Hoosier National Forest, in the hills of south central Indiana, provides a wide mix of opportunities and resources for people to enjoy. Rolling hills, back-country trails, and rural crossroad communities make this small but beautiful 204,000 acre Forest a local treasure. Forest managers work with the public to develop
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This Forest Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 1111111111 · SM.FS.R9HOFwebsite@usda.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Hoosier National Forest — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This Forest Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Hoosier National Forest?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Hoosier National Forest. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Hoosier National Forest?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Springs Valley Trail 2, Springs Valley Trail 1, Youngs Creek. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Hoosier National Forest. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Sarah Ewart / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Patoka Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
NPS Photo/Paula Alexander National Park Service Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.