Special Places

There's something for almost everyone. The Hoosier has two scenic byways and many historic sites. South central Indiana communities offer hospitality, festivals, and attractions to compliment your visit. Whatever interests you in the great out-of-doors, there's bound to be something on the Hoosier National Forest for you. Come out and explore America's Great Outdoors!

Quick Links

Highlighted Areas

Links below highlight some popular and interesting sites on the Hoosier National Forest. Some areas were identified to manage and protect unique ecosystems, for example Clover Lick Barrens. Rockshelters, bluffs, and coves provide interesting places on the Forest and are home to many rare plants.  gives the general area where each of these sites are located.

Buffalo Trace 

An historic pathway used by migrating buffalo from the Falls of the Ohio River near Louisville to Vincennes where they crossed into the Illinois prairie. (10)

Buzzard Roost

Scenic views and trail along the Ohio River. (1)

Caves and Karst

Much of the Forest is underlain with caves and karst features. Entering caves on the Hoosier National Forest is prohibited between September 1 and April 30 each year. These restrictions are in place to protect federally endangered bat species. 

Charles C. Deam Wilderness

Indiana's only Congressionally designated wilderness area has 13,000 acres providing for solitude and a remote experience. (2)

Clover Lick Barrens

Shallow soils and rock outcrops are found in these prairie-like, fire-dependent ecosystems, home to many rare species. (8)

Hemlock Cliffs 

A box-shaped canyon with sandstone formations, seasonal waterfalls and rockshelters. (5)

Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower

Constructed by the CCC in 1939. This historic tower is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register. (2)

Mano Point

Once a prehistoric village, this area is now a picknick site and river access along the Ohio River. (8)

Initial Point

The first survey point established in Indiana. (11)

Lick Creek African American Settlement

Site of a 1815-1900 African American settlement. (4)

Orienteering Area -

Established course with 25 markers developed in cooperation with a local orienteering group. The course was recently updated by a local Eagle Scout. Maintained on an irregular schedule by volunteers. (9)

Pioneer Mother's Memorial Forest

An 88 acre virgin old-growth forest and archaeological site. The Forest's only Research Natural Area. (3)

Rickenbaugh House

A stone house built in 1874, used as a local post office and church meeting house. Now on the National Register of Historic Places. (6)

Sundance Lake

A beautiful 5 acre lake with accessible fishing piers. (7)

Watchable Wildlife Sites

Five sites are identified on the Hoosier with diverse populations of wildlife species.

Wesley Chapel Gulf

This National Natural Landmark is an 8 acre collapsed sinkhole with an alluvial floor which provides a window to the underground river system. (10)