Agriculture & Outdoor Recreation
Blue River
The Blue River originates in Washington County northeast of Salem Indiana and flows south to form the natural boundary between Crawford and Harrison County, Indiana. The Blue River continues south to the Ohio River. It was designated as Indiana's first state natural and scenic river system and is a favorite outdoor recreation destination in Indiana.
Cornucopia Farm is located 10 miles east of Salem and nine miles west of Scottsburg, Indiana making this farm a quick drive for anyone living in the metropolitan areas including Cincinnati, Indianapolis, and Louisville!
Consisting of corn and soybean mazes, a petting farm, and pumpkin patches, Cornucopia Farm offers something for everyone. With sweet treats, delicious burgers, and more available at the Café, no one in the family goes hungry!
Delaney Park & Knobstone Trail
Delaney Park is a 326-acre park with an 88-acre lake with unlimited recreational opportunities including swimming; fishing; modern and primitive camping; cabin, lodge, and shelter house rentals; boat rentals; basketball; volleyball; nature hikes; horseshoe pits; a playground area; and the Delaney Park restaurant. Access to the Knobstone trail is available from the Delaney Creek Park Trailhead located in the rear parking area of the park.
The Knobstone Trail is the longest hiking trail in the state of Indiana. Its southern terminus is in the Deam Lake State Recreation Area. It currently ends at Delaney Park near Salem, Indiana. There are plans to eventually extend the trail another 80 miles north to Martinsville, Indiana. As it lies along the Knobstone Escarpment, it is a difficult hike, which is why many use the Knobstone Trail to prepare for hiking the Appalachian Trail.
Elk Creek & Knobstone Trail
Elk Creek Lake is an approximately 48-acre lake located in Washington County between Salem and Scottsburg. Go east on SR 56 from Salem to the sign for Elk Creek or Ratts Rd, turn left (south) and go 2.3 miles to the Elk Creek entrance road to the Elk Creek Lake. This site also contains the Elk Creek Lake trailhead for Knobstone Trail.
The Knobstone Trail is the longest hiking trail in the state of Indiana. Its southern terminus is in the Deam Lake State Recreation Area. It currently ends at Delaney Park near Salem, Indiana. There are plans to eventually extend the trail another 80 miles north to Martinsville, Indiana. As it lies along the Knobstone Escarpment, it is a difficult hike, which is why many use the Knobstone Trail to prepare for hiking the Appalachian Trail.
Jackson-Washington County State Forest
The Jackson-Washington County State Forest encompasses 18,000 acres in both Jackson and Washington county. The state forest provides scenic views, old-growth forest, and breathtaking hiking opportunities. Within Washington county the following lakes are in the Jackson-Washington State Forest:
- Spurgeon Hollow Lake (12 acres)
- Potter Lake (10 acres)
- Plattsburg Pond (8 acres)
A valid Indiana Fishing License is required to fish at these lakes.
John Hay Lake
John Hay Lake is a 210-acre surface area impoundment located in the Rush Creek Valley, located 6 miles northwest of Salem. The lake offers tournament fishing and also a day of leisurely angling. This primitive area is also great for observing birds and animals in their natural habitat. Lake access includes one boat ramp.
Lake Salinda & Veterans’ Walking Trail
Lake Salinda is an 88-acre surface lake, owned by the city of Salem, Located 2 miles south of Salem on S.R. 135. Lake Salinda was once the primary drinking water source for Salem residents and is now the backup source. Lake Salinda offers tournament fishing and serves as a popular fishing spot for area anglers. Lake access includes one boat ramp.
The Veterans Walking Trail at Lake Salinda is a new hiking trail. The trailhead for the park is located at the back of the parking area of the lake. It is dedicated to those who have served in the military.
Spurgeon Hollow Lake & Backcounty Hiking Trail
The hiking trail at Spurgeon Hollow Lake runs a loop and is marked with blue blazes on the trees, and passes vistas, valleys, and ridge tops. This trail requires about 5 hours to hike and is a rugged/challenging 8-mile hike.