There Are Endless Things To Do In Indiana's Salamonie River State Forest
By Tori Jane|Published April 26, 2022
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Tori Jane
Author
Tori Jane is a storm chaser, writer, photographer, and the village idiot - in that order. When she's not out and about dancing with the meanest storms on planet Earth for funsies she can be found wandering, shooting landscapes, writing, editing photos, and otherwise up to no good. Legend has it that she can also be occasionally spotted typing up short bios in the third person, but those rumors are unsubstantiated.
Not-so-hidden in northern Indiana is one of just two state forests in the region; its name is derived from a Native American word (“O-sah-mo-nee”) that means “yellow paint.” It’s the stunning Salamonie River State Forest, a 950-acre slice of paradise right here in our own backyards. When it comes to things to do in Indiana, few forests have quite as many activities jam-packed into them, making Salamonie River State Forest a sought-after destination for appreciating the great outdoors. Come see why this particular forest is so special!
It's perfect for camping, fishing, hiking, and just about any outdoor recreational activity you can think of. Its original purpose certainly seems to lend even more to its overall magic.
This forest was "created" during the 1930s as a demonstration riverside forest with the idea of reclaiming badly eroded land.
The goal: re-establish this place as the ecosystem it once was to help it reach its fullest potential. Needless to say, the project was a huge success, with hundreds of acres of forest restored to its original glory and lots of fun stuff, like recreation areas and a quarry, added along the way.
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Today, Salamonie River State Forest is a reminder of just how beautiful Indiana's wildlands can be.
There are numerous - almost endless - things to do out here, from top-notch camping and fishing to some of the best, most enchanting hiking trails in Indiana.
Rent out a shelter provided by the park, or book one of 21 primitive campsites (or 15 horseman's campsites). Wander to Hominy Ridge Lake and fish for bluegill, largemouth bass, catfish, and more. Boating on the lake is also encouraged, though boat motors are limited to electric trolling motors only, please.
And, man, don't even get us GOING about the hiking trails.
The three most beloved trails at Salamonie River State Forest include the 2.6-mile, moderately difficult Salamonie River State Forest Park Loop, the easygoing 0.7-mile 3 Falls Trail, or the nine-mile-long (but still pretty easy) Lakeview and Boundary Trails at Salamonie Reservoir.
The forest is open year-round, and each season brings with it a special magic, so we definitely recommend returning about four times a year to maximize the seasonal experience.
For more information about the Salamonie River State Forest in Indiana, be sure to check out the official Department of Natural Resources website. Where are your favorite places in Indiana? Tell us about them in the comments.
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