Hoosier National Forest Travel Information
Hoosier National Forest protects more than 200,000 acres of land in
south central Indiana. The forest is bounded by the Ohio River to the
south. Hickory, oak, walnut and hemlock trees densely cover the hills,
ridges and valleys of the forest. The forest has more than 200
miles of multi-use trails open for horseback riding, hiking and
mountain biking. Primitive, basic, electric and equestrian camps are
available throughout the forest. Trails lead to box canyons, rock
shelters, caves and seasonal waterfalls at Hemlock Cliffs, and at
Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest, a short trail goes through an 88-acre
old-growth forest. Hunting is allowed in some areas. Four stocked
lakes along Highway 37 in the southern part of the forest offer
tranquil fishing and boating opportunities. The Ohio River is popular
boating and for catfish, bass and crappie fishing. During the
fall and spring, scenic drives showcase the forest’s colors. Several
areas, like Buzzard Roost along the Ohio River, are designated as
wildlife viewing sites and offer the best opportunities to see birds,
deer and other forest animals. Southern sections of the forest and
views of the Ohio River valley can be seen along the Ohio River Scenic
Byway. This route continues east and west following the river toward
Ohio and Illinois and passing through historic river towns and
farmland. Two big lakes border the forest, 10,750-acre Lake
Monroe, in the northern section of the forest and 8,800-acre Patoka
Lake in the central section. Marinas at both lakes offer houseboat and
other recreational boat rentals. Resorts and state recreational areas
provide lodging and access to the lakes. Other popular lake activities
include sailboating, waterskiing, fishing and birding. Other
nearby natural attractions include several caves, Bluesprings Caverns,
south of Bedford and U.S. National Landmark caves, Marengo Cave in
Marengo, and Wyandotte Caves near Carefree. Skiing is available at Ski
World Ski Area east of Bloomington and Ski Paoli Peaks Ski Area in
Paoli. Towns in the forest area offer antiques, golf courses and
wineries. Just north of Patoka Lake, renovations to the French Lick
Springs Resort and Casino and West Baden Springs Hotel, which is
listed on the National Register of Historic Places, are bringing new
life to this historic resort area. At the Indiana Railway Museum in
French Lick visitors can take train rides through the
forest. Hoosier National Forest is 51 miles south of
Indianapolis. It is accessible via Interstate Highway 64, U.S.
Highways 50 and 150 and State Highway 37. National chain hotels can
be found in Bloomington, Columbus and Bedford. Other lodging options
in the area include bed and breakfasts, resorts and camping.
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