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Recreation
Storm Damage Updates
Due to a severe storm on 6/25/24 there are many trees down on trails in the northern end of Hoosier National Forest. Campgrounds are open, but individual campsites may be temporarily closed. If you choose to visit, use caution and be aware of the potential for falling trees and branches, and trail blockages.
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
Current Recreation Conditions
| Area Name | Status | Area Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Birdseye Trail | Open | |
| Charles C. Deam Wilderness | Open | Designated campsite #21 is closed for visitor safety. We are assessing a relocation site. |
| 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. We recommend planning your visit during non-peak times such as mornings, and weekdays. |
| 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. Please check our social media events for upcoming programs.
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.
