Have you heard of Belmont Beach in Indianapolis? Well, it's not quite a beach, but Haughville's historic Belmont Beach — located on the near west side of downtown — is a sandy area to relax and soak in the views of the White River.

For generations of Black residents, Belmont Beach was the only place in Indy where they could access swimming recreation during an era where there were segregated parks + public pools. Now, the Belmont Beach initiative "seeks to salvage this overlooked and overgrown area" into a place where the community can gather and engage in positive change.

Neighborhood volunteers have built the pop-up park with a play area, picnic areas, fire pits, and a performance platform. Plus, there's a small loop mulch trail to explore, the sand "beach" area, and fishing opportunities (you will need a DNR licensecould link out to the license application here - good idea! to fish).

Events

The grassroots community initiative is organizing events throughout the summer to activate the area.

Saturday, May 11 | Meditation and nature hike
Saturday, May 18 | Gardening workshop
Friday, May 31 | Westside maker's market + movie night
Saturday, June 8 | Meditation and nature hike
Saturday, June 22 | Gardening workshop
Friday, June 28 | Westside maker's market + movie night
Thursday, July 4 | Fireworks at Belmont
Saturday, July 13 | BLACK: A Festival of Joy at Riverside Park

See the full schedule.

Community volunteers built the pop-up park at Belmont Beach. | Photo by INDYtoday team

Know before you go

Address: 2020 N. White River Pkwy W. Dr.
Pro tip: You can also access the park on IndyGo Route 37 or via bike lanes on White River Parkway.
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Parking: Limited parking is available. You can find additional parking across White River Parkway on Belmont Avenue. Use caution when crossing White River Parkway.
Restrooms and water: Portable restrooms are available. There is no drinking water available.
Hosting an event: Belmont Beach is a privately-managed space + all organized events and activities with more than 20 people must be approved by the resident managing committeecould link to a contact form/info here?.
Pet policy: Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. You are responsible for cleaning up after your pet.
Camping: Overnight camping is not permitted.
Water warning: Stay off the dam. Swimming is very dangerous here. Use of this park and adjacent natural areas comes with risk, so please be responsible and use caution.