Below are some frequently-asked questions — and their corresponding answers — about our parks and about weddings and special events.
What are your parks’ hours?
All of our parks are open from dawn to dusk daily, barring extreme weather conditions (such as ice).
Admission to our parks is free.
What kind of parking is available at your parks?
McCloud Nature Park has several gravel parking areas and can accommodate up to 100 vehicles.
W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park has 140 paved parking spots.
Paved parking is available around both the Amo and Coatesville trailheads of the Vandalia Trail.
Parking at all of our facilities is free.
May I bring my dog to your parks?
Yes. Dogs are welcome at our parks, as long as they are restrained on a leash and under their owner’s control at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs.
Are there grills at your parks for cookouts?
There are two grills at the McCloud Nature Park pavilion.
Each of the two pavilions at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park has a large grill, and there are smaller grills spread throughout the park.
Outside grills or starting a fire anywhere else on park property are prohibited at all of our parks.
Is alcohol permitted at your parks?
No, alcohol is not permitted at any of our parks.
Are there restrooms at your parks?
We have modern restroom facilities at McCloud Nature Park. One family restroom is located inside the Nature Center. Restrooms are also located on the outside of the Nature Center, on the left side of the building as you look at the front doors.
There are several porta-potties throughout W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park. Modern restrooms are not available at this time.
Modern restrooms are open to the public at the Amo and Coatesville trailheads of the Vandalia Trail from April through October. They are closed and winterized from November through March.
Is overnight camping allowed at your parks?
No, we do not permit overnight camping at any of our parks, except during our Scouting overnighters and family campouts.
Is fishing allowed at your parks?
Yes, you may fish in Big Walnut Creek at McCloud Nature Park and the ponds at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park.
You are required to possess a valid fishing license through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and abide by all state and local laws to fish on our properties.
Is hunting allowed at your parks?
No hunting of any kind is permitted at any of our parks.
Are canopies allowed at your parks?
To shelter your family and friends from the sun, small pop-up canopies that can be purchased in sporting goods stores or other retail shops are permitted during your visit to our parks. However, large party tents (most often, these are rented) are not allowed.
What is your geocaching and letterboxing policy?
Geocaching and Letterboxing Rules | Geocaching and Letterboxing Application
Wedding/Special Event FAQ
We have had many successful weddings at our parks. Here are some of the questions we’ve been asked in the past. Please do not hesitate to contact us with other questions!
Can we get married at one of your parks?
You bet! McCloud Nature Park and W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park are great venues for events such as parties, picnics, meetings, and weddings.
While the park pavilions can be reserved, please keep in mind that the parks remain open to the public, and there may be park programs or other events scheduled on your chosen date.
Weather can also be a factor to consider. As with any outdoor event, it is always a good idea to have a back-up plan in the event of inclement weather.
Can we bring in rented tables and chairs?
Chairs and tables are allowed, but be aware that everything would need to be carried in and out of the park on the day of your event. Another consideration for bringing in chairs is that they may sink into the soft ground if there has been recent rain in the area (this consideration applies to ladies in heels, too).
Are there grills at your parks for cookouts?
There are two grills at the McCloud Nature Park pavilion.
Each of the two pavilions at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park has a large grill.
Outside grills or starting a fire anywhere else on park property are prohibited at all of our parks.
Is alcohol permitted at your parks?
No, alcohol is not permitted at any of our parks.
Are canopies allowed at your parks?
To shelter your family and friends from the sun, small pop-up canopies that can be purchased in sporting goods stores or other retail shops are permitted during your visit to our parks. However, large party tents (most often, these are rented) are not allowed.
Are there restrooms at your parks?
We have modern restroom facilities at McCloud Nature Park. One family restroom is located inside the Nature Center. Restrooms are also located on the outside of the Nature Center, on the left side of the building as you look at the front doors.
There are several porta-potties throughout W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park. Modern restrooms are not available at this time.
What kind of parking is available at your parks?
McCloud Nature Park has several gravel parking areas and can accommodate up to 100 vehicles.
W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park has 140 paved parking spots.
Paved parking is available around both the Amo and Coatesville trailheads of the Vandalia Trail.
Parking at all of our facilities is free.
Can we play music during our wedding ceremony or special event?
Music played at a modest level (that is, music that cannot be heard more than 50 feet away) is permitted at our parks, but amplified music (like a DJ or a live band) is not allowed.
Loud music can impede enjoyment of the park for others, and the quiet enjoyment of nature is the primary purpose of our parks.