Deam Lake State Rec Area

Deam Lake is forest property designed for recreational activities. Under the multiple use concept, a variety of compatible activities are available. These include fishing, boating, swimming, camping, picnicking, hiking and hunting in designated areas. The 194-acre lake was constructed in 1965 and was named in honor of Charles Deam, Indiana's first state forester. Deam is best known for his book, Trees of Indiana, a comprehensive study of trees throughout the state. He was also instrumental in getting land set aside for what is now the Department of Natural Resources. Deam Lake has 116 class "A" campsites and an additional 68 class "A" sites in the horsemen's campground. The horsemen's campground has two short lead-outs to connect to the 80 miles of horse trails in Clark State Forest. Class "A" facilities include electrical hookup, modern restrooms/showers (at least one shower station wheelchair accessible), picnic table, fire ring and parking spur. Drinking water and a dump station are also available in the area.  Deam Lake SRA is home to five hiking trails, which range from easy to rugged. All trails are marked with white paint blazes. At certain points on Trails 3 and 4, you may encounter trees with two white paint blazes. Two blazes means that there is a split in the trail (horse trails and rogue trails often confuse hikers), and that you should locate the next white paint blaze before continuing. Descriptions of each trail can be found below. Hikers are advised to wear hunter orange or other bright clothing while on trails during hunting season. Should you have any further questions regarding difficulty, trail updates, or problems, please contact our Naturalist, Rocky Brown, at (812) 246-5421 during regular operating hours. In addition to Deam Lake's hiking trails, a trailhead to the Knobstone Trail is also located on the property.