The park land was originally established as Fort Benjamin Harrison in 1903 to serve as a training center for the U.S. Army.
The park was officially transferred to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources in 1996 after the military base closure.
It is the only Indiana state park located within the boundaries of a major metropolitan city.
The property contains several original brick structures from its time as an active military installation.
It features a dedicated memorial to the 20th-century history of the site.
The park's golf course is the only Pete Dye-designed course in the Indiana State Park system.
Fort Harrison State Park occupies 1,700 acres of former U.S. Army military base land in northeast Indianapolis. The park features the 18-hole Fort Golf Course, designed by Pete Dye, situated on the former military parade grounds. Fall Creek flows through the property, providing significant riparian habitat and fishing access. Over 10 miles of multi-use trails wind through hardwood forests and ravines. The park includes a dedicated equestrian center with miles of horse trails. Visitors can explore the Museum of 20th Century Warfare located within the grounds. The terrain includes significant elevation changes unusual for central Indiana. It serves as an urban oasis providing wildlife viewing opportunities, including deer and wild turkeys.
The elevated overlook bridge crossing Fall Creek, offering panoramic views of the water and surrounding canopy.
Download a digital map before arrival, as cellular reception can be intermittent in the lower ravines.
Check the park office for current trail conditions after significant rainfall, as paths can become muddy.
If visiting for the golf course, ensure you book tee times well in advance, especially on weekends.
Attempting to hike the entire trail system in a single visit, as the elevation changes are more strenuous than expected.
The park remains open year-round, though specific trail segments may close seasonally for maintenance or deer management programs.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive ravine ecosystems and ensure safety near steep drop-offs.
