Morgan-Monroe State Forest offers primitive camping options near Gosport, Indiana with multiple campgrounds across its forested terrain. Located about 25 minutes northeast of Gosport, this state forest features a main campground with around 20 sites, an overflow area with 10 additional spaces, and primitive backcountry camping along several trails. Most sites accommodate tents easily, while smaller RVs and trailers can fit at select locations with careful maneuvering.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail systems: Morgan-Monroe State Forest provides multiple trail options ranging from short walks to challenging treks. "There are a lot of trails to hike 2 of them are over 10 miles (lower gap and three lakes). The Tecumseh trail (40 miles) starts in Morgan Monroe State Forest passes through Yellowwood State Forest and ends in the Hoosier national Forest," notes Ron H. from Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Water recreation on three lakes: The state forest contains three small lakes perfect for fishing and paddling. According to Ginger T., "When tent camping and want something quiet and a place with great trails, this is a good place to go. Even though it's hot outside today, there's lots of shade and a breeze."
Seasonal swimming at Shakamak State Park: About 30 minutes west of Gosport, Shakamak State Park offers an enormous swimming pool with water slides during summer months. "There's plenty to do here for all ages. There are three beautiful lakes there that are good for boating and fishing. There is a large pool too with a nature center that has limited hours," shares Ginger T. at Shakamak State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple small lakes throughout the region provide good fishing access. Don N. from Morgan-Monroe State Forest mentions, "This is a great place to camp and hike, although there is no electric hookup we had a generator that we used sparklingly."
What campers like
Secluded, quiet camping spots: Most camping areas near Gosport provide peaceful settings away from crowds. "Small sites, secluded campground. This campground is decent if you get one of the few good spots. Many sites are small and can only accommodate a tent. Has water and vault toilets," explains Joe B. at Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Level, wooded campsites: Shakamak State Park features unusually level sites, which campers appreciate. "The sites are all flat- ALL FLAT!!! No inclined sites at all! Unheard of in an Indiana State Park, but there you go," notes Cynthia K. from Shakamak State Park.
Private glamping options close to Gosport, Indiana: For travelers seeking upscale glamping close to Gosport, Indiana, Hoosiers On The Ridge offers an alternative. "We have 3 sites that back up to Yellowwood State Forest and can accommodate tents, vans, and trailers under 12ft," explains Riley F. from Hoosiers On The Ridge.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms at several parks. "The bathrooms/showers are KOA clean. Also unheard of in an Indiana State Park. I couldn't even find a spider web," remarks Cynthia K. about Shakamak State Park.
What you should know
Limited RV access at some locations: Many forest camping areas have size restrictions. "There are only about 5 sites we could get in to. Our camper is about 25' and it was tight get in and out of the campground. If you have a small camper (15' or smaller) there would more sites," warns Ron H. about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Self-registration process: At Morgan-Monroe State Forest, campers select sites first then pay. "When you arrive set up at your site. Then you will need to go WITH EXACT CHANGE to the sign in at the main building. It's easy, there is a little box on the side of the firewood shed," explains Rob R. from Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Limited cell service: Some camping areas have spotty coverage. "My husband has Verizon and his was spotty," notes Monica C. about service at Turkey Run State Park.
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "Oak Ridge Campground is a second campground loop in MMSF. It only has a handful of sites but feels very secluded. Most of these sites are suited for tents only, or little teardrop campers. Oak Ridge is only open as an 'overflow' campground, so only bet on it being open during summer," explains Daisy C.
Tips for camping with families
Consider lakeside camping: Multiple lakes provide water activities for children. "This campground has a beautiful fishing pier just for campers," Cynthia K. mentions about Shakamak State Park.
Look for kid-friendly activity centers: Some parks offer dedicated children's recreation. "I loved this campground. Nice Trails, fishing pier in the family campground. Camp store. Nice loop around the park to ride your bike. Swimming pool," says nicole B. about Shakamak State Park.
Check for playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds. "There is a playground at the entrance of Mason Ridge campground and a fire tower," Ginger T. notes about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Consider Jellystone for younger children: For premium glamping near Gosport with extensive children's activities, Jellystone Park at Lake Monroe offers specialized facilities. "Great Park! Great splash pad and pools lots to do for the kiddos! Great trails to hike, friendly staff!" shares Shawn L. about Jellystone Park at Lake Monroe.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling needs: Many sites require leveling equipment. "We did need to use several leveling blocks on our site, which made for a doosey of a bottom step into and out of our trailer," mentions GP from Brown County-Nashville KOA.
Look for full hookup sites: Limited full hookup sites exist at select parks. "There are a couple of campgrounds on the property. The main campground has around 20 sites. The overflow campgrounds as about 10 more sites. There is a youth campgrounds too. Each campground has pit toilets and wash station with water available to take to camp site," Ron H. explains about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Consider electric cord length: Some electric boxes are positioned awkwardly. "Bring an extension cord if you're in a pull through. If you want your door facing the fire pit- the electric box is in an awkward place," advises Cynthia K.
Check road conditions for larger rigs: Access roads can be challenging. "The entrance road to the campground is quite steep," notes GP about the Brown County-Nashville KOA.
