Hendricks County Parks & Recreation

Homeschool Ecology: Winter Tree Workshop
2025-02-28 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Curious about identifying trees in winter? Join our workshop to learn the secrets of buds, bark, and other clues that help identify leafless trees. Embrace the challenge and start your journey in becoming a winter tree ID expert!
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 6-11 WITH PARENT OR GUARDIAN. SIBLINGS ARE WELCOME TO PARTICIPATE, TOO.
FEE: $10/CHILD (PARENT/GUARDIAN IS FREE).
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY FEB. 21 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=911
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS.

Maple Syrup Days
2025-03-01 10:00 - 15:00, 2025-03-08 10:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
It’s syrup season! McCloud Nature Park is full of sugar maple trees which produce sap with a high sugar content. Once the daytime temperatures start rising, the sap starts flowing, and is ready to begin collecting it. Sugar maples can be tapped by boring holes into their trunks. Buckets catch the dripping sap and are placed in an evaporator where it is made into maple syrup.

Come on out to McCloud Nature Park in early March and join us in discovering the rich deliciousness of maple sugaring at our 15th Annual McCloud Maple Syrup Days! Bring the whole family because Maple Syrup Days are FREE to attend!

This event is held entirely outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather. See you there!

TADPOLE TIME: Amphib-a-what?
2025-03-19 10:00 - 11:30 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Big words for small critters! Come learn about amphibians, like frogs, that are starting to hop about as they get ready for springtime! We’ll also learn about tadpoles and what those silly amphibians have been doing all winter.

Recommended for ages 2-5 years old with parent/guardian (older siblings ages 6-7 are welcome to register also if they want to participate).

Only $3 per child! Advance registration is required by March 12 at: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=918

For any questions or assistance with registration, please email mccloudnp@hcparks.net or call (765) 676-5437.

TADPOLE TIME: Amphib-a-what?
2025-03-20 10:00 - 11:30 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Big words for small critters! Come learn about amphibians, like frogs, that are starting to hop about as they get ready for springtime! We’ll also learn about tadpoles and what those silly amphibians have been doing all winter.

Recommended for ages 2-5 years old with parent/guardian (older siblings ages 6-7 are welcome to register also if they want to participate).

Only $3 per child! Advance registration is required by March 12 at: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=919

For any questions or assistance with registration, please email mccloudnp@hcparks.net or call (765) 676-5437.

SENIOR CENTER: Fantastic Frogs
2025-03-26 12:30 - 13:30 | Hendricks County Senior Services, 1201 Sycamore Lane, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Jeremiah was a Bullfrog! Singing in my back yard! Wait. That’s not right. The frogs are making their beautiful music again. Let’s talk about what you hear and what you can do to keep a good frog population at your home!

Salamander Safari Spring Break Camp
2025-03-27 10:00 - 14:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us for Salamander Safari during the peak of amphibian spawning season! Campers will embark on a thrilling adventure searching for salamanders and other amphibians and observing their fascinating behaviors. We’ll learn about their life cycles and the importance of preserving their ecosystems. It’s a hands-on, muddy, and unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. Dress for the weather!
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 6-15
FEE: $20/PERSON
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MARCH 13 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=903
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 4 HOURS

Potion Bottles Workshop
2025-03-29 10:00 - 12:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
What fairy would be worth her salt without her elixirs? Join us for a fun craft to make a set of apothecary bottles. These shimmering, colorful elixirs will look fabulous on your shelf or maybe would be a great gift for the magic lovers in your life! We will have everything you need to make four (4) potion bottles with decoration.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FEE: $20/PERSON
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MARCH 15 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=908
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS

Fancy Fairy Days
2025-03-29 10:00 - 16:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Fun Spring Fairies are all over McCloud Nature Park this year! Come out and join us as we celebrate these happy little sprites! Make a Fairy House, brew up a collection of elixirs and have fun with many fanciful fairy-themed events!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 6 HOURS (ONGOING)

Salamander Safari Spring Break Camp
2025-04-03 10:00 - 14:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us for Salamander Safari during the peak of amphibian spawning season! Campers will embark on a thrilling adventure searching for salamanders and other amphibians and observing their fascinating behaviors. We’ll learn about their life cycles and the importance of preserving their ecosystems. It’s a hands-on, muddy, and unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. Dress for the weather!
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 6-15
FEE: $20/PERSON
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MARCH 13 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=904
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 4 HOURS

