Indiana Photo of the Day - Jackson State Forest - Brownstown, Indiana

Jackson State Forest - Brownstown, Indiana

Exploring Indiana's Historic Sites,
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South Central Edition

Jackson State Forest

Jackson State Forest consists of 15,721 acres of heavily forested, very hilly terrain in the Knobs area of southeastern Indiana. The area abounds in beauty and boasts activities for all kinds of interests. Hikers, photographers, campers, equestrians, and the handicapped can all experience a quality outdoor adventure at Jackson Washington State Forest. This Indiana State Forest is sort of spread out, with facilities in multiple locations.

Hiking

Hiking in Jackson State Forest will satisfy the casual day hiker, or the more serious backpacker. The hiking trails are varied and beautiful. There are seven trails totaling 9.5 miles, ranging from very rugged almost mountain type hiking to wheelchair accessible jaunts through the forest. Jackson-Washington is one of Indiana’s best State Forests.

Fishing

Jackson State Forest has five fishing lakes that include Knob Lake, which has a boat ramp and is seven acres in size. There is a handicap accessible fishing site and picnic area on this lake. Boats with electric motors are allowed on Knob Lake. Spurgeon Hollow Lake consists of twelve acres, has a boat ramp, and boats with electric motors are permitted. Other lakes include:

Potter Lake covers ten acres and is accessible only to hikers

Plattsburg Pond comprises eight acres and is also accessible only to hikers

One acre Cypress Pond is located at the entrance of the park,

Bridle Trails

There are three bridal trails totaling five miles in length with additional horse trails at nearby Skyline Drive.

Archery

Archers will find a 20-target archery range to hone their skills for hunting.

Camping

Jackson State Forest has a peaceful campground to pitch your tent with sixty primitive sites near Knob Lake. Campsite # 11 is a wheelchair accessible site. A picnic table and grill is available on each site. Pit toilets are available. There are no showers in the campground Youth tent camping area is also available. Backcountry camping is available on some trails and on nearby Knobstone Trail.

Picnicking

Jackson-Washington is a picnic paradise. You will find six shelter houses with fireplaces and horseshoe pits and numerous picnic tables scattered around the grounds. The use of all shelters is on a first come, first served basis. A playground for children is located adjacent to the picnic area.

Other Activities

There are a host of other activities for the adventurous. A bird watching area that has numerous feeders is located near the office. Ducks and geese swim on the several lakes. Sports facilities include a volleyball and basketball court and two playgrounds for the children.

Driving

If you are more into driving than hiking, you can drive around Jackson State Forest, and then check out some of the other places of interest. Nearby Skyline Drive offers a unique experience for Hoosiers. Skyline Drive climbs up the towering knobs and offers a commanding view of the surrounding countryside. It is a meandering road with five overlooks, several picnic spots, shelters, and additional day hiking. There are numerous county roads to cruise, including the scenic drive over to nearby Starve Hollow Lake. You can also visit nearby Vallonia Nursery, a state facility with many different types of trees in cultivation.

Getting there is easy. Jackson-Washington is located on State Road 250 about 2 ½ miles south of Brownstown, IN. Brownstown is on US 50 between Seymour and Bedford, Indiana

Additional Information available at:

Jackson-Washington State Forest

1278 East State Road 250

Brownstown, IN 47220

812-358-2160

Indiana State Forests 

Camping, hiking, fishing, target shooting and hunting - Jackson Washington State Forest has it all. The steep knobs create a challenging hiking experience that is almost mountain-like in scope. There is also a handicapped access trail that is wheelchair ready. You will also find excellent fishing in any of several lakes. Knob Lake has one handicapped site suitable for a wheelchair access. The campground is wooded and nice and there are designated hunting areas where you just might find that eight-point buck.

Spend a day, or spend a week, you are sure to enjoy your visit.

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