Indiana DNR Offers Guided Hike to Fossil Beds at Allen’s Creek SRA, Nov. 18

A special hike to the fossil beds at Allen’s Creek State Recreation Area will be led by Monroe Lake naturalist Jill Vance on Sunday, Nov. 18, at 2 p.m.

The hike is free but limited to 20 people. Registration is required by Nov. 14 by calling (812) 837-9967 or emailing jvance@dnr.IN.gov. Directions will be available when you register.

“The limestone shoreline around the point of Allen’s Creek is so dense with fossils that it’s hard to find ‘plain’ rock,” Vance said. “The fossil beds are filled with crinoids and corals, which are remnants of the shallow sea that once covered Indiana.”

On the hike to and from the fossil beds, Vance will discuss the broader geological story told by the rock layers exposed in the Monroe Lake area. Round-trip hike distance is about four miles over moderate terrain. The hike takes roughly 2.5 hours.

Monroe Lake is at 4850 South State Road 446, Bloomington, 47401.

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is the agency of the U.S. state of Indiana charged with maintaining natural areas such as state parks, state forests, recreation areas, etc. There are many divisions within the DNR and each has a specific role. The DNR is not only responsible for maintaining resource areas but also manages Indiana's fish and wildlife, reclaims coal mine ground, manages forested areas, aids in the management of wildlife on private lands, enforces Indiana's conservation laws, and many other duties not named here. According to the department's website, their mission is "to protect, enhance, preserve, and wisely use natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education."