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Recreation
The Hoosier National Forest is within a 2-hour drive of Cincinnati, Evansville, Indianapolis, and Louisville. The Forest offers people a tranquil setting to explore, fish, hike, hunt and reconnect with nature. There are over 260 miles of trails on the forest for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. Trail systems may be open to more than one type of use, so please be courteous to other users.
Please note: To reduce our paper use, printed trail maps will no longer be available at trailhead kiosks when current supplies run out.
Quick Links
Recreation Conditions Report
| Area Name | Status | Area Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Birdseye Trail | Open | |
| Charles C. Deam Wilderness | Open | Be aware that Tower Ridge Road is a rough, gravel road that is not maintained in the winter. Hunter's Creek Road to the south is a paved road alternative. |
| German Ridge Recreation Area | Open | |
| Hardin Ridge Recreation Area | Open | |
| Hickory Ridge Fire Tower | Open | Parking is limited. Have a plan to visit another site or trail if this site is full. If possible plan your visit during non-peak times such as mornings, and weekdays. Due to the nature of the tower, social distancing can be challenging. |
| Hickory Ridge Trail | Open |
|
| Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area | Open | |
| Lick Creek Trail | Open | |
| Saddle Lake Recreation Area | Open | |
| Springs Valley Trail and Boat Launch | Open | |
| Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area | Open | |
| Two Lakes Loop Trail | Open |
Spotlights
Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area
Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area is located two miles south of Interstate 64 off Indiana 37. It offers opportunities for both overnight and day use, with two camping loops and two lakes that offer paddling, fishing and boating (electric motors only), and two trails for hiking. This area is operated by a concessionaire under a special use permit issued by the Forest Service from mid-April through late October.
Rickenbaugh House
This sandstone block house was built in 1874 by Jacob Rickenbaugh. The house has been renovated and is open periodically during the summer months when staff is available. Interpretive programs are given at the amphitheater next to the historic house and tours of the house are scheduled regularly. A nature store with souvenier and educational items is located inside the house.
A downloadable flier with information is available - click here.
Hardin Ridge Recreation Area
Hardin Ridge Recreation Area is located on Monroe Lake south of Bloomington, Indiana. This recreation area offers six campground loops, two picnic areas and three shelterhouses, two of which are available for reservation, a three lane boat launch, a swim beach with shelter and showerhouse, hiking trails, and two rental cabins on the lake. The campground loops offer modern restroom and shower facilities. This area is operated by a concessionaire under a special use permit issued by the Forest Service from mid-April through mid to late October.
