Enjoy A Fun-Filled Day at Pecar Park & Nature Center
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After opening in 2019, Pecar Park might have been called one of Hendricks County, Indiana’s hidden gems.
However, as Washington Township Parks continues to develop new programs and additions, it's becoming more of a go-to for outdoor (and indoor) fun.
My family has enjoyed visiting with the live animals in the Nature Center. But as the kids get older, the options for fun things to do at Pecar Park continue to expand.
Spend Time with Jack & Diane
The indoor Nature Center is home to a variety of animals. In addition to the two famous African Spurred Tortoises named Jack and Diane, it’s not uncommon to see snakes, lizards, frogs and other creatures at Pecar Park.
They even host feeding times if you want to get up close and personal, and it’s all free.
Take a Class
Care to try your hand at candle making, pottery or painting? Or perhaps your homeschool student wants to learn more about plants, animals and nature?
Pecar Park offers a variety of classes (some require registration) for the entire community to experience something new.
Camp at the Park
Pecar is the only park in the county to offer public campsites for a small rental fee. Each of the 10 locations offers a fire ring, picnic table and trash can.
They are within walking distance of an indoor bathroom and shower facility, too. Enjoy an evening under the stars with family and friends this summer and fall.
Explore Nature
Take a walk outside to explore the wetland and pond area. Search for a variety of animals that live in the water, like tadpoles, fish and ducks.
If you happen to have a kayak, you can take it out on the water for a small fee. Don’t miss the prairie just beyond the pond and a variety of programs that walk you through nature, hiking, stargazing and more.
Time for Play
The nature-based playground equipment features a rock-climbing apparatus, short zipline, swings and slides, including ADA-accessible swings.
When the kids get tired of the playground, head over to the low-ropes ninja course with challenging obstacles. Fair warning: there’s not much shade in the playground area, so be sure to bring lots of sunscreen and water.
The Archery Range
Have you ever thought about trying archery? Now you can with Pecar’s six archery lanes available for rent.
Each lane comes with equipment (for beginner and intermediate use only), and a certified archery instructor will be on hand. In fact, there are plenty of opportunities to try it out, from 30-minute free sessions to four-week courses.
Glowing in Nature
The Glow Lab inside the Nature Center should not be missed.
There’s something fun about glow sticks and necklaces, but Pecar Park takes things to a whole new level with glowing tanks of fish, jellyfish, salamanders and other critters. Look for glow-themed crafts and activities throughout the year, too.
Pock Park
In an effort to add trails and access to the wooded areas around Pecar, the Bob and Grace Pock Park was established in 2021. Take a hike through Pock Pass, Morel March and Creeping Cricket and don’t miss the Civil War-era cabin.
Pecar Park is located at 5203 E. County Road 150 North, Avon. For more information, visit the Washington Township Parks and Recreation website.
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