Mystery by Moonlight: A Glo Egg Scavenger Hunt
2025-04-12 20:00 - 22:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Bunny was jealous of his Halloween pals in the Town of Haunted Hallows. Why do all their things glow in the dark?! So Bunny devised his very own glowing goodies at and spread them throughout W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park! Will you be able to follow Bunny’s trail? He’s hidden glowing eggs along Walnut Walkway and around the ponds. Each egg has a clue that will lead you to either a trick or a treat! We will also have some cool glow in the dark crafts and fun! (NOTE: This egg hunt is a night hike, so it is geared toward tweens, teens and adults with questions that may be harder for some younger folks to answer. However, ALL ages are welcome.)
Hiking terrain info: moderate level of difficulty, mostly flat gravel and paved trails at night, up to 0.5 mile.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FEE: $10/PERSON
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY APRIL 9 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=909
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS

TADPOLE TIME: Wacky Worms
2025-04-16 10:00 - 11:30 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
What do you think about our wiggly worms that live in the ground? Did you know these little guys make a big difference in our ecosystem? Come explore the wonders of worms and dig up the truth about these soil-dwelling invertebrates. Come dressed to be warm and to get messy in the mud.

Recommended for ages 2-5 years old with parent/guardian (older siblings ages 6-7 are welcome to register also if they want to participate).

Only $3 per child! Advance registration is required by April 9 at: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=920

For any questions or assistance with registration, please email mccloudnp@hcparks.net or call (765) 676-5437.

TADPOLE TIME: Wacky Worms
2025-04-17 10:00 - 11:30 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
What do you think about our wiggly worms that live in the ground? Did you know these little guys make a big difference in our ecosystem? Come explore the wonders of worms and dig up the truth about these soil-dwelling invertebrates. Come dressed to be warm and to get messy in the mud.

Recommended for ages 2-5 years old with parent/guardian (older siblings ages 6-7 are welcome to register also if they want to participate).

Only $3 per child! Advance registration is required by April 9 at: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=921

For any questions or assistance with registration, please email mccloudnp@hcparks.net or call (765) 676-5437.

Coatesville Community Egg Hunt
2025-04-19 13:00 - 14:00 | Vandalia Trail – Coatesville Trailhead, 7963 Main Street, Coatesville, IN, 46121, United States
Join the Park Naturalists at the Coatesville trailhead of the Vandalia Trail as we host our 2nd Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt! There will be eggs hidden for three age groups, and you could win one of six (6) Easter baskets! Hope to see you there!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED

SENIOR CENTER: Reruns, Reruns, Reruns
2025-04-23 12:30 - 13:30 | Hendricks County Senior Services, 1201 Sycamore Lane, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Recycling isn’t a new concept, but it isn’t a well understood one either. Let us help you learn what can and can’t be recycled. We will look at what we all use every day and that we may not even know is a recycled product. We will also look at the many ways you can recycle in your daily life!

Homeschool Ecology: Wondrous Wildflowers
2025-04-25 10:00 - 14:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Indiana has one of the most beautiful displays of wildflowers! Although it’s pretty cold, we should see some signs of life starting to pop through! Either way, we will learn how to identify wildflowers! *Program includes approximately ½ mile walk on natural surfaces. *
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 6-11 WITH PARENT OR GUARDIAN. SIBLINGS ARE WELCOME TO PARTICIPATE, TOO.
FEE: $10/CHILD (PARENT/GUARDIAN IS FREE).
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY APRIL 11 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=912
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS.

W.S. Gibbs Earth K Run/Walk 5K/10K
2025-04-26 08:30 - 10:30 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Celebrate Earth Day with Hendricks County Parks & Recreation running/walking the beautiful W.S. Gibbs Park trails. Join us for a competitive race or a fun run/walk and start the spring off on the right foot. After the professionally timed race, stick around for fun in the park for the whole family!

5K: $20/person10K: $30/person

Register at: https://runsignup.com/Race/IN/Danville/McCloudMapleSapRun

Farmer's Park-Et
2025-05-03 09:00 - 14:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Come out to W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park this summer for our Farmer’s Park-Et event, where you will find local artisans, fresh seasonal produce, and homemade goods available for purchase from local vendors! Last year’s event was such a big hit that we’re doing it THREE times this year!

APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGESFREE TO ATTENDNO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIREDAPPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 5 HOURS (ONGOING)

Vendor space is $20 for a 10’x10′ spot. If you would like to arrange booth space at this event, contact us at mccloudnp@hcparks.net or (765) 676-5437.

Astronomy
2025-05-03 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.
2025 Program Schedule

Saturday, May 3 at 9 p.m.
Saturday, June 28 at 9 p.m.
Saturday, July 26 at 9 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 9 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 27 at 8 p.m.

