The majority of the land that now makes up the state forest was purchased by the state of Indiana in the 1930s and 1950s. The Heritage Trust program, using funds from the sale of environmental license plates, has made possible the acquisition of additional state forest land. Knob Lake Campground, located north of the forest office, has pit toilets and seasonal drinking water available. There is a picnic table and grill located on each of the campground's 62 sites. Campsite 11 is a wheelchair accessible site.
Fire- wood is available near the forest office.
A Youth Tent Campground is available for scouts or other groups . The Youth Camping area is located at the trailhead for Trail 3. Backcountry camping is available in the backcountry area and along the Knobstone Trail . Plattsburg Pond and Potter Lake are walk-in lakes. Swimming is not permitted in any of the lakes.