Hoosier National Forest is comprised of 202,814 acres of land that is located in parts of nine counties in south-central Indiana near the major city of Bloomington southwest of Indianapolis. Some of the other cities and towns close-by include Evansville, Bedford, and Tell City. The forest can be accessed using several roads including US 50, US 150, IN 37, IN 46, and IN 62. The forest is managed by the U.S. Forest Service.Â
Several features make Hoosier National Forest a unique place for visitors to visit. First, the forest is home to historic attractions including Lick Creek Settlement which is the site of a town that was created in 1820 by freed slaves. The town was also a highly probable route on the Underground Railroad.Â
Other attractions include Lake Monroe which is Indiana's largest lake, encompassing a total area of about 10,000 acres and which covers the forest's northwest section. Sundance Lake which is a 5.3-acre lake is also located in the forest. Another attraction in the forest is an 88-acre area covered with virgin old-growth Oak and Walnut trees called the Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest.
Besides these attractions, Hoosier National Forest is also a great place to enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities like hunting, camping, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, berry picking, mushroom picking, and rock collecting. Amenities in the park to facilitate these activities include five campgrounds, equestrian camps, group camp, scenic drives, picnic sites, trails (239 miles), and a lookout tower.
Dogs are undeniably allowed into the forest although some rules apply that are designed to keep the habitat, visitors and the forest management satisfied. For instance, as a dog owner, you must keep your dog leashed at all times and ensure that your dog is well-behaved. You're also expected to clean up after your dog and maintain general cleanliness in the forest.