White Oak Nature Preserve

White Oak Nature Preserve lies within Clark State Forest, Indiana's oldest State Forest. Poison ivy and stinging nettle are scarce in the preserve, but mosquitoes and the incessant noise from nearby I-65 can be annoying.

Trail

Trails

A pleasant trail of nearly a mile loops through forest dominated by white oak. Of course, other species are also present, and a sporadically available trail brochure describes some of them, along with other notable features marked by 25 numbered stations.

Unfortunately, some of the stations are missing, while others stand faithfully by subjects that no longer exist. The trail is gently rolling, and crosses numerous small wooden footbridges.

Directions

Clark County. From I-65 Exit 19, follow prominent signs to Clark State Forest. On entering the forest, follow the main forest road toward the fire tower. Just after crossing over Interstate 65, a large sign on the left marks the entrance to the preserve. Park at the nearby shelter house and walk over to the entrance.

North 38 33.560 West 85 46.824
DeLorme 58:D6

Facilities

Composting toilet across road, near shelter house.

Nearby Natural Areas

Charlestown State Park
Deam Lake State Recreation Area

References

Habeck: Wild Indiana; Page 123
Indiana Department of Natural Resources
McPherson: Nature Walks in Southern Indiana; Page 166