BEDFORD — The Hoosier National Forest has unveiled a busy lineup of community events, educational hikes, and seasonal festivities for October 2026, alongside key seasonal transition details for local recreation areas and trail closures.
October Autumn Events
Local residents and visitors can participate in several family-friendly programs hosted by forest staff throughout the month:
- Morning with the Mules (Saturday, Oct. 3 | 10–11:30 a.m. EDT): Meet the Hoosier National Forest’s unique mule team—the only official pack stock program on a National Forest east of the Mississippi River. Held at the Forest Education Center inside the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area, attendees will learn how the animals help maintain forest trails and will have a chance to feed them carrots. Admission is free, though an $8 per vehicle day-use fee applies.
- Fall Hike for Your Health (Saturday, Oct. 10 | 1–3 p.m. EDT): A guided 4-mile moderate hike along Trail 19 of the Hickory Ridge Trail System. Hikers should meet at the eastern trailhead dressed for the weather with sturdy footwear, water, and snacks, while following Leave No Trace principles. Note that no restroom facilities are available at this site.
- Fall Party at Hardin Ridge (Saturday, Oct. 17 | 3–5 p.m. EDT): Featuring costume judging, pumpkin carving, crafts, games, a bat cave, Smokey Bear, and a live bird demonstration from the Raptor’s Rise Rehabilitation Center. Held at Hardin Ridge Recreation Area Shelter #1 near the boat ramp. Free program with an $8 per-vehicle day-use fee.
- Open House at Historic Rickenbaugh (Saturday, Oct. 31 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. CDT): A self-guided tour of the historic stone house built in 1874. Visitors are invited to wear costumes and collect treats. Free program with an $8 per vehicle day-use fee.
Community Outreach
Forest staff will also participate in local community events throughout the region:
- Honey Harvest Festival (Oct. 3 | 8 a.m.–12 p.m.): Staff will host informative booths on pollinators and native plants in Bedford.
- Indiana Native Plant Society Annual Conference (Oct. 17): Featuring an exhibit on prescribed burns and barrens restoration alongside keynote speaker Dr. Doug Tallamy.
Winter Recreation Facilities & Fee Schedule
Starting October 25 at 12:00 p.m., seasonal winter operations will take effect across the forest:
- Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area: Day-use fees will be waived from Oct. 26 through early April. The Northface camping loop, trails, and boat ramps will remain open year-round, while the Southslope loop remains open until Nov. 30 at noon. First-come, first-served camping is $10/day for non-electric sites ($5 with Senior Pass) and $15/day for electric sites ($10 with Senior Pass), payable at self-service stations.
- Tipsaw Lake & Hardin Ridge: Camping facilities close for the season on Oct. 25 at noon until early April 2027. Boat ramps and trails remain open year-round with no day-use fee from Oct. 26 through early April.
Active Temporary Closures
Visitors should plan ahead for several active site and trail restrictions:
- Seasonal Cave Closure: All caves across the national forest are closed through May 14 to protect endangered bat species.
- Trail & Area Closures: Peninsula Trail (Charles C. Deam Wilderness), Campsites 12 and 21 (Charles C. Deam Wilderness), a bridge on Tipsaw Trail, and sections of Hickory Ridge Trail 16 and Rainbow Lakes Recreation Area.
- Road Work: A section of Tower Ridge Road is closed; drivers should use Hunter Creek Road as an alternative route.
Office Hours & Contact Information
The Bedford and Tell City district offices are open for in-person service on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time (closed on federal holidays).
Visitors can stop in to purchase maps, trail use permits, and recreation passes. Those seeking firewood permits are encouraged to call ahead to schedule an appointment to ensure staff availability and document preparation.
