Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Camp Atterbury National Guard Training Site, located in south-central Indiana near Edinburgh, encompasses more than 30,000 acres of primarily forested and open terrain. Established in 1942 during World War II, the site has served as a training and mobilization center for the U.S. Army and the Indiana National Guard. The landscape features gently rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, grasslands, wetlands, and several small lakes and streams. While public recreational access is limited due to its primary role as a military training area, the installation occasionally permits public hunting and other outdoor activities during specific seasons and controlled conditions. Ecologically, the area supports diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and migratory waterfowl species, contributing to the local biodiversity. The site also contains historical remnants from its World War II origins, with some structures and monuments commemorating its military heritage. Visitors who gain access appreciate the relatively undisturbed natural environment within close proximity to urban centers like Indianapolis. Outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy opportunities for managed hunting, fishing, hiking on designated trails, and wildlife observation during authorized periods. Camp Atterbury also plays a significant role in regional conservation by preserving large contiguous habitats amidst Indiana’s farmland and development. Its blend of military history and natural resources makes it an important location for both defense readiness and outdoor recreation under regulated circumstances.
