Indianapolis, Indiana – Indiana residents will have a unique opportunity to explore the state’s diverse forestlands later this month, as the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announces open houses at multiple state forests from October 28 through 30. These events aim to educate the public on outdoor recreation options and provide insight into the careful work of professional foresters who manage Indiana’s forests for long-term health and sustainability.
During the open houses, Hoosiers can visit forest offices, interact with staff, and ask questions about how the properties are maintained. Guided hikes will also be offered at 5 p.m. each day, allowing attendees to experience the natural beauty of the forests firsthand. Those wishing to join the hikes should meet at the respective forest office prior to the scheduled time.
“These open houses provide Hoosiers with a chance to receive first-hand information about how state forests provide diverse wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities,” said State Forester John Seifert. “They also allow us to receive valuable feedback from our neighbors and users about state forest management – I encourage everyone to participate.”
The open houses will cover forests across the state, each offering a unique perspective on Indiana’s natural resources. On October 28, Clark State Forest will welcome visitors from 4 to 7 p.m. at its property office located a mile north of Henryville on U.S. 31. For more information, interested attendees can call 812-294-4306.
On the same day, Greene-Sullivan State Forest will host an open house at its property office on State Road 159, approximately 1.5 miles south of Dugger, from 4 to 7 p.m. Those looking to attend may contact 812-648-2810. Salamonie River and Frances Slocum State Forests will also open their doors simultaneously from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Salamonie River State Forest office off State Road 524, roughly six miles east of Wabash. More details are available at 260-782-0430.
October 29 will see Harrison-Crawford State Forest hosting its event from 4 to 7 p.m. at the property office off State Road 462, just past the gatehouse for O’Bannon Woods State Park. Attendees can call 812-738-7694 for additional information. Jackson-Washington and Selmier State Forests will simultaneously welcome visitors at the Jackson-Washington State Forest office, 2.5 miles east of Brownstown, just east of the Jackson County Fairgrounds on State Road 250, with questions directed to 812-358-2160. Ferdinand-Pike State Forest will also host an open house that day from 4 to 7 p.m. at its property office off State Road 264, about four miles northeast of Ferdinand. Interested visitors can call 812-827-2857.
The final day of events, October 30, will feature Martin State Forest, which will open its property office off U.S. 50, approximately four miles northeast of Shoals, from 4 to 7 p.m. Inquiries can be made at 812-247-3491. Morgan-Monroe, Ravinia, Yellowwood, and Mountain Tea State Forests will collectively welcome attendees at the Morgan-Monroe State Forest office, six miles south of Martinsville on State Road 37. For more information, visitors may contact 765-792-4654. Finally, Owen-Putnam State Forest will host its open house from 4 to 7 p.m. at the property office located five miles west of Spencer and less than a mile north of State Road 46. Call 812-829-2462 for additional guidance.
In addition to these scheduled events, property staff are often available during normal business hours, which run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Those unable to attend in person can also submit written questions or comments through the DNR’s online portal at https://in.accessgov.com/dnr/Forms/Page/forestry/forestry-comment/0, ensuring that all voices have an opportunity to contribute to forest management discussions.
The DNR Division of Forestry emphasizes the importance of public engagement in promoting good stewardship of Indiana’s public and private forest lands. Through these efforts, the division works to safeguard natural, recreational, and cultural resources, producing benefits that extend beyond today and into the future. By participating in the open houses, residents not only learn about recreation and wildlife management but also play a part in shaping how the state’s forests are cared for in the years to come.
For many, these events provide a rare chance to explore Indiana’s forestlands with guidance from professionals who understand the delicate balance between recreation and conservation. Visitors can discover how forests serve as vital wildlife habitats, offer a range of recreational activities, and contribute to the environmental health of the state.
“Whether it’s hiking, wildlife observation, or simply learning more about forest management, there’s something for everyone at our open houses,” Seifert added. “We encourage all Hoosiers to come out, ask questions, and share their perspectives. Together, we can ensure Indiana’s forests remain healthy and accessible for generations to come.”
As fall paints Indiana’s landscapes in rich hues of orange and gold, the state’s forests invite the public to step inside and learn, explore, and engage in a tradition of conservation that stretches back decades. These open houses promise not just a glimpse into forest management, but a chance for residents to become active participants in preserving the state’s natural heritage.
