Creek Stomp Photo Locations Around Indianapolis That You’ll Love
I love, love, love an Indiana summer. The long hazy days, the barefoot adventures, and those creek stomps that somehow turn into core memories. Some of my favorite sessions (families, milestones, and seniors) have happened right at the water’s edge. Creeks bring out everyone’s playful side. Kids forget the camera, parents relax, and real laughter fills every frame.
If you’ve been dreaming of a summer session that feels more like a day outside than a photoshoot, these are my favorite creek stomp photo locations around Indianapolis for photos that are full of life (and maybe a little splash).
(And if you’re not quite ready for a full session, check out my Creek Stomp Minis. They take place every June and are the perfect splash-and-smile experience.)
1. Flowing Well Park | Carmel, Indiana
Address: 5100 E 116th St, Carmel, IN 46033
Flowing Well Park is one of those places that always feels a little bit magical. It’s at the top of the list for a reason- it’s my favorite. The shallow creek winds through shaded woods, creating the perfect mix of movement and calm. It’s easy to access, safe for little ones to splash, and gorgeous in the evening when the sun filters through the trees. Families love the built-in adventure, and the photos always end up full of real connection without forced smiles.
Perfect for: Families with young kids, milestones, and senior sessions with an outdoorsy feel
2. Cool Creek Park | Westfield, Indiana
Address: 2000 E 151st St, Carmel, IN 46033
Cool Creek is a classic and for good reason. It’s spacious, shady, and full of variety with trails, rocks, and water that photographs beautifully in every season. The creek stays shallow most of the year, making it a go-to for relaxed family sessions where kids can throw hunt for crawdads, get dirty, and play.
If you’re looking for moody, documentary photos that feel less posed and more like a memory in motion, this is the spot.
Perfect for: Family and milestone sessions, outdoor-loving seniors
3. Lions Park | Zionsville, Indiana
Address: 115 S Elm St, Zionsville, IN 46077
Tucked in the heart of Zionsville, Lions Park sits right across from Creekside Nature Park and is such an underrated gem. It has that small-town charm you can’t fake, with community gardens, shady paths, and creek areas that are perfect for splashing or wading barefoot. Whether we’re photographing a family, senior, or milestone session, this park has a little bit of everything without ever feeling crowded.
Perfect for: Families, seniors, and milestone sessions with small-town charm
Check out these Creekside Entries in the Journal >>
Honorable Mentions: Creek Spots on My Must-Shoot List
Every summer, I try to scout out new locations — those tucked-away little gems that might be the next big client favorite. These three are at the top of my “let’s make it happen” list.
Bray Family Homestead Park | Noblesville, IN
Address: 4528 Powlen Rd, Noblesville, IN 46062
Quiet, peaceful, and full of potential. There’s a sweet little creek tucked behind the main loop that I’d love to explore with a family who’s up for an adventure.
Marott Park | Indianapolis, IN
Address: 7350 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46240
If you’ve ever wandered through Broad Ripple, you’ve probably driven right past it. Marott has one of the prettiest creek beds in the area — wide, tree-lined, and perfect for those “lost in summer” kinds of photos.
Holliday Park | Indianapolis, IN
Address: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260
While I’ve photographed at the ruins countless times, I haven’t yet shot at the creek here, but I’m itching for the excuse. The mix of architecture and nature makes it one of the most unique session spots in the city.
If one of these catches your eye, let’s go explore it together. You’ll get a discounted session while we make some magic in a new spot — a win-win if there ever was one.
Ready to Plan Your Own Creek Stomp Session?
Whether you’re splashing barefoot with your littles, marking a milestone, or simply soaking up the season, creek sessions are laid-back, playful, and full of joy. Let’s make it happen. Fill out my contact form and we’ll plan something that fits your family perfectly. Follow along on Pinterest for outfit inspiration, or check out my Mini Sessions page to grab your Creek Stomp Mini spot next June.
The Heart Narrative | Indianapolis Family & Milestone Photographer
Photographer: Lauren Lewis | The Heart Narrative
Session Type: Family, Senior, + Milestone Photography
Location: Indianapolis Area, Indiana
Whether you’re planning a full family session or joining me for Creek Stomp Minis, I’d love to capture your family’s story with photos that feel natural, playful, and full of heart.
Let’s document this season — sunshine, splashes, and all.
