Parks & Recreation
The Ossian Parks and Recreation Department is comprised of five (5) park sites, totaling 80.36 acres. In a community the size of Ossian, this amounts to approximately 1189 square feet per person.
Melching Park
This is the oldest park in Ossian's system. It is located on the northeast side of town on Park Street. Melching Park contains a picnic shelter with restrooms and a small playground area. This park is 5.2 acres.
Sandalwood Park
Sandalwood Park is a small neighborhood park, located in a circle of homes on Greenwood Trail. The only access to this park is through a right of way between two homes, there is no street access to the park. Sandalwood Park offers a handicap accessible playground and a small picnic area. This park is 1.5 acres.
Archbold / Wilson Park
The largest and newest park in Ossian's system is primarily still in development. The existing area consists of a 1.25 mile paved walking/jogging/biking trail lined with trees and benches. The park is handicap accessible. There are extensive plans to develop this area into a community park with many attractions. This park is 62 acres.
Community Baseball Diamonds
The Community Baseball Diamonds are adjacent to the New Park and Ossian Elementary School. This area consists of four ball diamonds (two t-ball and two Little League). The Little League diamonds are lighted. This facility contains all the amenities to go with the diamonds; including restrooms, picnic area and concessions. This facility also houses the Parks and Recreation Department maintenance garage.
Municipal Tennis Courts
The municipal tennis courts are located adjacent to the Ossian Town Hall on Maplewood Street. This park contains a picnic pavilion and two lighted tennis courts. This park contains 3.16 acres.
Ossian Elementary School
Ossian has one school within its boundaries, the Ossian Elementary School. This school is located on State Road 1 adjacent to the Archbold / Wilson Park, and the Community Ball Diamonds. The school has an on-site playground for all ages, a full size basketball court and several soccer fields.
Other Recreation Areas and Facilities
To the south of Ossian, located within Wells County, are several recreation areas. The city of Bluffton offers a wide range of park facilities and programs. Also south of Ossian is Ouabache State Park, which is operated by IDNR. Another IDNR site is the Deem Oak Nature Preserve on State Road 116 south of Bluffton.
Recreation Programming
Currently, outside entities provide recreational programming using Park Department facilities. A recent survey suggests an interest in additional recreational programming and expanded facilities. Development of the Archbold / Wilson Park will provide these opportunites for kids, adults, and families.