Monroe Lake offers primitive and developed campgrounds surrounded by over 10,000 acres of hardwood forest. Seasonal temperatures range from summer highs in the mid-80s to winter lows around 20°F, with the lake often experiencing morning fog in spring and fall. Camping options extend beyond traditional tent and RV sites to include yurt camping near Monroe Lake at select locations.
What to do
**Mountain biking trails: eXplore Brown County provides direct access to mountain bike trails right from your campsite. "Great camp! Covered with trees with great spots near the creek," notes reviewer Carter T., who adds that the playground areas make it ideal for families with children.
**Boating and fishing: Ransburg Scout Reservation sits directly on Monroe Lake with multiple boating options available. "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing," writes Margo B., who has experienced both cabin and tent camping at the property.
Hiking forest trails: At Morgan-Monroe State Forest, campers can access numerous hiking paths including two trails over 10 miles long. "This forest is not for large rigs, but we had no trouble fitting into our small camper. This is a great place to camp and hike," reports Don N., who stayed in a small Winnebago Micro Minnie.
What campers like
Smaller crowds: Oak Ridge Camping Area at Morgan-Monroe State Forest attracts campers looking for quieter experiences. "Even with beautiful weather and the opening of squirrel season, it was relatively light with other campers," reports Rob R., who appreciated the less crowded atmosphere compared to more popular campgrounds.
Waterside amenities: Starve Hollow State Rec Area receives praise for its waterfront sites. "We stayed in site 21 which was right on the lake. All the lake front spots seem to have a good amount lakefront footage. We probably had at least 40 feet," shares Martin M., who gave the campground five stars.
Family-friendly activities: Brown County-Nashville KOA offers excellent proximity to local attractions. "We had so much fun. We stayed in the cabins for a couple days. There is always so much to do, one day hiking the next we were shopping," says Caitlin W., noting its convenient location just minutes from downtown Nashville.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Yurt camping at Monroe Lake is typically available April through October, though availability varies by location. Most campgrounds reduce services during winter months.
Camping style options: Lake Monroe Village provides year-round camping with 182 sites. "We keep our camper here full-time. Close to Lake Monroe. Nice pool. Great people," explains Gary K., highlighting the convenience for regular visitors to the area.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds near Monroe Lake fill quickly during summer and holiday weekends, requiring advance planning. Morgan-Monroe State Forest uses a first-come, first-served system where "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," according to Rob R.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Starve Hollow State Rec Area offers family-friendly swimming options. "Great getaway for the family. We love this place and camp here 5+ times a year. It's clean and so much to do with kids," explains Bob S., highlighting the beach area and multiple playgrounds.
Holiday programming: Many campgrounds offer seasonal events for children. At Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe, "It is definitely for kids. They have a huge splash park, wading pool for toddlers, and a 4 foot pool besides tons of interactive activities for kids," reports Pamela H., who visited with family.
Age-appropriate selection: Different campgrounds cater to specific age groups. At Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe, "Nice family campground overall, but really geared toward the 8 and under crowd," notes Joe M., who found that while the splash park entertained even teen kids, the regular pool was "tiny and shallow and disappointing."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Brown County-Nashville KOA, some RV sites require preparation. "We 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," reports Joe M.
Full hookup availability: For those seeking complete RV services, Lake Monroe Village provides fully-equipped sites. "Very well kept, pleasant people. Nice location," notes Darren A., who gave the campground five stars.
Seasonal limitations: Yurt camping near Monroe Lake provides an alternative for RVers during peak seasons when hookup sites are unavailable. Hoosiers On The Ridge offers additional overflow options, with accommodations that "can accommodate tents, vans, and trailers under 12ft," according to owner Riley F.
