Hendricks County Parks & Recreation

Homeschool Ecology Series: Meteorology Mayhem
2026-04-17 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Have you ever wondered what causes rain, tornadoes, hurricanes or snow? Our naturalists are going to present all things weather and show you how to observe weather metrics at home, such as rain, temperature, and wind. We’ll also go on a hike to record our weather observations at the park.
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 7-17 WITH PARENT OR GUARDIAN
FEE: $10/CHILD (PARENT/GUARDIAN IS FREE)
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY APRIL 10 AT:
https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=978
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 90 MINUTES

Board Game Blitz
2026-04-17 13:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Want to bring out your inner gamer? Join us at McCloud for an afternoon of board games and cards! Whether you’re a master of games or just like to have fun, you’re sure to find something that fits your interests. Have a game you love to play? Bring it and show off your skills! Snacks provided.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS (ONGOING)

Senior Center: Getting Outdoors
2026-04-22 12:30 - 13:30 | Hendricks County Senior Services, 1201 Sycamore Lane, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Celebrate Earth Day by discovering the joy of connecting with nature and exploring new outdoor hobbies! This presentation will highlight simple, accessible ways to enjoy the outdoors-whether it’s gardening, birdwatching, nature walks, or outdoor art. We will learn how these activities boost well-being, build community, and inspire appreciation for our planet.
RECOMMENDED FOR SENIORS
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR

Naturalist's Choice
2026-04-23 13:00 - 14:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us for the Naturalist’s Choice program, where every session is a surprise adventure led by our naturalist team! Depending on the weather, season, and local wildlife activity, you’ll explore a unique and engaging topic tailored to the day’s conditions. Be ready for anything and wear closed-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting wet or dirty for your safety and comfort. The naturalists will decide the topic of the week and announce it in the nature center and on our social media. Don’t miss out on this ever-changing exploration of the natural world!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR

Crafty Creations
2026-04-29 13:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Unleash your creativity with our Crafty Creations! In each session, we’ll explore a different craft project, so there’s always something new and exciting to make. Every class offers a unique opportunity to learn new techniques and create something you’ll love, from painting to paper crafts and more. Come join us for a fun and inspiring crafting experience.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS (ONGOING)

Nature Hike
2026-04-30 13:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Come on out for a guided nature hike through the beautiful trails of McCloud Nature Park! This moderate hike is perfect for nature lovers of all ages and experience levels. Trail terrain varies between gravel, grass, and paved. Bring water, dress for the weather, and enjoy this peaceful adventure in the great outdoors!
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 8 THROUGH ADULT
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HRS

Kids' Fishing Derby
2026-05-02 09:30 - 12:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Join us for a fun-filled day of fishing at our annual Kids’ Fishing Derby at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park! This year we will be holding two fishing derbies: one in May and one in June. Each event will kick off with check-in from 9:30 am to 10:00 am, followed by fishing from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. After the fishing ends, we’ll tally up the results and present awards shortly after. Our awards will feature beautiful wooden fish plaques crafted by our talented maintenance team. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, meet fellow fishing enthusiasts, and compete for some unique prizes. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, we welcome everyone to participate. The derby is for anglers ages 5 up to 12. Come join us for a full day of fishing fun!

Sunshine Sips Lemonade will be joining us to serve up delicious lemonades for the event!

FOR AGES 5-12
FREE TO ATTENDNO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIREDAPPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2.5 HOURS

Vandalia Trail Bike Rides
2026-05-05 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-05-19 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-06-02 18:30 - 20:30 | Vandalia Trail – Amo Trailhead, 5042 South Street, Amo, IN, 46103, United States
Bicyclists, join Friends of the Vandalia Trail for weekly rides along the Vandalia Trail alternating between Amo and Plainfield. This event is for the rides starting from Amo.

1st, 3rd, & 5th Tuesdays each month (trailhead at Railroad St. & Pearl St.). Enjoy the countryside and small towns riding Hendricks County Parks and Recreation’s paved Vandalia Trail to Coatesville and the Putnam County line (8 miles round trip, 16 miles for two round trips) and occasionally part of the Putnam Parks & Pathways’ packed stone Vandalia Trail towards Fillmore, depending on the group.

Please note that riders participate at their own risk and minors must be accompanied by an adult responsible for them.
If you have any questions, please contact Greg Midgley (greg@nrht.org).
http://www.nrht.org/vandalia/page.php?p=events#weekly_bike

Yoga in the Park - All Ages
2026-05-08 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-22 19:00 - 20:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Join Balance & Breath Yoga & Wellness Center this summer for FREE Yoga in the Park programs!
Grab a beach towel or yoga mat, some water, and join us at the Bluegill Shelter at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park! Our beginner-friendly series of classes are great for meeting those in the community and enjoying gentle movement outdoors in a beautiful park!

