Recreational activities offered at the Indian Lake campground within the forest include camping, fishing, and a canoe route on the Cloquet River.

Among the animals that live in the forest there are: Pine Marten, Beaver, Otter, Wolves, Bear, White Tail Deer, Fox, Moose, and Lynx.

Numerous species of birds can be found in the Cloquet Valley State Forest as well including: Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls, and Common Loons.

Fish found in the waters of the state forest include: Walleye, Musky, Northern Pike, Large/Small Mouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Sunfish and Crappie.

Large stands of red and white pine can be found in this forest along with other coniferous trees such as Spruce, Fir, and Tamarack.