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Owen-Putnam State Forest
Overview
Owen-Putnam State Forest offers a rugged and serene getaway spread across more than 6,000 acres of hardwood forests in south-central Indiana. Unlike highly developed commercial resorts, this state forest provides a back-to-nature experience for RVers who enjoy primitive settings. Visitors often come here to find solitude among the deep ravines and sandstone bluffs that define this unique landscape. It serves as a quiet retreat for those looking to unplug and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Midwest.
Location & Surroundings
Situated near Spencer, IN, the forest is characterized by its dramatic terrain, featuring rocky ridges and dense woodlands. The area is largely undeveloped, providing a buffer from the noise of major highways. Travelers will find themselves surrounded by oak, hickory, and beech trees, creating a dense canopy that is especially stunning during the autumn foliage season. The surrounding Owen County area is known for its rolling hills and proximity to several other state parks and natural landmarks.
Amenities & Park Features
Camping here is strictly primitive and rustic, making it ideal for self-contained RVs. There are no electrical or water hookups at the sites, though vault toilets are provided. The forest features two main campgrounds, including a dedicated horse campground for those traveling with trailers and equines. Key features include:
- Vault toilets and seasonal potable water access.
- Small ponds designated for fishing and wildlife viewing.
- Extensive trails for hiking and equestrian use.
While the amenities are minimal, the park offers a raw and authentic camping environment for those who prefer dry camping.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, starting with the sandstone bluffs and caves found within the forest boundaries. Just a short drive away is McCormick’s Creek State Park, offering more structured recreation, and the famous Cataract Falls, one of Indiana’s most scenic waterfalls. The forest itself is a prime destination for hunting and foraging, while the miles of multi-use trails are perfect for hiking and horseback riding throughout the year.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is best suited for adventurous RVers who value privacy and a connection to nature over modern conveniences. Because of the primitive nature of the sites, it is a favorite for those with smaller rigs or those who are fully prepared for off-grid camping. It is also an exceptional choice for horse owners and nature photographers looking to capture the rugged, unpolished landscape of Indiana’s unspoiled wilderness areas.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Brandon smith
Best camping experience, never anyone here so we always have it to ourselves. The fungus always hits perfect out here!!
Michelle Hess
We went a couple days after a big storm hit so we knew there was going to be mass destruction and chaos. Well chaos not so much. But still, trees everywhere. But we didn't let that stop our little hike. What did stop it was the humid, 🥵 hot 🔥 weather that is expected after July storms. Plus I wanted to hike to the creek but couldn't really find the trail, so someone chose the trail that goes straight up and down in 110°+ heatwave. So yeah, we went home after about an hour...
Todd Erdody
Good find. Used the honor vault to pay for 2 nights. Cool little pond with mist in the morning. Nice playground for little people...okay I played on it too. Didn't like the maintenance mower dust/noise but accepted it must be done. Pit toilets were more like outhouse/latrine with clear roof pans...lots of bugs (it IS the woods). Pit toilet near pond was much better. Communal water tap was nice to fill my 5 gallon jug
Nathan Klaus
Had some DBs running their generators (plural) all night at the campground. Wish they'd make a tent only area out of earshot from the stupid RV crowd, couldn't even hear the birds singing it was so loud. Oh yeah, and none of them paid. IDNR, can you do a little better for us? Please?
Josiah Fisher
This place is my favorite local place to hike. There are 2 camp grounds. One on each side of the forest rattlesnake campground is harder to get to than fish creek campground. You can camp ride horses, hike, fish, gold prospect (must have permit to prospect) there is tons of nature to see and unending fire trails! You can receive a prospecting permit from the park office on fishcreek rd. It is free.
Stacey a
We travel here from Northern Illinois to gold prospect. The forest is beautiful! There are so many hidden waterfalls. I think I spent more time enjoying the beauty than I do panning. There are many trails for hiking tons of bird species for bird watchers. I highly reccomend loading up on bug spray, putting on your mud boots and heading out to Owen Putnam for a day or two! Camping is available on self pay system, rattlesnake campground is at the top of rattlesnake road. If you cant cross over the creek in your vehicle you can take Keene rd. in. It says dead end when you turn down, but they just havent removed that sign. It gets you up there.
Happy Me
Great hiking. Plenty of woods to explore. I grew up with the Owen forest in my backyard. Yet to tire from it. Early morning best as the birds begin their morning melodies.