Three different programs available:

Family Yoga (families of all ages), Saturdays at 9 a.m., (1-hour session)
Kids Yoga (ages 5-10), Tuesdays at 10 a.m., (1-hour session)
Yoga in the Park (all ages), Fridays at 7 p.m., (1-hour session)

FREE to attend
No Advance Registration Required

Black Sheep RC Modelers: Summer Float & Fly
2026-05-09 09:00 - 14:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Come on out to the pond at W.S. Gibbs Memorial to watch as the Blacksheep squadron shows off their nifty RC boats and planes!

The event is free to attend. Membership required with AMA to participate in flying or floating of model vehicles.

Kids' Yoga in the Park
2026-05-12 10:00 - 11:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Join Balance & Breath Yoga & Wellness Center this summer for FREE Yoga in the Park programs!
Grab a beach towel or yoga mat, some water, and join us at the Bluegill Shelter at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park! Our beginner-friendly series of classes are great for meeting those in the community and enjoying gentle movement outdoors in a beautiful park!

Three different programs available:

Family Yoga (families of all ages), Saturdays at 9 a.m., (1-hour session)
Kids Yoga (ages 5-10), Tuesdays at 10 a.m., (1-hour session)
Yoga in the Park (all ages), Fridays at 7 p.m., (1-hour session)

For kids ages 5-10
FREE to attend
No Advance Registration Required

Yap with a Naturalist!
2026-05-12 13:00 - 14:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Tired of Googling every question you might have while outdoors or sitting and wondering “What’s this bird?” Come out to McCloud Nature Park for our naturalist’s yap hour, where we will try our best to answer any burning questions you may have about the natural world or advice on how to get a good mix of birds coming to your feeders. You bring the questions; we’ll provide the answers and refreshments.

APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTENDNO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIREDAPPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR (ONGOING)

Critter Feeding!
2026-05-14 14:00 - 15:00, 2026-05-21 14:00 - 15:00, 2026-05-28 14:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-04 14:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Meet all of our ambassador animals for a late lunch while we talk about what and how they eat!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGESFEE: $2/PERSONADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIREDAPPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR
Registration Links

May 14: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1017
May 21: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1018
May 28: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1019
June 4: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1020
June 11: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1021
June 18: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1022
June 25: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1023
July 2: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1024
July 9: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1025
July 16: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1026
July 23: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1027
July 30: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1029
Aug. 6: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1030
Aug. 13: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1031
Aug. 20: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1032
Aug. 27: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1033

Family Yoga in the Park
2026-05-16 09:00 - 10:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States

The Power of Pollinators!
2026-05-16 13:00 - 14:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Did you know bats are one of the most important pollinators? That’s right! Join our naturalists as we discuss the importance of bats, the troubles they’re facing currently and how you can do your part. Plus, we’ll have a treat that was made possible by our pollinator friends. See you there!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGESFEE: $3/PERSONADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 13 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1000APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR

TADPOLE TIME: Salamander Safari!
2026-05-19 10:00 - 11:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Hey there, fellow nature lovers! If you’re excited about amphibians and reptiles, let’s team up and explore the wonders of W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park together. Don’t forget to wear clothes that can get wet or muddy — it’s all part of the adventure! Can’t wait to see what we discover!
FOR AGES 2-7 WITH A PARENT OR GUARDIAN
FEE: $5/CHILD
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 15 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1009
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR

NATURE DISCOVERY: Naturalist Crossing: McCloud Horizons
2026-05-20 10:00 - 12:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Welcome! The naturalists invite you to explore a new “island”: McCloud Nature Park! There are many activities to complete at McCloud including fishing, bug collecting, fossil finding and more! We’ll explore each activity, just like in the classic game Animal Crossing. Don’t worry, you can leave your video games at home.
FOR AGES 7-12 WITH A PARENT OR GUARDIAN
FEE: $5/PARTICIPANT
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 15 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=988
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS

ROOTED IN NATURE CLUB: Nature Scavenger Hunt
2026-05-21 16:00 - 17:30 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Welcome to our very first Rooted in Nature program! Do you have what it takes to complete our Nature Scavenger Hunt? As you go on a hike through the park, your team and a naturalist will need to find each of the items on the list and snap a picture. Whichever team returns to the shelter first with all the categories wins! Snacks provided.
FOR AGES 13-18
FEE: $10/TEEN
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 18 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1013
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 90 MINUTES

Campfire Cooking
2026-05-23 18:30 - 20:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Come out to the park for some campfire fun! Our naturalists are offering this as a fun family program, open to all ages. Each session will focus on a different snack using our campfire to cook it, such as roasting and Dutch oven cooking. See our calendar and our website for more details. Sign up early, as spots are limited and will fill up fast! Meet at the Ray & Mary Benson Nature Center. (After this program, stick around for the Astronomy Program with the Indiana Astronomical Society.)

