Indian Trail State Forest
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Indian Trail State Forest is a 12,000-acre forest located in the state of Wisconsin.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The forest is known for its beautiful natural scenery, diverse wildlife, and recreational opportunities. There are several good reasons to visit Indian Trail State Forest, including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife watching. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, wolves, and many species of birds.
Some specific points of interest in Indian Trail State Forest include the Black River, which is popular for fishing and canoeing, and the Ice Age Trail, which runs through the forest and is a popular hiking trail. There are also several campgrounds and picnic areas in the forest that offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
Interesting facts about Indian Trail State Forest include that it is one of the largest state forests in Wisconsin, and that it was established in 1933 as part of the Civilian Conservation Corps program during the Great Depression. The forest is also home to the largest white pine and red pine plantations in Wisconsin, which were planted in the 1930s as part of reforestation efforts.
The best time of year to visit Indian Trail State Forest depends on the activities you want to do. Summer is a popular time for camping, fishing, and hiking, while fall offers beautiful fall foliage and is a great time for hunting. Winter is a good time for snowshoeing and skiing. Overall, Indian Trail State Forest is a beautiful destination that offers a great way to enjoy Wisconsin's natural beauty.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References