The Hoosier National Forest Park is located in the picturesque hills of south central Indiana about 30 miles east of Jasper and 50 miles south of Bloomington. Homewood Suites Hilton at Bloomington is a convenient place to spend an overnight stay both to plan a visit to the park or to reorganize oneself on the way back home.

Several features about the area make it unique. First, it is the largest natural area in Indiana. Second, rather than being one contiguous area, the forest is scattered across several separate areas. Third, it has a multiple use designation; hunting is allowed in season. Fourth, it contains is the only real wilderness in Indiana, the Charles C 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 forest has more than 240 miles of maintained or managed trails. There are established campgrounds, however it is possible to camp anywhere in the forest provided a temporary restriction is not in force.

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 an area of rich diversity. Outdoor enthusiasts that need to travel to reach the park might want to consider a visit to Bloomington. If required Homewood Suites at Bloomington can cater to all your accommodation needs.

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