Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Murray State Forest is located in southern Indiana, spanning parts of several counties including Orange, Crawford, and Dubois. It encompasses approximately 24,000 acres of primarily oak-hickory hardwood forest interspersed with rugged hills, ridges, and valleys characteristic of the Indiana Uplands region. The forest is interwoven with a network of streams and small creeks that support diverse aquatic life, including native fish species and freshwater mussels. Originally acquired in the 1930s during the era of forest conservation efforts, the area was designated as a state forest to provide a sustainable source of timber, protect watersheds, and offer public recreation. Today, Murray State Forest serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting, and camping. One of the forest’s notable features is the Hickory Ridge Trail, providing scenic views of forested hills and the Ohio River valley in the distance. The forest's remote sections provide habitat for wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and numerous bird species. Anglers enjoy fishing in the forest’s streams stocked with trout. Seasonal hunting is a key use of the forest, managed under regulated programs. The forest’s mix of steep hills and level bottomlands offers varied terrain, attracting a range of skill levels for visitors. Educational signage and rustic picnic areas are available near trailheads. The forest’s quiet atmosphere creates an excellent escape from urban life and offers opportunities for solitude and wildlife observation. Accessibility from nearby towns adds to its appeal for day trips and multi-day excursions.
