10 Best Parks for Family Photos in Hamilton County and North Indianapolis
Finding the right park for your family photos can make all the difference. Around Hamilton County and the north side of Indianapolis, there’s no shortage of beautiful outdoor spaces — from quiet wooded trails and creeks to wide open fields and golden sunsets.
As a local family photographer, I spend a lot of time exploring spots that photograph beautifully while keeping things easy and relaxed for parents and kids. The parks on this list are my tried-and-true favorites for family photos across Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fishers, Sheridan, and beyond. Each one has its own personality, but all of them are perfect for creating photos that feel real, connected, and full of heart.
1. MacGregor Park – Westfield, IN
MacGregor Park is tucked just off State Road 38 and has everything from shady wooded trails to tall, golden grass. It’s quiet, spacious, and one of my favorite Westfield locations for relaxed family photos. It’s at its best in the summer, with the blooming wildflower fields, or in the fall, with those wildflowers and grasses turning golden and the trees showing off the range of colors just right. Bonus points? It’s right off 38 and 31, easy to get to and often a great central location for extended family sessions, where families are coming from different parts of Hamilton County or Northern Indianapolis. If your family isn’t afraid to explore- pivoting to the more wooded trails and streams gives big “folklore” vibes.
Why I love it: You can explore both wooded and open areas in one session. The light here is always soft and flattering.
Best time to shoot: Morning or Evening, when the sun peeks through the trees.
Pro Tip: This is a nice park for minis or those with mobility issues, as the best shooting spots are close to the parking lot.
Check out Summer and Fall Minis at Macgregor Park >>
2. Flowing Well Park – Carmel, IN
Flowing Well Park is perfect if your family loves to play. I love it for busy families who want less “family in a field” and more of a playful, documentary vibe. With its winding trails and shallow creek, kids can splash and explore while I capture real moments. It’s really a great spot year round, with the full trees, leading lines with the red bridge, and rock covered creek bed, but is best in the summer and early fall. The bathrooms are always clean, and there is a place to rinse dirty feet near the entrance. This space is better for families who aren’t afraid to walk a little to get to the creek location.
Why I love it: The light reflecting off the water creates a beautiful glow.
Best time to shoot: Morning or evening- this is a good spot for those with young children who can’t hang until sunset, and is good a solid 2.5 hours after sunrise or before sunset.
Pro tip: It can get busy on weekends, so weekdays are best if you want more privacy- just don’t forget a change of clothes!
See my favorite Creek Stomp locations in the Indianapolis Area >>
3. Koteewi Park – Noblesville, IN
Koteewi Park offers that classic Indiana countryside feel. It’s great for a diverse gallery- full of open fields, rustic fences, and mature trees with forest trails, giving a perfect mix of light and texture for photos. This Hamilton County park is easy access for both Cicero and Noblesville families and Seniors. I particularly love this park for longer legacy sessions, because there is so much variety for a little bit of a walk.
Why I love it: It feels peaceful and open, but still close to town, and isn’t over-used by local family photographers
Best time to shoot: Golden hour or early fall for warm, rich color- stay away from spots near the white river in peak summer, it’s too buggy.
Pro tip: Bring bug spray. The grass can get tall in late summer and White River is home to a lot of mosquitos.
Book Family Photos in Noblesville, In >>
4. Cool Creek Park – Westfield, IN
Cool Creek Park has bridges, streams, and plenty of trails that make family photos feel relaxed and natural. It’s great for families who like a little bit of adventure mixed in. Easy access to bathrooms for changing and potty breaks, and the nature center and park are great incentives for family time once family photos are done.
Why I love it: The tall trees filter light beautifully, and the wooden bridges add charm.
Best time to shoot: Great year round, there’s a space for cool elements all year. It’s also great for both sunrise and sunset sessions.
Pro tip: Weekdays are quieter and easier for families with young kids.
View Parker’s Milestone Breastfeeding Photoshoot >>
5. Coxhall Gardens – Carmel, IN
If you love a polished, timeless look, Coxhall Gardens is the perfect spot. Between the ponds, fountains, and open lawns, it offers elegant backdrops without feeling too formal. It’s a fan favorite for Seniors in particular who want a variety of brick (the Mansion), structure (the amphitheater). water, and open greens fields.