Note, in the case of rain or severe weather, this program will be canceled.

APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGESFEE: $3/PERSONADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIREDAPPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 90 MINUTES
Registration Links

May 23: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=996
June 20: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=998
July 11: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=997
Aug. 8: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=999

Astronomy
2026-05-23 21:00 - 23:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Looking for a fun and educational family activity this summer that’s FREE?
Take stargazing to new heights by escaping the light pollution of the city and heading to McCloud Nature Park, where thousands of stars twinkle like jewels in the dark night sky!
The Indiana Astronomical Society partners with Park Naturalists to hold sky seminars and viewings at McCloud on the Saturday nights listed below. These programs, led by expert sky watchers, are geared for the novice astronomer.
Telescopes large and small will be set up for your use. Each evening will begin with a brief informational session (“sky seminar”) in the Nature Center where you will learn which planets and constellations will be visible that night. These seminars last about 30 minutes and are best suited for ages 8 and older. Outdoor sky-viewing will begin following the seminars.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Sky seminars will take place rain or shine, but sky viewings are dependent upon clear skies. If poor weather is forecast or any severe weather advisories are issued, the sky-viewing portion of the program will be canceled.
All Astronomy programs are held on Saturdays at McCloud Nature Park. They are FREE to attend, appropriate for all ages, and no advance registration is required. Each program is approximately 2 hours in duration.
Please be advised that the park closes at 11 p.m. on Astronomy nights.
2026 Program Schedule

Saturday, May 23 at 9 p.m.
Saturday, June 20 at 9 p.m.
Saturday, July 11 at 9 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 8 at 9 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 19 at 8 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m.

(Cover photo by Jonathan Grober)

Plant ID Hike
2026-05-26 13:30 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Ever wondered, “What is that plant, flower or tree?” Our Plant ID Hike is just the activity for you! Our naturalists will lead you on a guided hike and point out plants of interest on the way. Though we will not cover every plant we see, we will try to discuss different plants each hike! We will also share historical uses of the plants, if any. Feel free to bring any supplies on your hike to make your experience better. We hope to see you there!
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 8 AND UPFEE $3/PERSONADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 25 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1001APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1.5 HOURS

SENIOR CENTER: Backyard Birding
2026-05-27 12:30 - 13:30 | Hendricks County Senior Services, 1201 Sycamore Lane, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Join our naturalists at the Senior Center in Danville on the 4th Wednesday of every month from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. for a FREE nature-themed program! These programs take place during lunch at the Senior Center, and donations are accepted for lunch. The Senior Center partners with the Central Indiana Council on Aging (CICOA) to provide the meals. CICOA’s paperwork must be completed upon your first visit.

Lunch is prepared by Hendricks Regional Health Hospital. To make a lunch reservation, please call (317) 910-5356 by 11 a.m. on the day before the program.

MAY 27: BACKYARD BIRDINGEver wondered what birds are in your backyard? This program will help you identify the animals in your backyard and how to keep them on your feeders.

Nature Journaling at McCloud
2026-05-29 14:00 - 15:30 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Tune in with your senses as we explore our parks, bringing our nature journals along for the adventure! Our naturalists will take you on a guided walk where our goal is to absorb all nature has to offer and learn how to make observations and record them in your own way. Small, simple journals will be offered, but you may bring your own journal if you’d like!
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 7 AND UPFEE: $3/PERSONADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 27 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=1005APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1.5 HOURS

Night Hike at Gibbs
2026-05-29 20:30 - 22:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Join us for a night at one of our parks! You’ll get the rare chance to experience our trails in the evening with a naturalist to guide you. Each night hike, we will be looking for what the woods have to offer: bats, owls, fireflies, and more! This program will last about 1.5 hours and will trek easy to moderate trails. Our parks have a variety of paved, gravel, and grassy trails, so come prepared! Small flashlights will be available for use, but light usage will be minimized in order to get the best experience and to avoid disrupting wildlife. In the event of rain or severe weather, the event will be canceled.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGESFEE: $5/PERSONADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 27 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=992APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1.5 HOURS
