Deam Lake State Recreation Area | Borden, IN 47106
- Deam Lake Road, Clark County, Indiana, 47106, United States
- 812-246-5421
- December 5, 2025
Yellowwood State Forest – DNR
Description
OVERVIEW
Tucked away in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, Yellowwood State Forest offers a peaceful escape into nature. Located near Nashville, this 1,500-acre forest is a hidden gem, known for its serene lake, lush woodlands, and abundance of wildlife. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat to relax or a place to explore on foot, Yellowwood is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
With its diverse habitats of hardwood forests, wetlands, and lakeside landscapes, Yellowwood State Forest invites visitors to reconnect with the natural world through hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife watching. Its quiet trails, scenic views, and pristine lake make it the perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful, rustic outdoor experience.
THE CAMPGROUND
The campground at Yellowwood State Forest offers a laid-back, rustic camping experience, with sites nestled in the heart of the forest, surrounded by towering trees and peaceful surroundings.
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Campsite Options: The park offers tent-only sites as well as primitive camping areas, perfect for those who want to experience nature up close and unplug from the outside world. There are also a few RV-friendly sites that provide a more basic camping experience.
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Amenities: Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and grill, giving campers everything they need to enjoy outdoor meals and campfire nights. Restrooms and drinking water are available, though the park retains a rustic, back-to-nature vibe.
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Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in designated areas, but must be kept on a leash. This makes it a great spot for those traveling with their furry companions, allowing them to enjoy the park's beauty as well.
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Family-Friendly: The quiet and secluded nature of the park makes it an excellent place for families to spend time together, offering a safe environment for kids to explore and enjoy the outdoors.
WATER, TRAILS & LOCAL ADVENTURE
Yellowwood State Forest is an excellent place to immerse yourself in nature, whether you prefer exploring by foot, fishing in the lake, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
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Yellowwood Lake: The centerpiece of the park, Yellowwood Lake, is a tranquil 60-acre lake that offers plenty of opportunities for fishing and paddling. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bluegill, bass, and crappie, making it a popular spot for anglers. You can also bring a kayak or canoe to explore the still waters, or enjoy a quiet afternoon by the shore.
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Fishing: Whether you’re fishing from the lake’s shore or a small boat, Yellowwood Lake offers a peaceful and secluded spot for fishing. It’s a perfect place to spend a relaxing day casting a line and waiting for a bite.
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Hiking Trails: For hikers, Yellowwood State Forest offers a variety of trails that lead through the forest, alongside the lake, and up into the surrounding hills. Trails like the Yellowwood Lake Trail offer scenic views of the lake and forest, while other routes, such as the Trail 5, take you deeper into the woods, offering the chance to see a wide range of local wildlife and plants.
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Wildlife & Birdwatching: Yellowwood is home to abundant wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species such as wild turkeys and woodpeckers. Birdwatchers will enjoy the quiet trails and wooded areas where they can observe native species in their natural habitat.
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Mountain Biking: For those who enjoy biking, the park offers several mountain biking trails, with varying levels of difficulty, that wind through the forest and provide a fun way to experience the landscape on two wheels.
EVENING VIBES & FAMILY MOMENTS
As the day winds down, Yellowwood State Forest offers the perfect environment for relaxing and reconnecting with nature.
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Campfire Gatherings: After a day of exploration, gather around your campsite’s campfire ring and share stories, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the warmth of the fire. The peaceful sounds of the forest and the flicker of the flames create the ideal setting for a relaxing evening.
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Stargazing: With little light pollution, Yellowwood State Forest offers an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Lie back on a blanket and enjoy the night sky, as you watch for shooting stars and constellations.
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Family Bonding: The calm and secluded atmosphere is ideal for families to unwind together. Take a stroll around the lake, explore the trails, or simply sit by the fire and watch the flames dance under the stars. The park offers a chance to disconnect from the fast pace of life and enjoy quality time in nature.
WHO IT’S FOR
Yellowwood State Forest is perfect for:
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Nature Lovers & Peace Seekers: If you’re looking for a quiet, rustic retreat away from the crowds, this park is ideal. It’s a place to reconnect with nature, enjoy the beauty of the forest, and find peace by the lake.
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Families: The park offers a safe, family-friendly environment with plenty of activities for all ages. Kids will love exploring the trails, fishing in the lake, and spending time outdoors.
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Hikers & Campers: With its extensive trail system and beautiful campsites, Yellowwood is perfect for hikers and campers who want to experience a back-to-nature adventure in the woods.
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Fishing & Water Sports Enthusiasts: Whether you’re into fishing or paddling, Yellowwood Lake provides a serene setting for water activities.
PARK ADDRESS & KEY LOGISTICS
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Address: 772 Yellowwood Lake Rd, Nashville, IN 47448
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Contact: (812) 988-7945
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Reservations: Reservations are available for campsites, especially during peak seasons. Make reservations online or by calling the park.
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Season & Hours: The park is open year-round, but camping is typically available from spring through fall.
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Accessibility: Some trails and campsites are accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. Check the park’s website for further details.
WHY YELLOWWOOD STATE FOREST?
Yellowwood State Forest offers a peaceful retreat into the heart of nature. Whether you’re hiking through scenic woods, fishing in a tranquil lake, or simply enjoying the quiet moments by the campfire, this park provides a perfect escape from everyday life. It’s a place where families can bond, adventurers can explore, and anyone seeking peace can find it in abundance.
Location
772 Yellowwood Lake Rd, Nashville, IN 47448
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