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Morgan-Monroe State Forest
Overview
Morgan-Monroe State Forest covers more than 24,000 acres of beautiful hardwood timber across the ridges of southern Indiana. Established in 1929, this destination provides a serene alternative to the more crowded state parks in the region. It offers a rugged natural escape for those who prefer the sights and sounds of the forest over commercial resort amenities. Visitors are greeted by deep valleys and high ridges that showcase the region's diverse ecosystem and stunning seasonal foliage changes.
Location & Surroundings
Situated primarily in Martinsville, IN, the forest is conveniently located between the bustling city of Indianapolis and the vibrant college town of Bloomington. The rolling hills of southern Indiana provide a dramatic backdrop for travelers arriving via State Road 37. This location offers easy access to the scenic beauty of the Midwest while remaining tucked away from the noise of major highways and urban sprawl, allowing for a quiet night under the stars.
Amenities & Park Features
RV travelers typically stay at the Mason Ridge Campground, which provides electric hookups suitable for smaller to mid-sized rigs. While the forest focuses on a primitive experience, guests have access to vault toilets and seasonal water fill stations. Key features of the grounds include:
- Access to the historic Mason Ridge Fire Tower for panoramic views of the canopy.
- Several small lakes, including Cherry Lake, perfect for quiet fishing or paddling.
- Spacious, wooded sites that provide a high level of privacy compared to modern resorts.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive trail system, including the challenging Low Gap Trail and the scenic Three Lakes Trail. Fishing is a popular pastime at the three onsite lakes, where bluegill and largemouth bass are common catches. For a change of pace, the nearby Yellowwood State Forest offers additional water recreation, while the local shops and historic architecture in Martinsville provide a charming small-town experience for day-trippers.
Who This Park Is Best For
This forest is ideal for RVers who value solitude and nature over luxury resort features. It is a perfect fit for van lifers, small travel trailer owners, and those seeking a basecamp for serious hiking or nature photography. Travelers who enjoy a rustic camping atmosphere and do not mind skipping full sewer or water hookups will find this state forest to be a refreshing and quiet retreat in the heart of Indiana's timberland.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
emm dee
Found fantastic long hikes here that helped with ambitious training for the mountains. The Low Gap Trail with is 2 nature preserves was lovely in the early fall time. We got rain the second day so opted for the paved bike trail which had gentle slopes and welcomed us with a dry shelter to eat lunch at before turning around and headed back to the park office.
Brandon Kriese Jr.
Morgan Monroe is beautiful, has a great main building, with structure, history and even the restrooms are very nice and clean. The trails are scenic and can be rugged. The only thing I will say negative about the forest is that the back entrance is awful. It's like driving through "cinder block" mountain. Overall it is a magnificent place to go and enjoy a day hike or picnic. There is also the secobd longest trail in Indiana, the Tecumseh, and it will soon be part of the future 160 miles Knobstone trail.
Chris Mullins
Great place to get away, convenient to Indy and Bloomington. Take your bug spray for the ticks if you get off the beaten path.
Osvaldo Reyes
Good trails and car access throughout. The paved road access from Catholic Cemetery Rd could use some work, but it should not be a problem for a vehicle with high ground clearance. Nice place for a nature hike!
Oludare Aladejebi
Went backpacking here with some friends, loved the trails, creeks, and all the beautiful trees!
Ginger Trine
Wonderful winter walk through the woods on a cold day. Ice flows were spectacular at the Rock Shelter on Low Gap trail.
David Arnold
Humongous Park with unimproved trails everywhere. They also have a very long easier paved hiking biking trail. This park is not to be missed it's my absolute favorite. It's not super crowded or at least it's just so huge it doesn't feel that way.
Judy O'Day
We hiked a portion of the Low Gap and sectioned hike the Tecumseh down to Bear Lake. Beautiful sunny day in the 50s. Couldn't have been better hiking weather. We started at the MM park headquarters and wow, the nicest hqs I have seen in any Indiana State Forest. Trails were well marked. Not a terribly difficult trail but definitely ascents and descents, some fairly steep, all pretty short. Also, there are several creek crossings, a few had beautiful bridges over them.