Camping No Longer Allowed at Hemlock Cliffs Trailhead
Release Date: Jan 31, 2013
Contact(s): Teena Ligman, Public Affairs Specialist 812-275-5987
Bedford, IN – (January 31, 2013) Camping is no longer allowed at the trailhead and parking area at Hemlock Cliffs. It has long been a popular camping area but this has been the only trailhead on the Hoosier National Forest that allowed camping. “Unfortunately, due to vandalism we have to prohibit camping in this parking area,” said Nancy Myers, recreation planner for the Tell City District.
“Vandalism has become a real problem. People remove and burn the split rail fence for their campfires,” explains Myers. She added that litter is also an increasing problem. Myers noted that the Forest Plan prohibits camping at trailheads, so to be consistent camping is no longer allowed at the Hemlock Cliffs Trailhead and Parking Area.
Parking space at the trailhead is limited and on busy weekends, campers occupy parking spaces.
Patrols will be increased to ensure compliance with the new policy. Violators are subject to a citation and $100 fine.
There are other camping opportunities for people that would still like to camp and explore Hemlock Cliffs for a weekend. For instance, Indian Celina Recreation Area offers two camp loops a short distance away.
Any questions regarding camping at Hemlock Cliffs should be directed to the Tell City Office of the Hoosier at (812) 547-7051 or to nmyers@fs.fed.us.
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The mission of the USDA Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. Recreational activities on our lands contribute $14.5 billion annually to the U.S. economy. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world.