River Heritage Park
River Heritage Park was first developed in 1998-1999. In 2022, it reopened with a completely reimagined park experience. Whether you’re taking a relaxing walk through nature or hanging out with the kids, this 40-acre park has much to offer. There’s something for everyone!
River Heritage Park received a major overhaul as part of CCPR’s Reimagining Parks initiative with funding from the Clay Township Impact Program. Updates to the park focus on inclusion and providing access to the community’s most significant natural resource: the White River.
Inclusive Playground Experience
The park’s playground has two main sections: the front pod, which is located at the entrance of the park, and the back trail, which winds through the wooded areas extending toward the White River.
Both sections feature play pieces that are wheelchair accessible, including a swing and merry-go-round. Play experiences along the back trail provide options for parkgoers with varying levels of mobility and body strength. The public can look forward to zip lines, climbing structures, and more.
Wheelchair Accessible Nature Trail
A looping .75-mile immersive nature trail invites parkgoers on an adventure through the forest and along the White River. The unique trail has a hard, rubberized surface that is wheelchair friendly.
This surfacing was chosen specifically to give a different, more natural feel as opposed to asphalt. To add to the overall immersive nature theme, the rubber was crafted in rich earth tones and is permeable to easily allow stormwater to filter through the surface.
White River Overlooks
Along the backside of the park, there are two overlooks that offer tranquil viewing of the White River.
The structures, which are fixed several feet from the water’s edge, are wheelchair friendly and feature foot railings for safety and unobstructed viewing for parkgoers who may be in a wheelchair.
River Heritage Park was reimagined thanks to the Clay Township Impact Program and is now open to the public. Take a look back at some of the documents we released throughout the construction process:
Schematic Presentation Playground Rendering Concept Plan
Features
- White River Overlooks
- Playground
- Solid Surface Trails
- Grill
- Picnic Shelter (with electricity)
- Drinking Fountain
- Seasonal Restrooms
- Fishing
Share your experience with us!
Submit a Photo!General Park Rules
For safety and enjoyment of everyone, please follow these rules and courtesies
- PARK OPEN SUNRISE TO SUNSET EXCEPT FOR APPROVED ACTIVITIES
- PARKS ARE TOBACCO, ALCOHOL AND DRUG FREE ZONES
- HELP KEEP YOUR PARKS BEAUTIFUL
- Bag and dispose of pet waste
- Place all litter in appropriate trash containers
- Drive and park only on roadways and designated parking areas
- Wildlife and vegetation should not be disturbed
- HELP KEEP YOUR PARKS SAFE
- Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, spray parks, water features or buildings
- Adult supervision recommended for children in playgrounds and spray parks
- Report inappropriate conduct to Carmel Police
- Motorized vehicles are not permitted on trails or park grounds
- Fires are permitted only in permanent park-provided grills
- Swimming, wading and ice fishing are not permitted
- Skateboards, bicycles, and rollerblades are not permitted in shelters, buildings or on playgrounds
- HELP KEEP YOUR PARKS FUN!
- Keep all pets leashed
- Exercise pets on a leash no longer than 6 feet
- Avoid playing loud music that disturbs others
- Soliciting or use of park for profit is prohibited without a permit
- Help keep wildlife wild – Please do not feed water fowl or wild animal
- Fishing is permitted with fishing license (required for those 18 and over only). May keep 5 total 14″+ Largemouth Bass or 10 total Channel Catfish at any size. Click here for more information.
Report inappropriate conduct to Carmel Police: 317.571.2580
Report maintenance concerns to Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation: 317.573.4044