Greene-Sullivan State Forest
Greene-Sullivan State Forest
In the mid-1930s several coal companies donated 4,139 acres of strip-mined land to the Indiana Department of Conservation, which was later expanded into the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. This acreage became known as Greene-Sullivan State Forest, which now has 7,900 acres of land and is one of the most popular recreational spots in the area. Greene-Sullivan State Forest is located on County Road 200 South.
An estimated 120,000 people visit the forest each year. Of that number, between 10,000 and 15,000 are campers. Today Greene-Sullivan State Forest is as much a recreation facility as it is a timber producer. The forest has about 100 campsites. The campsite fee rental, which is $5 per night, is paid at the office. Picnic areas, complete with tables, grills, and restroom facilities, are available. The campsites are usually full over the holiday weekends.
The 7,900 acres are divided into two main areas. The forest, which covers 6,700 acres and straddles the Greene-Sullivan County line, has more than 120 lakes. In addition, another 1,200 acres, known as the Dugger Unit, was acquired by the Indiana Division of Forestry from Peabody Coal Company in 1995 and is now a part of the Greene-Sullivan State Forest.
Wildlife is abundant, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels. Hunting is allowed in Greene-Sullivan State Forest during hunting seasons. Conservation officers do enforce Indiana’s strict hunting laws. Most of the lakes are stocked with large mouth bass, bluegill, and red ear sunfish. Two of the lakes, Reservoir 26 and Wampler, are stocked with channel catfish.
Wampler, Airline, and Reservoir 26 are accessible to the handicapped and have railed piers for fishing. Equestrians may bring their horses to Ladder Lake for overnight camping. Facilities are available for 20 horses. In addition, bridle and hiking trails are provided.
Gravel boat ramps are available at most of the lakes to enable boaters easy access. No boats are rented at the forest, but several boat rental establishments may be found at nearby locations.
The forest is a prime example of land set up under Indiana’s multiple-use concept, which provides something for everyone. This project has been a successful one based upon the popularity with the public.
For a great time be sure to check out Greene Sullivan State Forest.
For More Information Check Out http://www.in.gov/dnr/forestry/index.html?http://www.in.gov/dnr
/forestry/stateforests/grnsull.htm&2
This information was used with permission from the Linton-Stockton School Corporation.
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