Monroe Lake offers numerous cabin camping options within the Hoosier National Forest region. Located in south-central Indiana, the 10,750-acre reservoir sits at an elevation of 538 feet above sea level. Cabin accommodations range from primitive forest service structures to fully-equipped family rentals with varying seasonal availability.
What to do
Fishing from rental boats: Hardin Ridge Recreation Area provides boat ramp access with docks. "We went fishing down by the ramp and caught a mess of bluegill which we fried up back at the campsite," shares Sheldon E., highlighting the lake's fishing opportunities.
Swimming at lakefront beaches: The recreation area maintains dedicated swimming areas with sandy beaches. "This campground is on the south side of Monroe lake and has beach access. I tent camped solo and everything went great!" notes Christine C. about Hardin Ridge's water access.
Hiking forest trails: Multiple trail networks surround the lake with varying difficulty levels. "The campground has nice hiking trails and it's own boat ramp with a dock," explains a Hardin Ridge visitor, while another mentions, "Bring bug and tick repellant" when exploring the extensive trail system.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Monroe Village earns praise for its well-spaced cabins and campsites. One regular visitor notes they "keep our camper here full-time" because of the "nice pool" and "great people."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards throughout their cabin areas. "Very well kept, pleasant people. Nice location," explains Darren A. about Lake Monroe Village's commitment to maintenance.
Seasonal activities: Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe offers organized events throughout their operating season. "We came here in 2017 with a group of friends and camped in the primitive camping area. It was an awesome set up and we had a great time," says Ryan G., mentioning seasonal activities like "costume contest, pumpkin decorating contest, and trick or treat."
What you should know
Reservation windows vary: During peak season, cabin availability becomes extremely limited. "You will see reserved signs on every reservable site whether anyone is actually in them that night or not," explains a Hardin Ridge visitor, advising early bookings.
Site types and layouts: Yellowwood State Forest offers more primitive cabin options compared to other Monroe Lake properties. "The campgrounds are numbered and have their own names. Think there are 80 sites in total," notes Sammii D., adding that "sites can hold 6 people total and come with a fire pit with a grill attachment."
Access considerations: Many cabin areas require driving on unpaved roads. "Yellowwood road changes over to gravel once you enter the state forest. It is well maintained," explains Daisy C., though she mentions Jackson Creek road is "a bit rougher."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Free Spirit Campground provides family-friendly water activities beyond the lake. "Nice putt-putt course and they are finishing up a facelift on the inground pool," notes Taylor about the recently renovated facilities under new management.
Age-appropriate amenities: Jellystone Park specializes in child-focused activities. "If you are camping with kids, they will love this place," states Chris, though he notes, "It is very busy on Saturday's (and more than likely Friday's), but it clears out Sunday morning."
Camp store convenience: Several properties maintain on-site supplies. "A food trailer operates in the lot at some hours," mentions Joe M. about Jellystone's food options, while also noting the "nice camp store with all the necessities plus ice cream by the scoop and slushies."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Spring Mill State Park Campground requires careful placement for larger RVs with cabins. "I had a back in gravel site that was difficult to back into and sloped back. I had to nearly lower my tongue to the ground to get it level," explains Joe M. about Jellystone's site configuration.
Electrical connections: Most cabin campgrounds offer electric hookups, but amperage varies. "There's 4 loops with 30 & 50 amp. 2 loops with no electric," reports Cynthia K. from her visit to Hardin Ridge.
Limited full hookup options: Cabin areas prioritize electric over full utilities. "Whereas power and water were reasonably placed, the sewer was setup in a manner that waste water had to flow uphill," notes a Jellystone camper about the utility placements.
