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Central Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 2,419 Google reviews · Running trail in Mishawaka, Indiana · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Central Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Varying-sized pavilions dot this park featuring a playground, splash pads and tennis courts.
What runners say about Central Park
“There's a police presence, restrooms are close to the fun, they offer free lunches for kids, and the playground is in working status and well maintained.”
“It is a beautiful walk, but the only negative that presents itself with central Park is the goose droppings.”
“Lots of good activities with live music 🎶, people are very friendly and kind, a very peaceful place with beautiful views 😀”
This is a nice place. Has nice picnic area, lots of places for walking, cycling, etc. Great place for kids to play, The fountain is also very good. That river dam looks very nice, so many people were fishing on river. The wooden sculptures are also awesome addition.
Absolutely beautiful outdoor space in Mishawaka. I grew up near here and envy folks who can appreciate this space now. A wonderful river walk, playground, and water pad for kids to cool off in. Aesthetically lovely. Encourage you to stop by if you are in the area!!
My wife and I love walking through this park. It's scenic, well-kept, and just a lovely walk. I'm a little too old to run through the sprinkler system in the summer but I am tempted. We just wish we lived closer.
Central Park in Mishawaka is an amazing spot for outdoor activities, especially walking and running! The natural scenery is beautiful and refreshing, making every run feel peaceful and energizing. Running along the river adds a special touch, with the water and surrounding greenery creating a calming atmosphere.
Trail conditions & character
“It is a beautiful walk, but the only negative that presents itself with central Park is the goose droppings.”
“There is a restroom area which contains SEVERAL family restrooms, each with changing stations, convenient for bathroom breaks or changing into/out of swim suits.”
“Parking is free and plentiful for a Saturday afternoon.”
“Lots of good activities with live music 🎶, people are very friendly and kind, a very peaceful place with beautiful views 😀”
“Central Park is a great place to take the kids to play on the playground and in the summertime to play in the water fountains.”
“Only thing I didn’t like you might get so much dog poop on the grass!”
“I love having a walk there, it's stroller friendly with the beautiful view of the river!”
Plan your run at Central Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitemishawaka.in.gov
- Phone(574) 258-1664
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM–10 PM |
Running trails near Mishawaka
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Robert C. Beutter Riverfront Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 830 reviews
Scenic park & gardens offering a network of walking trails along the river & summer concerts.
Mishawaka Riverwalk
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Clean, scenic park, playground and walking trail along the Riverwalk.
Battell Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 1,146 reviews
Riverside green space featuring a historic bandshell for summer concerts, plus picnic & play areas.
Kamm Island Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 374 reviews
7.5-acre green space offering riverside fishing areas, walking trails & fields for picnic & events.
Crawford Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 188 reviews
Park with a playground, picnic tables, a volleyball court, and walking paths along the river.
Merrifield Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 703 reviews
Riverside park featuring athletic fields, a playground, swimming pool & an ice-skating rink.