Monroe Lake

About

Monroe Lake sits 6 miles south of Bloomington in the heart of southern Indiana's rolling hardwood forests. As the state's largest reservoir at 10,750 acres, it anchors a popular recreation destination managed jointly by Indiana DNR and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Paynetown State Recreation Area serves as the primary camping hub, offering 318 sites across electric, non-electric, shelter, and tent-only categories. The campground caters to a wide range of camping styles. Electric sites feature 30-amp hookups with both pull-through and back-in configurations, accommodating RVs from 32 to 60 feet depending on the specific site. Modern comfort stations provide hot showers and flush toilets, while dump stations serve RV campers. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and grill. Water recreation dominates activity here. The full-service marina offers boat rentals, fuel, and supplies. Multiple boat ramps and fishing docks provide easy lake access. A swim beach, nature center, hiking trails, and an amphitheater round out the amenities. The surrounding 13,000+ acres of protected forest support excellent wildlife viewing, including notable bald eagle populations during winter months.

Directions

From Bloomington, take IN-37 south to the Smithville Road or Harrodsburg exits, or head east on IN-46 then south on IN-446. The campground entrance is at 4850 South State Road 446, Bloomington, IN 47401.