Southwestway Park facts for kids

Southwestway Park is one of the biggest parks in Indianapolis, Indiana. It's located on the southwest side of the city, right next to the White River. This large park covers about 487.5 acres, which is like having over 370 football fields! It's a great place to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities.

How the Park Grew

Early Days and First Land

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, the Indianapolis Parks Department wanted to create large parks all around Marion County. They bought 150 acres of farmland near the White River. In 1968, 100 acres of this land became a 9-hole golf course.

More Land for the Park

Later in 1968, the city bought another 167 acres of land. This new area was once used for off-road motorcycling. However, because of environmental concerns, the city decided not to allow motorcycling there. In 1984, the city added 40 more acres. At this point, the park and golf course together were 357 acres.

Expanding the Golf Course

By 2004, the golf course, now called Winding River Golf Course, had grown. It became an 18-hole course with a driving range, covering 175.8 acres. The park itself was 210.7 acres.

Final Size of the Park

In 2002, the Indianapolis Parks Foundation and the city bought 101 more acres. This land was next to Southwestway Park and along the White River. This final purchase brought the total size of the park and golf course to 487.5 acres.

Fun Things to Do

Southwestway Park offers many ways to enjoy the outdoors:

• Hiking trails for walking and exploring
• Mountain biking trails for adventurous rides
• Horseback riding trails for equestrian fun
• A playground for kids to enjoy
• One shelter building for picnics and gatherings
• Eight soccer fields for games
• Three baseball or softball diamonds for sports

Nature in the Park

Southwestway Park has some amazing natural areas in central Indiana. These areas are home to different types of plants and animals.

Types of Natural Areas

You can find several unique natural spots here:

• Floodplain forest: This is a forest that grows in areas that sometimes flood, like near the White River.
• Mesic upland forest: This is a forest on higher ground that has a good amount of moisture.
• Graminoid fen: This is a special type of wetland with grass-like plants.
• Successional fields: These are open fields where new plants are starting to grow.
• Cottonwood Lake: A peaceful lake within the park.
• The White River itself, which borders the park.

Wildlife in the Park

A very special sight in Southwestway Park is the pair of bald eagles. These eagles have built a nest near the White River and have successfully raised their young there!