Indiana State Parks updating 43 playgrounds with support from Lilly Endowment

Indiana Governor Mike Braun and First Lady Maureen Braun joined the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to celebrate 43 playgrounds updates that are being installed across Indiana State Parks, cutting the ribbon on an updated playground at Fort Harrison State Park in Lawrence. 

These playground updates are made possible as part of a $50 million grant awarded to the Indiana DNR by Lilly Endowment Inc. in 2024. The grant is being used for a variety of enhancements at Indiana State Parks, including $11 million invested into playgrounds.

“Investments into our state parks are an investment into Hoosier health and Hoosier families,” said Governor Braun. “Thanks to the generosity of Lilly Endowment, we are creating spaces for all families to enjoy and experience the very best of Indiana’s outdoors. Indiana state parks and natural resources are part of what makes our state such a special place to live, work, and raise a family.” 

The Indiana DNR is installing a total of 43 playgrounds at Indiana State Parks. The new playgrounds will provide updated equipment and improved accessibility. Sixteen playground installations have already been completed, five more will be complete by early June, and the remainder will be completed by fall 2026. 

Updated playgrounds that have been installed: 

• Mounds State Park: Locust Grove
• Summit Lake State Park: Picnic Area 
• Fort Harrison State Park: Shafter & Cherry Tree
• Brown County State Park: Taylor Ridge, Lower Shelter and Linen Room 
• Lieber SRA: Sunny Acres 
• McCormick’s Creek: Deer Run & Pine Bluff
• Brookville Lake/Whitewater Memorial State Park: Quakertown SRA, Horseman’s Campground, Mounds SRA, and Whitewater Cabin
• Raccoon SRA: Camp Store Playground
• Shakamak State Park: Campground Playfield B

This historic investment is an important part of the statewide effort to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities and improve accessibility across DNR properties, reflecting DNR’s commitment to ensuring that all Hoosiers have the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.