Hoosier National Forest Park is positioned in the picturesque rolling hills of south-central Indiana, 30 miles to the east of Jasper and 50 miles to the south of Bloomington. Homewood Suites Hilton at Bloomington is conveniently placed to serve as an overnight stay either en-route to the forest or on the return home.

A number of highlights make the area unique. Firstly, it is the biggest natural area in the state of Indiana. Secondly, rather than being contiguous, the area is spread across a number of separated patches. Thirdly, hunting is permitted in season. Finally, the reserve contains the best wilderness in Indiana, that being the Charles Deam Wilderness.

It offers 200,000 acres of stunning natural beauty in the form of rolling hills, country trails, dramatic limestone bluffs, discussed gypsum and coal mines, ridges, hollows, waterfalls, creeks, lakes, meadows, knobs, and unique ecosystems. Bucolic rural communities lie on the fringes of the forest. Off-road vehicles are prohibited.

The area offers a treasure of exciting activities regardless of age. Trail bike riding, horse riding, hiking, jogging kayaking, canoeing and swimming are all on offer. Bird spotters and nature watchers will not be disappointed. Fishing, of course, is also a perennial favorite.

The area offers visitors about trails running about 240 miles. They take users past many natural wonders including rivers, lakes and caves. Many of the caves have stunning karst formations.

The Charles C Deam Wilderness is perfect for those that want to get away, far away. It is the best wilderness to be found in Indiana. It extends for 13,000 contiguous acres on the south bank of the eastern half of Lake Monroe, southeast of Bloomington. SR 446 forms its western boundary.

Visitors to the area should be aware that mosquitoes and various other insects are common in summer. Poisonous snakes live throughout the forest including timber rattlers (quite rare), copperheads and cottonmouths. Natural water sources cannot be relied upon for purity; visitors should carry a filter or other solutions. Finally, Perry County is the only county in Indiana to have an infestation of the Lyme-disease carrying Lone Star tick.

The Hoosier National Forest Park is rich in natural ecological diversity. Outdoor enthusiasts are bound to enjoy a visit to any part of this vast resource. If accommodation is required when traveling to or from the park, Hilton Homewood Suites Bloomington can meet those requirements with a high level of service.

Planning a trip the the fabulous Hoosier National Forest? Get the low down now in our guide to the best hotels In Bloomington Indiana .