Morgan-monroe State Forest

Open — Open year-round. Mason Ridge Campground operates year-round while Oak Ridge and Scout Ridge campgrounds are closed January 1 through March 31. Water is shut off at all campgrounds and shelters October 31 and turned on in March as weather permits. A year-round hydrant is available near the main office.

About

Encompassing 24,515 acres in Morgan and Monroe counties, Morgan-Monroe State Forest is Indiana's second-largest state forest, characterized by steep ridges, valleys, and prime hardwood forests. The forest was established beginning in 1929 from abandoned farmland where rocky soil had frustrated early settlers' agricultural attempts. Today, the regenerated forest offers diverse recreational opportunities centered around primitive camping and trail exploration. The forest maintains three main camping areas: Mason Ridge Campground with 19 sites open year-round, Oak Ridge Campground with 10 sites for overflow camping, and Scout Ridge Youth Tent Campground with 6 larger group sites designed for scouts and youth organizations. All developed sites include picnic tables, grills, and vault toilets, with seasonal drinking water available from April through October. Backcountry camping is permitted in designated areas for up to three nights with advance registration, limited to family units or groups of six or fewer. Three forest lakes (Cherry Lake, Bryant Creek Lake, and the site of former Beanblossom Lake) provide fishing opportunities with electric trolling motor access. The trail system includes over 40 miles of hiking, from the easy 5.2-mile ADA-accessible paved path to the rugged 40-mile Tecumseh Trail. Rentable facilities include the primitive Draper Cabin, a modern lodge, and a training center. The forest operates under a carry-in, carry-out trash policy, and water systems are shut off from November through March, with a year-round hydrant available near the main office.

Directions

Located 35 miles south of Indianapolis via State Road 37 (5 miles south of Martinsville or 16 miles northeast of Bloomington). Follow signs 8 miles east of State Road 37. Main forest entrance is off Old State Road 37 via Main Forest Road, or via Beanblossom Road entrance off Anderson Road.

Nearby Campgrounds