We recently visited the Helen Pecar Memorial Park—a new Washington Township nature park at 5203 E. CR 150 N in Avon that opened at the end of April. There is a parking lot at the entrance of the facility of about 40 spots, Five of those handicapped. It is very peaceful and there is no need to worry about crowds. Whether you want to take a half-hour trip or stay for a few days, this is a perfect place to escape electronics and learn about nature and being active.
You will first encounter a Nature Center. It is open from 10 am-3 pm and has begun offering classes and events, such as as a rehabilitated wildlife release and Bunny Yoga Monday evenings during the month of May. Hiking with Snow White and a Critter’s Chance will be on June 2. The Nature Center has tortoises that have a door they can exit and walk around, a Bearded Dragon and other wildlife and geology exhibits. It can also has a kitchen and can be rented for events. There is a drink vending machine, two water fountains and several bird feeders for bird watching on the backside of the Center. An oversized wooden Jenga game is on the porch with a fun fact engraved in each piece.
Two bathrooms are at the side of the nature center building with two stalls each. An accessible shower and changing area are within each bathroom, but no changing table.
There is one small plastic treehouse style playground with mulch ground cover. It has swinging rings, a single slide and a double slide. The swing area has two regular swings, one parent and child swing and one ADA swing with an overhead harness. There is also a trampoline swing, a Sit N’ Spin, a log tunnel and a boulder climber. A Gaga Pit is nearby. Two wooden benches are available for parents to sit on and observe.
To the side of the playground is an outdoor classroom, and a nice contained outdoor area housing pigeons rescued by a Critter’s Chance. My son Carson loved seeing what the birds eat and how they interact. There is a shared fire pit with bench for campers to enjoy. A low ropes challenge will be introduced in the fall.
To the side of the playground is an outdoor classroom, and a nice contained outdoor area housing pigeons rescued by a Critter’s Chance. My son Carson loved seeing what the birds eat and how they interact. There is a shared fire pit with bench for campers to enjoy. A low ropes challenge will be introduced in the fall.
There is a primitive campground (no RVs or electricity allowed) with 8 campsites around a gravel path loop, each including a picnic table and a trash can. These sites can be reserved for $15 for residents and $25 for non-residents. Reservations must be made at least 2 days ahead of time. It is open Thursday at Noon through Sunday at 8 pm and some holidays with quiet hours between 10 pm-6 am.
Although the park is surrounded by trees, the park is all open area inside with no shade. The field was a bit muddy as the grass is still growing in after construction. I would suggest walking on the rock path to get around and not wearing sandals, especially after a rain.
Follow the path by the windmill around and back to the Raccoon Lagoon. Park approved boats are allowed to enter the water, and kayaks are available to rent.
Pecar Park is just a short drive to McDonalds (with an updated playground!), Dairy Queen and Orange Leaf if you would like to grab a bite to eat or a treat before or after visiting.
Address
5203 E County Rd 150 N
Avon
IN
Visit Helen Pecar Memorial Park | Avon