property.
Bring a picnic, as the park offers numerous benches and grassy areas shaded by mature trees.
Visit during the early autumn to view the change of foliage, which is particularly vibrant due to the park's age-old tree canopy.
Do not attempt to feed the waterfowl in the pond, as it disrupts the local ecosystem and attracts pests.
Leash laws apply to all pets, and visitors are expected to practice 'pack-in, pack-out' waste management.
