SELMIER STATE FOREST
Selmier State Forest was donated to the state of Indiana by Mrs. Frank Selmier on behalf of her husband.Frank Selmier had a strong interest in the outdoors. He planted several acres on this property to pine,black locust, black walnut, sycamore and tuliptree from 1921 to 1934. Most of the property was placedin Indiana's Classified Forest Program between 1927 and 1931.
There are three known building sites on the property: A boy scout cabin; the Zoar school, which wasconverted to a church; and an old home site off Walnut Trail.
Selmier State Forest, located in North Central Indiana, has a rich history that dates back several decades. Here is an overview of its history:
1. Acquisition: Selmier State Forest was originally acquired by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in 1947. The forest was named after Frederic Selmier, a prominent local businessman and philanthropist from Rush County, Indiana.
2. Historical Use: Before its acquisition by the DNR, the land that currently comprises Selmier State Forest was once part of a privately owned estate. The estate was primarily used for agricultural purposes, including farming and grazing.
3. Reforestation Efforts: Recognizing the need to restore or preserve forests, the DNR embarked on reforestation efforts in the area. The goal was to reintroduce and promote native tree species in the region. This led to the establishment of Selmier State Forest as a designated state forest.
4. Tree Planting and Growth: Over the years, extensive tree planting activities took place within the forest, focusing on species such as oak, hickory, and tulip poplar. These efforts aimed to reclaim the land and establish a sustainable forest ecosystem.
5. Management and Recreation: The DNR manages Selmier State Forest with the aim of preserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable forestry practices, and providing recreational opportunities for the public. The forest offers activities like hiking, bird-watching, fishing, and hunting, subject to specific regulations and seasons.
6. Conservation Efforts: In recent years, Selmier State Forest has increasingly served as a demonstration area for forest management practices that balance conservation and public use. This includes prescribed burns, timber harvesting techniques, and wildlife habitat management.
7. Educational Programs: The forest also serves as an educational resource, offering various programs for school groups, nature enthusiasts, and individuals interested in learning about forest ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation practices.
Selmier State Forest is a well-established forested area managed by the Indiana DNR, contributing towards the conservation of natural resources, recreational opportunities, and environmental education for the local community and visitors alike.
GeneralLand, acres355
Day-UseFishingyes
Huntingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Selmier State Forest in Indiana does not offer any official camping sites. The forest is primarily used for hiking, hunting and fishing activities.
However, there are several campgrounds located near Selmier State Forest:
1. Little Farm on the River RV Park Camping Resort: Located about 30 miles east of Selmier state forest in Rising Sun, this campground offers full hook-up RV Sites as well as tent campsites along with amenities like swimming pool and playgrounds.
2. Clifty Falls State Park: About a one-hour drive southeast from the park lies Clifty Falls where you can find both electric hookup sites for your camper or simple non-electric spots perfect for tents.
3. Versailles State Park Campground: This site has over 200 electrical campsites available to book year-round plus it's only an hour away by car going northeast direction.
4. Charlestown State Park: It's approximately an hour south but provides options such as primitive (no electricity) or modern (electricity included) camping facilities that include restrooms/showers nearby each lot area.
5. Hardy Lake: Just under half:an-hour southwest from Selmer also allows overnight stays at their Class A & C campgrounds which includes picnic tables/fire rings/electricity/restroom/shower access per spot reserved.