Monroe Lake State Park
Explore park information, recreation, camping, maps, and visitor details.
Park overview
Surrounded by breathtaking views of state and federal forests, Monroe Lake State Park, is a water lover's paradise, featuring over 10,750-acres of amazing beautiful water. Located just outside of Bloomington, Indiana, this state park is Indiana's largest inland lake., and a must for your next RV outdoor adventure. From hiking and biking to bird watching and boating, Monroe Lake State Park provides a wide variety of outdoor fun and adventure.
The state and federal forest lands that encircle Monroe Lake State Park are spectacular. You will absolutely enjoy taking in the cool air coming from the lake while being surrounded by native wildlife including hawks, eagles, and bluebirds.
As soon as you park your travel trailer at Monroe Lake State Park, you can wander out on one of the many trails throughout the park. Check out some of the ecosystems of the park on the half-mile Tree Trek Trail. For those wishing to cruise a little farther, head out on the moderate one-mile Blue Bird Trail. Monroe Lake State Park is an excellent RV destination no matter the time of year you visit.
Park map
View the park location and surrounding area.
Nearby lakes
Lakes within 25 miles of Monroe Lake State Park.
Things to do
In-season activities
Popular things to do during the park's primary season.
Hiking
Don't forget to pack a great pair of hiking boots since there are several trails to choose from at Monroe Lake State Park that vary in difficulty. Should you be looking for an easy stroll or relaxing hike, check out the Tree Trek Trail. This half-mile trail takes you through the fields where viewing the ecosystem is prime, along with interpretive signs that guide you as you cruise through the beautiful scenery all around. Seeking a more difficult trek, head over to the moderate nearly two-mile Turkey Foot Trail, which is a hike-in/boat-in area that provides access to the camping areas.
Biking
Bring your bike to Monroe Lake State Park and head out onto the BlueBird Trail. When you park your rig you can cycle down the one-mile Whitetail Trail, a great moderate trail for a quick ride. You will venture through some of the forest and the spectacular scenery.
Swimming
Monroe Lake State Park is the perfect spot to cool off after a day of hiking, sightseeing, or relaxing. Pack your favorite swimsuit to be able to enjoy the pristine, inland lake. The beach area does not offer lifeguards, so swimming is at your own risk. Swimming pools are also available and they do provide lifeguards.
Off-season activities
Recreation commonly available outside the primary season.
Birding
Monroe Lake State Park is home to an abundant amount of bird species, so you will definitely want to ensure your binoculars are in your campervan. A few of the birds that you are able to see include hawks and Bluebirds. Ducks and other waterfowl may be viewed down at the waterfront. Also, the trails offer great viewing as you mingle throughout the forest and land.
Visiting the Nature Center
If you wish to learn more about the native wildlife and unique plant life of the park, park your camper at the Nature Center and check out the information inside. The displays and pamphlet information will provide you with the natural history and geology of the park. Also, if the park rangers are around, ask them questions about Monroe Lake State Park or any of the critters that call this area home.
Picnicking
Load up the family, friends, or camping neighbors and head down to the picnic areas at Monroe Lake State Park and enjoy those amazing burgers over the grill. With eight shelters and several picnic shelters located throughout the park you will find a prime location to have a birthday party, family reunion, or just a great get together of friends, including new ones you just met.
Campgrounds
Reservable campgrounds
Sites that generally accept advance reservations.
Monroe Lake State Park Campground
Monroe Lake State Park offers 312 pet-friendly campsites available for tents and RVs year-round. The campsites are split between Paynetown Campground Electric and Paynetown Campground Non-Electric. These campsites offer access to electricity and primitive locations. Amenities here include showers, restrooms, and two dump stations, one at the campground and one at the marina. Each site also has a gravel pad, fire ring, and grill. You will be near the trails and a playground. There is an entrance fee for in-state and out-of-state residents. Campers will use their receipt as an in/out pass during their stay.
First-come, first-served camping
Sites generally assigned after arrival, subject to availability.
First-Come, First-Served
There are limited campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis at this campground.
Getting there and around
Driving directions
Monroe Lake State Park is easy to access and locate by RV or other vehicle, with its location being only six miles from Bloomington, IN, off of State Road 446. Local roads will allow you to travel anywhere you wish to go in the park, from the Office and Visitors Center to the trails and campgrounds. There are no driving restrictions for trailers and RVs in the park, so you will be able to maneuver around quickly, whether you are in your RV or other vehicle.
Parking
There are numerous options for parking trailers and RVs, with lots located at the Office and Visitors Center, Dam, and trails. Of course, should you be staying at the campground overnight, you may park there.
Average monthly temperatures
Typical daily high and low temperatures near Monroe Lake State Park.
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | 36° | 41° | 52° | 64° | 74° | 82° | 86° | 84° | 78° | 66° | 52° | 41° |
| Low | 21° | 24° | 33° | 43° | 54° | 63° | 66° | 65° | 57° | 46° | 35° | 26° |
Historical averages describe typical conditions and are not a weather forecast.