Why I love it: It’s bright and open, with clean lines that make every photo look intentional.
Best time to shoot: Just before sunset for soft, glowing light.
Pro tip: Dress up a little- this is a very polished “Carmel” style park. Neutrals and soft tones look amazing here.
View Cap and Gown Photos at Coxhall Gardens Park in Carmel, IN >>
6. West Park – Carmel, IN
West Park recently went through a major renovation, and it’s a great place for family photos. With tall grass, pond and boardwalk, and fun hill, it’s the perfect mix of natural and accessible. It has ample parking and clean bathrooms.
Why I love it: There’s a ton of variety in a small space — wood paths, meadows, and open lawns that catch sunset light beautifully.
Best time to shoot: Sunset Golden hour for soft, even light- it’s best in the summer and fall.
Pro tip: The playground is nearby, so it’s easy to mix in some relaxed, candid moments before or after your session.
See Northern Indianapolis Family Photo Pricing and Packages>>
7. Flat Fork Creek Park – Fishers, IN
Flat Fork Creek Park is always a favorite for Fishers families who love to move. With its bridges, trails, and that big hill that catches golden light, it’s one of the most versatile parks for photos. It’s pretty year round- from the snow covered hill, to the tall grasses and wooded trails. Its a stunning fan favorite for north east side family and maternity photos.
Why I love it: You can get a mix of natural light, open sky, and forest shade in one spot.
Best time to shoot: Golden hour for a warm, glowing look- Sunset is great but mornings here are my favorite.
Pro tip: This park photographs beautifully in every season, even winter.
Check out the Calhoun Extended Family Photos at Flat Fork Creek Park >>
8. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve – Fishers, IN
Ritchey Woods is right between Fishers and Carmel, just a hop from Conner Prairie and across the street from the Hamilton County Humane Society. It’s quiet and simple, with soft light and easy walking trails. It’s perfect for families who want calm, connection-focused photos surrounded by nature. Fall minis here are always a favorite, and the leading lines the trails provide are perfect for photos and keeping busy toddlers from running too far during sessions.
Why I love it: The shade from the trees gives consistent lighting through the year.
Best time to shoot: Early morning or right before sunset.
Pro tip: There are no easy access bathrooms here, so keep in mind for potty training toddlers.
Book your sunset fall minis at Ritchey Woods >>
9. Westermeier Commons (Central Park) – Carmel, IN
Westermeier Commons, also known as Central Park, is one of Carmel’s most popular spots for family photos, and for good reason. The park combines paved trails, tall grasses, a fishing pond with boardwalk and bridge, and plenty of design elements that give your photos a clean, polished look while still feeling like you’re in nature.
Why I love it: The variety here is incredible. You can move from modern stonework and paths to soft grass and sky in just a few minutes.
Best time to shoot: Sunset and sunrise are perfect here for soft light and vibrant color, and the bridge and boardwalk mean it’s great year-round.
Pro tip: This park can be busy, especially around the playground and in the fall, so give yourself time to find parking and find me in the meeting spot.
Check out this extended family shoot at Westermier Commons Park >>
10. Veterans Park – Sheridan, IN
Sheridan’s Veterans Park is a Hamilton County hidden gem-small but full of charm. It has open green space, and tall trees, and is walking distance to rustic downtown Sheridan and the Monon Trail. It’s a great family photo location if you want some variety.
Why I love it: It’s quiet and easy, especially for local families who want a short drive and a familiar spot.
Best time to shoot: Sunset for soft, even light.
Pro tip: This park shoots best in early to mid april, when the entire field blooms with grape hyacinth flowers.
Choosing the Right Park for Your Family Photos
Each of these parks offers something special — from creekside fun to wide open fields. The best location is the one that fits your family’s personality and energy. Whether you love running barefoot through tall grass or sitting together under the trees, we’ll find the perfect backdrop for your story.
If you’re ready to start planning, take a look at Family Photography with The Heart Narrative. Together we’ll create photos that feel warm, genuine, and full of heart.
