Sodalis Nature Park

This is a pretty nature park. Do not go expecting a playground, because there isn’t one. But there is a long trail to hike that winds around the lake, where you can see beavers, and there’s lots of pretty nature to observe. Along the trail are informational signs that tell you about the wildlife that lives in the area, such as bats, deer and other critters. We didn’t see any of them, but I think those animals are nocturnal anyway!
This is an excellent park to have a barbecue, as there are many grills and picnic benches. Lots of trees and shade, too. When we went, we saw people fishing, so you can do that, as well.
Restrooms are at the entrance of the park — basically four portable toilets. Dogs must stay on leash at all times. The park is open from dawn to dusk.

I am so stoked that I discovered this gem only a few minutes from my home. One of my favorite things about Indiana is it’s ability to take you from the city to the middle of nowhere in a matter of minutes. This park is a perfect example of this.
There is a huge lake, several different trails and picnic benches along the way to stop to eat if you want to bring lunch. The trails are easy and kid friendly, no mountainous terrain here.
This has been my favorite discovery thus far and such a sweet, sweet surprise.

I’ve come here with my family many times. It’s our go to park for hiking when we’re in the mood for a little hiking and don’t want to drive to a state park. It’s got a nice sized lake and there are usually a couple of people fishing. The trails are nice and short (great for the little ones). It’s also a very clean park and well maintained. The only downsides are…
1. Stinky port-​O-​potties
2. If it’s been raining the trails can get really muddy
3. No playground
4. Only one shelter house
Other than those little inconveniences it’s a great spot for an afternoon hike.

Hendricks County parks are one of the Indy-area’s best kept secrets, in my opinion. They are so great, I don’t think they should be a secret! Sodalis is near-&-dear to my heart, because I grew up in this «neighborhood» before the Indy Airport started buying all of the property. It’s a small’ish park that only has about 3.5 miles of trails, but it is totally worth the drive in my opinion.
Sodalis is a great little nature park that features picnic areas, a pavilion, a cute little lake (that you can fish at with a valid state fishing license, catch & release only), & great easy nature trails. If you are a beginning trail-​runner, this would be a GREAT park for you to visit. The trails are wide, mostly flat’ish, and varying surface consistency. If you need to escape the city, and want a pleasant walk in the woods, Sodalis would be a great option. It’s located in close proximity to I-​70 at the Plainfield exit. There are chances to see local wildlife. They also have benches located along the trails, if you just want to sit down & enjoy nature without getting dirt on your pants :-).
As of 6÷3÷15, there is not an entrance fee or a day use cost (there is a cost to reserve the shelter house). It’s an amazing little park to be free! If you feel inspired after your visit though, go to their website & make a donation. There should be more free green spaces like this in communities around the state!