OWEN-PUTNAM STATE FOREST
Hike through some of the best hardwood forests in the country. Enjoy deer, squirrel and turkey hunting.Fish in one of the many ponds. Horseback ride through some of the beautiful hills of south central Indiana,including a view of a 50-foot sandstone bluff. This property consists of many scattered holdings in anorth-south orientation and because of this scattered nature, care should be exercised to avoid trespassingon private land.Developed areas include the Forest Office, Fish Creek Campground, Horseman's Campground andRattlesnake Campground.
Owen-Putnam State Forest is a state forest located in the U.S. state of Indiana. It is named after the two counties it spans: Owen and Putnam. The history of this state forest is relatively recent, dating back to the 20th century.
In the early 20th century, much of the land which now comprises Owen-Putnam State Forest was heavily logged, resulting in significant deforestation. Recognizing the need to restore the lands and protect them for future generations, the state of Indiana began acquiring these lands in the late 1920s and early 1930s.
The acquisition process was facilitated by the Clarke-Dilbeck Act of 1929, which allowed the state of Indiana to acquire land for reforestation purposes. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) was responsible for actively managing these lands.
After the land was acquired, reforestation efforts began in 1930. Over 7 million trees were planted in the span of a few years, turning the deforested lands into a vibrant and diverse forest cover. The reforestation efforts were aided by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a public work relief program established during the Great Depression.
The CCC constructed infrastructure within the forest, including trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds. Many of these CCC-built facilities are still in use today, showcasing the historical significance of the forest.
Throughout the years, Owen-Putnam State Forest has remained under the management of the IDNR, which has continued to protect and conserve the natural resources found within the forest. The forest offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing.
Owen-Putnam State Forest is an important ecological and recreational asset for the state of Indiana, providing a beautiful natural space for visitors to enjoy and serving as a testament to the state's commitment to reforestation and conservation efforts.
Day-UseHuntingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Mountain Bike Trails, miles6
Bridle Trailsyes
CampingPrimitive, #24
Horsemen Campsites, #9
Fish Creek Campground: 14 sites, available water; Horseman's Campground: 9 large sites, water trough;and Rattlesnake Campground: 10 sites (opened April 15th to December 1st for camping). Campgroundsare primitive (Class C) and are provided with vault toilets, picnic tables, grills and parking spurs.Rattlesnake and Horseman's campgrounds have no drinking water, but this can be obtained at the ForestOffice or Fish Creek Campground. Campsites are available on a first come, first serve basis; please self-register at booths located in eachcampground.