Blue water channel lined with gold and rust colored autumn trees under a clear sky at Fox Island County Park in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Fox Island County Park: Fort Wayne's Hidden Escape Into Nature

Taylor HuffWriter

Aug 15, 20264 min read

Peacefully resting on the southwest side of Fort Wayne, Fox Island County Park is one of northeast Indiana's best places to experience nature without leaving the city. Spanning more than 600 acres of forests, wetlands, ponds, and prairie, with 270 acres as a peaceful nature preserve, visitors have a chance to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a quiet walk, a family adventure, or a place to observe wildlife, Fox Island provides a refreshing escape from everyday life.

A Haven for Wildlife

Fox Island is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers often visit to spot migratory birds, woodpeckers, herons, and waterfowl. Deer, turtles, frogs, and countless other native species can also be found throughout the preserve.

Because much of the land remains protected and undeveloped, the preserve serves as an important habitat for plants and animals. Visitors are encouraged to observe wildlife from a distance and help preserve the natural environment for future generations.

Educational Programs and Nature Experiences

In addition to its trails, Fox Island offers educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Nature programs, guided hikes, and seasonal events help guests learn about local ecosystems and conservation efforts. School groups and families often visit to explore the park while gaining a deeper appreciation for Indiana's natural resources.

The park's nature center provides exhibits and information that help visitors better understand the habitats they encounter on the trails.

Additional Park Perks

Fox Island has a ton to offer, including the “Tree House” exhibit, three picnic shelters, campfire pits, grills, Bowman Lake with a swimming beach, a dedicated doggie beach for your best friend, fishing, playground, and more.

A Fort Wayne Hidden Gem

While Fort Wayne is known for its parks, attractions, and growing downtown, Fox Island County Park remains one of the area's true hidden gems. Its quiet trails, diverse wildlife, and beautiful scenery make it a favorite destination for locals who want to reconnect with nature.

Frequently asked

Quick answers.

The useful details, answered clearly and without the digging.

01

Where is Fox Island County Park?

Fox Island County Park is at 7324 Yohne Rd. in Fort Wayne, Indiana 46809, on the southwest side of the city in Allen County. The park office can be reached at 260-449-3180. It is run by Allen County Parks, not the state park system.

02

How much does it cost to get into Fox Island County Park?

Admission is $3.00 per person age 7 and over, and children under 7 get in free. Fishing costs $2.00 extra and requires a valid Indiana fishing license. Allen County Parks does not accept credit cards, so bring cash or a check. Annual passes for individuals and families run $20 to $45 if you plan to visit often.

03

What are Fox Island County Park's hours?

The gates open at 9 a.m. year round and the closing time shifts with the season: 9 p.m. from the day after Memorial Day through Labor Day, 7 p.m. in spring and early fall, and 6 p.m. through the winter. The gates are locked at closing, so plan to be out before then. The park is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

04

How big is Fox Island County Park?

The park covers 605 acres, and 270 of those acres are set aside as a dedicated State Nature Preserve. It holds the largest continuous forest in Allen County along with a glacial sand dune, marsh, seasonal ponds, wetland forest, and restored prairie.

05

How many miles of trails are at Fox Island?

There are seven miles of marked trails through the preserve. More than six miles of that stays open for cross country skiing in winter, as long as there are four or more inches of snow on the ground.

06

Can you bring your dog to Fox Island County Park?

Yes. Dogs are welcome but must stay on a leash everywhere in the park except the Doggie Beach, which is the only off leash area and the one spot where your dog can swim. You are responsible for your animal at all times.

07

Can you swim at Fox Island County Park?

Yes, Bowman Lake has a swimming beach. There is no lifeguard on duty, so you swim at your own risk. A playground sits near the lake and beach, which makes that side of the park an easy stop with kids.

08

What is there to do at Fox Island besides hiking?

The nature center has classrooms, a gift shop, and exhibits including the "Tree House." Outside there are three picnic shelters, grills, campfire pits by permit only, fishing, a playground, the Bowman Lake swimming beach, and the doggie beach. Allen County Parks also runs nature programs, guided hikes, and seasonal events throughout the year.
Taylor Huff

Taylor Huff

Born and raised in Indiana’s 574, Taylor is a business owner, farm wife, and mom who brings local heart to Get IN by giving you insider tips on the state’s hidden gems.

View all posts →

Keep Exploring Indiana

View all articles

Stay IN the Know

Join 25k+ who know where to go, what's happening, and what's worth their time. Free every Thursday, from all 92 counties, positive news only.

120k+72k+123k+25k+ Hoosiers already read itOne email a weekUnsubscribe anytime