BEDFORD– On the afternoon of April 8, most of the Hoosier National Forest will experience a total solar eclipse, and an influx of visitors will be here to witness it. The number of visitors will be unprecedented for our area, and we all need to be prepared for the effects.
Campgrounds on the National Forest are opening for the season early; however, from March 29 through April 9, they are by reservation only and were completely booked for April 8 by early March. Other dates can be reserved at www.recreation.gov. Visitors planning to come to the area and camp can do dispersed or primitive camping. Dispersed camping entails following the guidelines and establishing your campsite, keeping in mind there are no amenities such as tables, fire rings, restrooms, or trash cans, and the site must be returned to how it was found when you leave. It is not for everyone and requires planning, preparation, and the ability to “rough it”. Dispersed camping information can be found on the Forest’s website.
Local residents are advised to stay home to view the eclipse as traffic congestion and travel will be difficult. For those traveling, it is advised to fill up with fuel in advance, have cash for purchases, carry food with you, and have printed maps, as cell phones are likely to be impacted by the increased demand. If possible, plan to stay until April 9 or later to alleviate congestion on area roads and minimize your time spent waiting in traffic.
For those staying in the Hoosier National Forest or other natural areas, use caution with campfires as emergency response will likely be delayed. Clear the area of debris such as leaves and sticks, keep fires small, and always keep watch. Put your campfire completely out when done by pouring water on it, stirring it, and placing your hand close to ensure it is cold.
The Forest Service and our concessionaire will provide portable toilets, trash receptacles, and dumpsters at campgrounds and recreation areas. Visitors are encouraged to pack out their trash or dispose of it properly and follow the Leave No Trace principles while visiting.
Visitors who wish to travel to the Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower, Hickory Ridge Campground and trails, and areas east of State Road 446, should be aware that Tower Ridge Road will be closed to through traffic from April 4th through April 8th and should plan to use Hunter’s Creek Road instead. In addition, the Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower will be closed on the evening of April 7th through April 8th for visitor safety.
Office operations will be adjusted as follows starting April 1 to meet the needs of the influx of visitors and provide the best customer service during the Total Solar Eclipse event and the days leading up to it.
The Forest Service Tell City office will be open on Tuesday and Wednesday and will offer full services, including maps and pass sales. To provide visitor information in person or via phone, this office will be staffed on April 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CDT, with extended hours as needed. Normal operations will resume on April 9. The office is located at 248 15th Street, Tell City, IN, and the phone number is 812-547-7051.
The Forest Service Bedford office will be open full-service, including sales of maps, passes, eclipse glasses, etc., Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EDT. Full services will also be available on April 6th, 7th, and 8th. Extended hours will be offered as needed between April 4th and April 8th. The office is located at 811 Constitution Avenue, Bedford, IN, and the phone number is 812-275-5987.
For more information about the Hoosier National Forest and preparing for the eclipse, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/hoosier/learning/nature-science/?cid=fseprd1101633.
