A small portion of the forest extends into neighboring Carlton County.

Gray wolves, white-tailed deer, and eagles are present in the forest.

The majority of the forest came under the ownership of the state after tax forfeitures in the early 1900s.

Popular outdoor recreational activities are hunting, fishing and boating on lakes, birdwatching, and dispersed camping.

Trails are well-developed and extensive in the forest: 3 miles (4.8 km) trails are designated for hiking and cross-country skiing in the wintertime, 32 miles (51 km) for horseback riding, with 121 miles (195 km) designated for both Class I and II all-terrain vehicle and off-highway motorcycling use.