The Sand Dunes State Forest is located within the bounds of Orrock Township, named after the first white settler in the area, Robert Orrock, who arrived in 1857. When these first settlers came, the land was virgin prairie. Most of these pioneers were farmers, thus most of this prairie was turned by their breaking plows. The early major crops were oats, rye, wheat, barley, corn, potatoes, and hay.

Even though sandy soils were not conducive to high yields, farming continued as a major source of income for many families until the late 1920's and early 1930's. The effect of the "Great Depression" of the 30's and the "Dust Bowl" drought of 1933-1934 brought an end to most farming in the area. The light, worn out soils "took to the air and drifted like snow" over roads and onto front porches.

Concerned citizens who wanted to stabilize the drifting sand began experimental tree planting in 1941. Many species, including both hardwoods and conifers, were planted. The conifers surpassed the hardwood species in survival and growth.