GREENE-SULLIVAN STATE FOREST
For a day of fishing, camping, hunting or just rest and relaxation, Greene-Sullivan State Forest is one of themost beautiful and serene places to visit. Greene-Sullivan was founded in 1936 when various coalcompanies donated more than 3,000 acres of property to the Department of Natural Resources, Divisionof Forestry. But that was just the beginning. Now the forest boasts almost 8,000 acres of beautifulwoodland and rolling hills dotted with more than 120 lakes, making it one of the most unique areas inIndiana.
If you're not fishing or camping, there's still something for you at Greene-Sullivan State Forest. Otherfavorite activities include hunting, picnicking, mushroom hunting, horseback riding, photography andwildlife viewing.
The history of Greene-Sullivan State Forest in Indiana dates back to the early 20th century. The forest was established in 1920 when the State of Indiana purchased approximately 2,865 acres of land in Greene and Sullivan counties. The acquisition of the forestland was done as a part of a broader effort to restore and improve the state's natural resources.
Originally known as Black Ankle State Forest, it was named after the local Black Ankle Creek. The forest was primarily managed for timber production, with a focus on reforestation and sustainable forestry practices. The state forest provided a steady supply of timber for the region's growing populations and industries.
Over the years, the forest area expanded with additional land acquisitions, and today, Greene-Sullivan State Forest encompasses around 9,000 acres. It is primarily composed of mixed hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory, along with small patches of pine plantations.
Apart from timber production, Greene-Sullivan State Forest has also been utilized for recreational purposes. The forest offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, bird watching, hunting, and fishing. It has a network of trails, picnic areas, and access points to streams and lakes, which make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The forest also serves as an important wildlife habitat, providing shelter and food for various species, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, squirrels, and numerous songbirds. It is managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to balance timber production, wildlife management, and recreational opportunities.
Greene-Sullivan State Forest has played a vital role in the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources in Indiana. It continues to serve as a valuable public land where people can enjoy nature and connect with the history and beauty of the area.
GeneralLand, acres8,000
Day-UseFishingyes
Huntingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Picnickingyes
Picnic Shelters, #4
Bridle Trailsyes
BoatingBoating Limits-1
Launch Ramps, #60
CampingPrimitive, #100
Horsemen Campsites, #20
Primitive(class C) camping is available for a fee; campsites are available on a first come, first serve basis.Self check-in stations are located in each campground or at the forest office. Sites have pit toilets andseasonal drinking water available. There is a picnic table and grill located on each of the 100 familycampsites of Narrow Lake, Wampler Lake and Reservoir #26. An additional 20 sites for horse campersonly are available in the Horseman's Campground near Ladder Lake. A dumping station is also available.Reservoir #26 has a wheelchair accessible campsite, pit toilets and playground.
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With more than 120 lakes scattered throughout Greene-Sullivan State Forest's 9,000 acres, you'll never fall short of fishing opportunities! In fact, the forest offers some of the finest fishing in the state.
Most of the lakes are stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill and redear sunfish. The state record bluegill, weighing 3 lbs. 4 ozs. was taken from Reservoir #26 in 1972. In some of the lakes you can find channel catfish, bullheads, crappie and warmouth. Airline Lake is also stocked annually with rainbow trout as part of a statewide put-and -take trout program.
For those who enjoy the serenity of fishing, several of the lakes are "walk-in only" to provide a more secluded fishing experience. Approximately 60 of the lakes have easy access from county roads and have dirt or gravel launching ramps; boating limited to electric trolling motors. Muskellunge were stocked in Bass Lake in the fall of 1997. These fish should reach a harvestable size limit of 36" by the year 2000.
Whitetail deer, turkey, squirrel, fox, and raccoon. A valid hunting license is required. Hikers and horseback riders are advised to wear hunter orange or other bright clothing while on trails during hunting season.