Ferdinand, IN 47532
812-827-2857
FAX: 812-367-2846
FerdinandSF@dnr.IN.gov
on.IN.gov/ferdinandsf
Ferdinand State Forest advisories
- BLUE-GREEN ALGAE ADVISORY ALERT for Ferdinand Lake Beach: Swimming and boating permitted. Avoid contact with algae. Avoid swallowing water while swimming. Take a bath or shower with warm soapy water after coming in contact with lake water. Do not use lake water for cooking or bathing. Do not allow your pets to swim or drink lake water where algae are present. More information.
- Description
In 1933, a local conservation club raised funds to buy 900 acres to build a lake and establish an area to hunt and fish. They offered management of the project to the Indiana Department of Conservation the following year, and this marked the establishment of Ferdinand State Forest.
Established in 1934 as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp, CCC workers built roads, service buildings, and one of the most beautiful forest lakes in the state. Ferdinand State Forest is well known for its excellent deer and squirrel hunting. The area surrounding Ferdinand is rich in German heritage, including St. Meinrad Archabbey, the Monastary Immaculate Conception and many other local landmarks and seasonal community festivals.
Beginning in mid-May running through October, Ferdinand State Forest operates an entrance gate house. During times of gate operation, there is an entrance fee required to gain access to the state forest's primary recreation area (i.e., campground, beach, shelters, etc.). The fee is $7/vehicle for in-state plates and $9/vehicle for out-of-state plates. Indiana DNR annual entrance passes are accepted and sold at the property.
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