Monroe Lake
4850 SOUTH STATE ROAD 446, BLOOMINGTON, Indiana, 47401, United States
Monroe Lake
$35.00 - $85.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees mentioned in user reviews suggest purchase of permanent lots for camping. No specific fee breakdown provided for temporary stays.
About this campground
Nestled along the shores of Monroe Lake, Indiana's spectacular 10,750-acre aquatic playground, this private campground serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, navigating hidden coves by boat, or exploring miles of scenic trails, this permanent-owner community offers an authentic escape where nature enthusiasts can truly settle into the rhythm of lakeside living.
Monroe Lake provides a mix of camping options, including improved and primitive camping sites. However, no specific details about site types or capacities are available.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground itself tells a quieter story, its location on Monroe Lake connects visitors to the rich heritage of south-central Indiana's limestone country and the transformation of the Salt Creek Valley into one of the Midwest's premier recreational destinations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full splendor of Indiana's changing seasons, where spring wildflowers give way to sun-drenched summer days perfect for lake activities. Peak season stretches from May through October, when temperatures hover comfortably between 70-85°F and the campground buzzes with outdoor enthusiasm. Even as autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant golds and crimsons, mild days invite continued exploration, while winter transforms the landscape into a peaceful retreat for the hardy few.
ElevationGently rolling terrain follows the natural contours of Monroe Lake's shoreline, where mature hardwood forests create a canopy of shade over campsites. The landscape flows seamlessly from wooded ridges down to the water's edge, offering varied perspectives and microclimates throughout the property.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine woodland sanctuary where towering oaks and hickories frame glimpses of Monroe Lake's shimmering expanse. Morning mist rises from secluded coves as great blue herons stalk the shallows, while hiking trails wind through forests alive with songbirds and seasonal wildflowers. From dramatic sunset vistas across the water to intimate forest glens carpeted with spring beauties and trilliums, nature reveals itself in countless captivating moments.
Geological RegionSituated within Indiana's distinctive limestone belt, the campground rests on ancient seabeds that now cradle Monroe Lake—the state's largest reservoir. This unique geological setting creates a diverse ecosystem where upland forests meet aquatic habitats, supporting an impressive array of wildlife from white-tailed deer and wild turkey to bass and crappie that thrive in the lake's limestone-filtered waters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe authoritative content does not provide specific information about accessibility features.
Sites SizeSite size information is not explicitly detailed in the provided data.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy levels of the campsites are not specifically mentioned.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor proximity to the lake, staying in a permanent lot close to the water is ideal as suggested by user reviews.
Best CampsitesAs camping is restricted to permanent lots, no specific sites are identified as best.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- Permanent lots available for purchase
- temporary stay limits not mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Based on user reviews, the campground appears family-oriented but specific guest limits per site are not detailed.
Groups
Details about group site capacities or restrictions are absent.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutDescribed as wooded with permanent lots; not flat or uniform.
Open and Closed SeasonCamping season is noted as May through October based on a user review.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms mentioned; appears to cater to permanent lot owners.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation not clear, but camping appears restricted to permanent lot owners and not walk-up sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not mentioned.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Monroe Lake provides numerous recreational activities for visitors. These include hiking, bird watching, boating, jet skiing, and swimming in the reservoir. Cultural or educational programs are mentioned, and activities like sunbathing and scenic drives are also available.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available on-site, but details about their lengths or difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing facilities include docks and a fish cleaning station, making it an attractive option for anglers.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in the reservoir, but there are no specific details about designated areas or safety measures.Biking
Bicycling is listed as an available activity, but further details on paths or terrain are absent.Boating
Boating opportunities are plentiful, with amenities such as a marina, boat rentals, and docks. Activities include sailboarding and windsurfing.Wildlife viewing
The site is suitable for bird and eagle viewing, enhancing its appeal to nature enthusiasts.Beach activities
Sunbathing is explicitly mentioned, indicating areas for beach-related activities.Cultural and Educational Programs
Recreational programs hint at cultural or educational activities, but no specifics about topics or schedules are provided.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities have been mentioned.Water Sports
Jet skiing, sailboarding, and windsurfing are featured among the water sports options.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings are available within facilities based on official source.
- Quiet hours are Not detailed in the available data.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards are not mentioned; no specific safety concerns detailed.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station (Phone: 8128379546) located within facility. Proximity to Bloomington likely provides access to hospitals and police stations. Specific hospital names not mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay through October noted as active season in reviews.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLake Monroe is within walking distance and provides opportunities for fishing and boating.
Common complaintsSome users mention restrictions on camping locations and the exclusive nature of permanent lots. Another comment highlights the old-fashioned camping style as opposed to more modern facilities.
HostNo specific host information provided but owners are noted as friendly by multiple reviewers.
Campground Map
4850 SOUTH STATE ROAD 446, BLOOMINGTON, Indiana, 47401, United States
Driving directionsFrom the north, State Rd 37 south to State Rd. 46 east to State Rd. 446 south to property. From the south, State Rd. 37 north to State Rd. 50 east to State Rd. 446 north to property. From the east, State Rd. 46 west to State Rd. 446 south to property. From the west, State Rd. 46 east to State Rd. 446 south to property.
State roads provide convenient access from all directions. Roads appear to be paved and not seasonally restricted based on the official source.Nearby places
Bloomington (6 miles), Brown County State Park (approx. distance not specified), McCormick's Creek State Park (approx. distance not specified), Springmill State Park (approx. distance not specified)
Nearby supplies
Fuel for boats and seasonal concessions are available within the facility, and Bloomington nearby likely offers groceries and general camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews

Monroe Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Monroe Lake are generally positive, highlighting its family-friendly atmosphere, seasonal and permanent camping options, and proximity to the lake.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many users appreciate the community feel of the campground, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the proximity to Monroe Lake. Quotes like "Everyone helps keep eyes on kids. Perfect for families"...
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Common Concerns
Some users have expressed concerns about the limited availability of non-permanent camping spots. Comments like "You can't just camp anywhere" indicate restricted access options.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest enjoying the lake and being mindful of the campground's focus on permanent and seasonal sites. Quotes like "Super convenient if you have a boat" highlight its appeal for water...
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Seasonal Insights
Campers frequently mention enjoying the site from May through October, emphasizing its seasonal operation for many permanent campers.
Camper Quotes
"Such a clean safe wonderful Lil Campground where you feel like part of a family." "Great place. Family community. Old fashion camping w trailers on lots."
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers or areas are reviewed in detail.
Accessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility for disabled individuals.
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews discuss the campground's pet policies or experiences with pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025