BEDFORD / TELL CITY — The Hoosier National Forest has released its updated recreation schedule, detailing winter facility hours, seasonal closures, and operating updates across its properties effective late October.
Winter Facility Information and Operating Hours
As the autumn season progresses, camping and facility schedules are shifting across major recreation areas:
- Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area:
- The Northface camping loop, trails, and boat ramps remain open year-round.
- The Southslope camping loop is open until November 30 at noon.
- Self-service pay stations, vault toilets, and potable water are available at each loop. All campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Fee Schedule: Day-use fees are waived from October 26 through early April ($0). Non-electric campsites are $10 per day ($5 with an America the Beautiful Senior Pass), and electric campsites are $15 per day ($10 with the Senior Pass).
- Tipsaw Lake and Hardin Ridge Recreation Areas:
- Closed for camping effective October 25 at noon through early April 2027.
- Boat ramps and trails remain open year-round, and day-use fees are waived from October 26 through early April.
Temporary Area and Trail Closures
Visitors are advised of several temporary closures currently in effect across the national forest:
- Blackwell Campground: Closed for maintenance starting October 28.
- Cave Closures: All caves across the national forest are closed from August 16 through May 14 to protect endangered bat populations.
- Charles C. Deam Wilderness: Campsites 12 and 21, as well as the Peninsula Trail, are temporarily closed.
- Trails and Roads: Sections of Hickory Ridge Trail 16, Rainbow Lakes Recreation Area, and a bridge on Tipsaw Trail are closed. Additionally, a section of Tower Ridge Road is closed; motorists are advised to use Hunter Creek Road as an alternative route.
Office Hours and Visitor Services
The Hoosier National Forest Bedford and Tell City offices are open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time. Offices are closed on federal holidays.
Visitor Information staff are available during office hours to answer questions, sell maps, recreation passes, and Trail Use Permits, as well as operate Nature Store outlets.
Visitors seeking a firewood permit are encouraged to call ahead to schedule an appointment and verify required documentation before visiting.
