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Discover Indiana's Parks
Explore the parks departments across Indiana and see what each county has to offer. Find your local parks, activities, and programs today!
County Map & Guide
Explore Indiana Parks Departments by County
The map on the left is a visual guide to help you find parks departments across Indiana, divided by numbered regions. Each number on the map corresponds to a specific region, and below you'll find links to the parks departments for each area. Simply match the numbers on the map with the regional listings to explore parks, outdoor activities, and programs in your region. This guide makes it easy to discover and connect with parks departments across the state, ensuring you can find the best nature experiences near you.
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Nature's Impact on Well-Being
Reduced Risk of Anxiety Disorders:
A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2020 examined the role of parks in mitigating the negative impacts of adverse childhood events (ACEs) on children's mental health. The researchers found that children who had access to parks and green spaces were better able to cope with the effects of ACEs, such as trauma, abuse, or household dysfunction. These children exhibited lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety compared to those who did not have access to parks. The study suggests that parks can serve as protective factors for children exposed to adversity, providing opportunities for play, social interaction, and relaxation that contribute to improved mental health outcomes.
(Source: Taylor, J., et al. (2020). Green Space and Adverse Childhood Experiences: Examining the Association with Children’s Emotional and Behavioral Well-Being.)
Improved Sleep Quality:
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics in 2020 investigated the association between access to green spaces, such as parks, and adolescent suicide rates. The researchers found that adolescents living in areas with greater access to green spaces had lower suicide rates compared to those living in areas with less green space. The study suggests that the presence of parks and natural environments may serve as protective factors against suicide in adolescents by providing opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and relaxation, which contribute to improved mental health and well-being.
(Source: Lefebvre, A., et al. (2020). Association of Surrounding Greenness With Adolescent Suicide Among Urban Residents.)