Camping at Clark State Forest

Overview of Clark State Forest

Clark State Forest, located in Clark County, Indiana, is Indiana's oldest state forest. It consists of over 24,000 acres of land and offers a range of outdoor activities including camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting.

Camping Information

Availability and Types of Campsites:

Camping in Clark State Forest is primarily primitive, which means that the campsites typically offer limited amenities. Here are the different types of campsites:

• Primitive Campsites: These sites are for those who enjoy a rustic camping experience without modern conveniences. They may not have direct water or electricity hookups.
• Horseman's Campground: This area is specifically designed for equestrians who want to camp with their horses. It includes horse trails and facilities for the animals.

Reservations and Fees:

• Reservations: Campsites in Clark State Forest are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is always best to check if reservations are required or recommended before you go.
• Fees: There will typically be a nominal fee for camping, which helps maintain the facilities. Fees can vary, so contacting the forest office for the most current information is advisable.

Campground Rules and Regulations

• Campfires: Only light fires in designated areas and always extinguish them completely before leaving or going to sleep. Obey any fire bans or restrictions.
• Littering: Keep the forest clean by packing out all trash and disposing of waste properly.
• Wildlife: Store food securely and do not feed or approach wildlife.
• Quiet Hours: Respect other campers by observing quiet hours, typically from 10 PM to 6 AM.
• Stay Limit: There is usually a limit on the number of consecutive days you can camp at one site to prevent overuse and give others a chance to enjoy the forest.

Recreational Activities

• Hiking: There are several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels.
• Horseback Riding: Along with the horseman's campground, there are trails designed for horseback riding.
• Mountain Biking: Some trails are open to mountain bikers, offering a thrilling way to see the forest.
• Fishing: There are streams and lakes where you can fish for various species, depending on the season.
• Hunting: Hunting is permitted in specified areas during certain times of the year, following Indiana's hunting regulations.

Safety and Preparedness

• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack appropriate gear.
• Navigation: Bring maps or a GPS device, as some areas may have limited cell phone service.
• Wildlife Encounters: Educate yourself on how to handle possible encounters with local wildlife.
• Emergency Situations: Know basic first aid and the location of the nearest hospital or emergency medical facility.

Contact Information and Resources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about camping and activities at Clark State Forest, it's best to contact the forest office directly:

Clark State Forest Office:

• Address, phone number, and email can be found by visiting the Indiana Department of Natural Resources official website or contacting them directly.

Remember to check the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website for additional resources, maps, and any alerts or updates related to Clark State Forest.