Creature Feature
2025-05-08 13:00 - 14:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Come join us for an engaging Creature Feature program, where we spotlight one of our amazing animal ambassadors! Discover the unique characteristics and adaptations that make this creature a perfect fit for our park’s diverse ecosystem. Through interactive discussions and close-up encounters, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the vital roles these animals play in nature and how they thrive in their environment.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR

Mother's Day Card Crafting
2025-05-09 13:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a heartfelt and creative touch at McCloud Nature Park! Join us for a special card-making workshop where you can design and craft unique, personalized cards to show your love and appreciation. All ages are welcome, and we’ll provide all the materials you need to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind cards for the special moms in your life. Come enjoy a relaxing and fun afternoon of creativity in the great outdoors!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS (ONGOING)

Release of Honey the Black Rat Snake
2025-05-10 12:00 - 13:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
It’s a special day at McCloud Nature Park as our naturalists release the rehabilitated Honey the Black Rat Snake back into the wild! Honey survived quite an ordeal, but thanks to a thoughtful homeowner who brought her to us, our naturalists were able to nurse her back to health over time. Black rat snakes are completely harmless, so this is a great opportunity for kids and adults alike to see one up close, hear Honey’s story, enjoy a hike, and be there as we send her on her way to freely be a snake and do snake things out at the park.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR

Crafty Creations
2025-05-14 13:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Unleash your creativity with our Crafty Creations program! 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

Skull Sleuths
2025-05-15 13:00 - 14:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Embark on an interactive journey where we explore the unique characteristics of various animal skulls. Test your detective skills by guessing which animals these skulls belong to based on the clues we provide. Learn fascinating facts about their anatomy, habits, and habitats in this educational adventure.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR

Family Campout
2025-05-16 15:00 - 2025-05-17 11:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
THIS IS AN OVERNIGHT FAMILY CAMPOUT.

Has your family ever been camping? McCloud Nature Park is a great place to try it out! This camping event is held only twice a year and provides an excellent opportunity to experience camping close to home. We’ll supply firewood and s’mores, and we’ll also offer night hikes, a naturalist campfire, family crafts, and breakfast the following morning. You can bring up to 6 family members or friends for a fun night at the park!

Check in on Friday between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.Check out on Sunday by 11 a.m.
Quiet Hours: 11 p.m.

Appropriate for all ages.

For any questions or assistance with registration, please call the McCloud Nature Center at (765) 676-5437.

FEE: $30/tent site (up to 6 people per site)
Advance registration required by May 9 at: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=924

Spring Coffee & Canvas
2025-05-17 10:00 - 12:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us for our Spring Coffee & Canvas program, where you’ll have the opportunity to paint a beautiful floral and butterfly design while sipping on coffee and enjoying a pastry!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FEE: $35 (includes all materials needed for the painting, class, a coffee or cocoa, and a pastry.)
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 9 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=935
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS

TADPOLE TIME: Fantastic Fun (McCloud)
2025-05-21 10:00 - 12:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Spend the day where all we do is play! The naturalists have some fun outdoor games planned, and we will also explore the nature play area. Don’t miss out on this fantastically fun day! Please dress in play clothes that you don’t mind getting messy.

Recommended for ages 2-5 years old with parent/guardian (older siblings ages 6-7 are welcome to register also if they want to participate).
Only $3 per child! Advance registration is required by May 14 at: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=928

SENIOR CENTER: Fossil Follies
2025-05-21 12:30 - 13:30 | Hendricks County Senior Services, 1201 Sycamore Lane, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Have you ever picked up a fossil in a creek bed and wondered, “What in the world is this thing?” We’ll discuss some of the coolest fossils found across the country and which ones we have in our own backyard. No digging or degree in paleontology required.
RECOMMENDED FOR SENIORS
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
(Photo by Visit Indiana)

TADPOLE TIME: Fantastic Fun (Gibbs)
2025-05-22 10:00 - 12:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Spend the day where all we do is play! The naturalists have some fun outdoor games planned, and we will also explore the nature play area. Don’t miss out on this fantastically fun day! Please dress in play clothes that you don’t mind getting messy.

Recommended for ages 2-5 years old with parent/guardian (older siblings ages 6-7 are welcome to register also if they want to participate).
Only $3 per child! Advance registration is required by May 15 at: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=929

HOMESCHOOL ECOLOGY: Nature's Play Day
2025-05-23 10:00 - 12:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us at McCloud Nature Park for an exciting day of outdoor fun! Participate in various games, challenges, and puzzles while celebrating the beauty of nature. There’s something for everyone, from kickball and egg drops to puzzles and obstacle courses. Enjoy laughter, teamwork, and unforgettable memories with new and old friends!

RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 6-11 WITH PARENT OR GUARDIAN. SIBLINGS ARE WELCOME TO PARTICIPATE, TOO.
FEE: $10/CHILD (PARENT/GUARDIAN IS FREE).
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY MAY 16 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=926
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS
