Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest Conditions

Conditions as of Wednesday, October 7, 2009:

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Fall is definitely here at the Northern Highlands American Legion State Forest. Campers are enjoying the cool fall nights dropping into the 30’s. Colors here in the forest are just about at their peak and should be seen within the next couple weeks. There’s no better time to get out your bicycles and hiking shoes and enjoy the great outdoors….less people, no mosquitoes!

Lots of sportsmen are enjoying the forest too. Muskie fishermen are out in force. Bow hunters have been reporting some nice bucks. The youth gun deer hunt is this weekend (Oct. 10 & 11).

Crystal, Muskie, Firefly, Indian Mounds, Carroll, West Star and North Trout Campgrounds are open until the ground is snow covered. Clear Lake Campground will be open all winter. From the Clear Lake Campground winter campers can ice fish on Clear Lake and cross-country ski on the beautiful raven ski trails. The campground shower facilities will be closing October 13, along with the potable and rinse water at the dump stations. Campers will still be able to dump until snow prevents it.

Ranger Stations

The Crystal Lake and Clear Lake Ranger Stations are open year-round. Fall and winter hours are usually 9am-5pm, and they are open most weekends. These hours may vary due to staffing. If the station is closed, visitors can self-register near the front of both buildings. At the Ranger Stations you can purchase vehicle admission stickers, trail passes, firewood permits, bough permits and Christmas tree permits.

Nature Center

The Crystal Lake Nature Center is now closed for the season.