Strawtown Koteewi Park is the largest and most scenic park in Hamilton County, Indiana! The park encompasses nearly 800 acres, offers over 9 miles of multi-use trails and stretches along three miles of the White River. The grounds exhibit a biodiversity in their rich woodlands, historic wetlands and immense prairie, and are home to a broad spectrum of wildlife species. Equally diverse is the offering of exciting activities that include adventures in treetops, on horseback, downriver, downhill, at an archery range, and even in the field of archaeology.

Pronounced ko-TAY-wee, Koteewi means “fire” and possibly “prairie” in the Miami-Peoria language. The name pays homage to the Native Americans that called the land “home” over the centuries. Care has been taken to preserve and respect the historic significance of the land. Guests to the park can witness that care manifest in the Taylor Center of Natural History, located in the park.

Consider this your personal invitation to visit Strawtown Koteewi Park…let the adventures begin!

Strawtown Koteewi Park, Hamilton County Earn Spot on Reader’s Digest Affordable Mini Family Vacations List. To view the article visit their website!

Park History

View the Strawtown Koteewi Park history page for more information.

Park Attractions

If history doesn't interest you, this park also includes a canoe launch on the White River for boating and fishing, nature trails for hiking or cycling, equestrian trails for riding, and wetlands and prairies for enjoying the park's natural beauty. 

Many exciting future developments are planned for the county's largest park including a lake, expanded trail system, and a lodge. Check out the already completed adventures today! You can find out more information about these areas below. 

Koteewi Range - Sport & Target Archery Center

Operated by Tony Girt 
Start your archery adventure with us! Koteewi Range provides five special purpose ranges for all ages and levels of archery experience...from beginner to pro! Bring your own equipment or we’ll rent you ours. Koteewi Range offers camps, classes, lessons, parties, team-building activities and archery tournaments. For rates, hours and booking your reservation visit Koteewi Archery Range online or call 317-776-8472. 

Koteewi Aerial Adventures - Treetop Trails

Operated by Signature Research
Explore the woods in a whole new way! Five different treetop courses, from 16’ high to 60’ high, offer a mix of elements and ziplines, challenging ALL skill types. Enjoy adventures lasting from two to three hours. Spend time differently during your visit and all returning visits! Hours vary by season. For current hours and booking visit koteewiadventures.com or their Facebook page. Call 800-590-8347. 

Koteewi Equine Experience

Operated by H&H Trails
Fun, family adventure is the primary focus of Koteewi Equine Experience! A variety of trail ride experiences have been designed with your family in mind. Guests will be provided a demonstration covering the fundamentals in trail riding, a riding helmet and assigned a horse best suited for them. The basic trail ride is a ninety-minute experience. Longer rides and private family experiences are available. Riders must be 7 years old or older. Parent/guardian-assisted pony rides are available for children younger than 7. Pony rides are available for guests with special needs requiring additional assistance. Call 317-770-8835 for rates. Book reservations at https://www.koteewiequineexperience.com.

Koteewi Run - Seasonal Slopes Snow Tubing Adventures

Operated by Outdoor Excursions, Inc. 
Take a breathtaking, 700’ ride down Central Indiana’s only specialized snow tubing hill. Man-made snow, groomed lanes, custom tubes, and a tow line that makes return visits to the top of the hill a breeze, combine for ALL DAY fun at Koteewi Run! For reservations, to learn more about reservations, seasonal times of operation, rates, discounts, gift cards, and general facility information, please visit koteewi-adventures.com or call 317-776-9199.

Koteewi Trace - Archaeology Adventures

Take a short walk outside the Taylor Center and visit Koteewi Trace, a replicated Native American village site. Guests are encouraged to enter the life-sized structures where they are transported back in history to a time when it is believed that similar architecture once dotted the park landscape. While visiting Koteewi Trace, explore the one-of-a-kind “mock dig” site to learn more about the fascinating science and methodology of archaeology.

Koteewi Lake
The twenty-acre body of water provides ample fishing challenges for serious sportsman, as well as novice anglers. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources monitors the lake - and a valid fishing license is required. And while swimming is not permitted, quiet boating activities - canoeing, kayaking and sailing - will allow casual navigation and enjoyment of nearby wildlife. The boat ramp will accommodate a variety of watercraft (use of electric trolling motors only). Lakeside, you'll find free public parking, as well as shelter available on a first come - first served basis.

Property History

Researchers have discovered that the major occupancy of this property dates back to 1200-1400 A.D. Artifacts found include arrowheads, pottery and remains of what the occupants may have eaten, including bear and elk. Researchers have also discovered evidence of post holes, storage pits and fire pits that show the location of early villages and huts on the property.

Taylor Center of Natural History

Visitors are encouraged to visit the Taylor Center of Natural History to learn about the exciting archaeological discoveries that have been uncovered at Strawtown Koteewi Park. Artifacts and educational displays remind park guests that the land that is now Strawtown Koteewi Park holds a rich and fascinating history.

The center is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Programs & Events

Together, the Taylor Center of Natural History and Strawtown Koteewi Park offer a variety of programs, focused on topics ranging from Native Americans to star gazing, and bird/nature hikes to history. Check out our Calendar for upcoming programs and events.