Buster posted this back in 2012. His sources were correct and the DNR is in fact now leasing/renting this property out for hunting, horseback riding and recreation.

"Not long ago, the Nature Conservancy purchased the Gelhausen Property, located in Parke County, Indiana. It was roughly 300 acres of pristine old growth hardwood forest along the Sugar Creek corridor. The DNR Divsion of Forestry 'acquired' the property in hopes of operating a horse camp there and creating more public land for all to enjoy. For several years, only privledged persons with close affilations of DNR upper brass were allowed to hunt it. It was NEVER opened to the public, but was managed by DNR (state) funding. I just learned from VERY credible sources that the state has decided to LEASE Covered Bridge State Forest for deer hunting beginning this 2012 hunting season. The entire 300+ acres and the lodge are available for 6 hunters for 7 days at a time at a cost of $1300. Although the attachment does not mention hunting in bold print, I found it under the amentities tab as a listed activity.
Nice to know that our fine folks at the DNR who manage our public lands are NOW LEASING OUR PUBLIC LANDS, and therefore making them unavailable to the rest of us who help funding.

http://www.in.gov/dnr/forestry/7422.htm"

link:
http://hunt-indiana.com/thread/43741