Charles C. Deam Wilderness

The Charles C. Deam Wilderness area was designated a wilderness in 1982 and encompasses nearly 13,000 acres of the Hoosier National Forest. Wilderness designation places this area in a special legal status (subject to the 1964 Wilderness Act). It is managed to preserve a natural condition and provide opportunities for solitude. Within the Wilderness are 37.3 miles of trails which are provided for hiking, backpacking, and horse riding. People are allowed to camp within the wilderness but there are several restrictions. Camping within 100 feet of ponds, Monroe Lake, trails, or streams is allowed only in designated sites. Campsites must be occupied the first night, and may not be left unattended for more than 24 hours without permission. Camping is limited to 14 days. Take State Route 446 south from State Route 46 out of Bloomington and turn at Tower Ridge Road. You will see a sign for the Charles C. Deam Wilderness and the Maumee Boy Scout Camp. It is a gravel road. The Wilderness boundary begins just a few hundred feet down this road and continues for several miles. Please get a map before visiting this area as the boundaries are not clearly marked. GPS Coordinates for the Grubb Ridge Trailhead: Lat- 39o 1' 57.724"N Long- 86o 20' 26.973"W