When one thinks of outdoor recreation in Indiana, it is likely that state parks would come to mind pretty quickly. What many do not realize is that there are fourteen state forests that are utilized for recreation as well as timber crop production. These forests also possess historical qualities that should not be forgotten. This paper examines the historical significance as well as environmental importance of two Indiana state forests: Owen-Putnam State Forest and Selmier State Forest. It examines the significance of the forests to humans throughout the 1900s. It argues that state forests should not be replaced by state parks, as they serve many purposes to us, even today.