Most of the facilities are on top of the majestic Chickasaw Bluffs that rise from the bottomlands and are covered with large oaks, American beech, hickory and sweet gum.

Deer, turkey, otter, beaver, foxes and bobcats are plentiful throughout the forest. Over 200 species of songbirds, waterfowl, shorebirds and birds of prey, including the American Bald Eagle can be seen; the area is a favorite for bird-watchers.

Meeman-Shelby Forest offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails that wind throughout the park. Visitors with an interest in hiking will enjoy the approximately eight-mile, wooded Chickasaw Bluff Trail. It is open to hikers and meanders along a bluff with the largest loop overlooking Poplar Tree Lake.