Gov. Braun announces Indiana will expand state park-managed land in northern Indiana

Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM

Governor Mike Braun and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced that more than 1,400 additional acres of forestland in northern Indiana will soon be part of Indiana State Parks, with Salamonie River and Frances Slocum state forests transitioning in management from the DNR Division of Forestry.

“Our state parks are some of Indiana’s most cherished places, where families make memories, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with the natural beauty of our state,” said Gov. Braun. “Expanding Indiana State Parks to include Salamonie River and Frances Slocum state forests will help more Hoosiers and visitors experience these special places while preserving them for future generations.”

Effective July 1, Salamonie River State Forest will be managed as part of Salamonie Lake, and Frances Slocum State Forest will be managed through Mississinewa Lake. Recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding, will continue to be available at both properties, and both properties will maintain staffing. Primitive and horseman’s campsites at Salamonie River State Forest will be reservable via that Indiana State Parks reservation system starting in August for reservations beginning on September 1.

“By managing Salamonie River and Frances Slocum state forests through Indiana State Parks, we’re providing a warm welcome for guests to come check out these two great forests,” said Alan Morrison, DNR director.

The Indiana State Parks system manages 24 state parks and seven small satellite locations, eight reservoir properties, two state forest recreation areas, and two off-road riding areas.