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Morgan Monroe State Forest

The best camping in Morgan Monroe State Forest, IN

67% (3)

Discover the natural splendor of Morgan Monroe State Forest.

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Stories from the community

Charles

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

Great experience. Beautiful place. Hope to stay there again…soon. Charlie

Jessica

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

This is our second time here and my goodness, it’s perfect. My daughter loves hiking on the property and petting the horses. It has everything you NEED and the warm shelter after a rainy hike at McCormicks Creek State Park is always what we need. Can’t wait to come back again. Our little dude with Cerebral Palsy could absolutely love this property too.

Noah

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

1 night at Havendell Farm and Wayside

Easy to find, good communication, and solid flat spaces with clean bathroom

Matias Ignacio

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cera Sports Park and Campground

Quiet and beautiful place. Kids friendly. Clean bathrooms.

mike

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

My boyfriend and I stayed here for a short-notice camping trip, and we’re so glad we chose this farm. We booked the upper vista site and it was peaceful, secluded, and beautifully tucked away.. exactly what we were hoping for. Even though we arrived later than planned, Phil and Lessie were incredibly nice, welcoming, and understanding. The next morning we woke up to the sound of Highland cows and a few donkeys, which was both funny and surprisingly relaxing. We enjoyed breakfast and coffee by the fire while taking it all in. We were greeted by the owners’ sweet, friendly dogs, and later got to tour the farm. It was so much fun seeing the goats, Highland cows, donkeys, and especially watching their cattle dog proudly show off his herding skills. Lessie shared so much interesting information about the farm and the history behind the animals, you can tell she truly loves what she does. Overall our stay was amazing, peaceful, and refreshing. We’ve already planned to come back, and next time we’re bringing our kids and family. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a unique farm experience!

Matias Ignacio

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Havendell Farm and Wayside

Beautiful place yo stay. Everything clean Quiet place Easy access Nice host Would recommend 100%

Relax here! New hammock chairs, padded adirondack chairs and a sweet smokeless fire pit!

Adam

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Apple acres

Johnathan’s spot totally exceeded my expectations. This is a terrific spot for RVers, given the available hookups. I just had a roof tent, but the extra high carport kept everything from getting wet in a blow-through rainstorm, and the fire pit was a lovely way to wind down after a long day on the road. I highly recommend the breakfast add-on to get a little fuel in you. It’s nothing fancy, but it is tasty and delivered when you need it. It’s a beautiful, quiet property — wish I’d stayed longer than one night to explore the trails around the property. Also, my dog loved it.

Thane

3 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Apple acres

Great, covered spot with convenient features for a quick overnight or extended stay. Having an indoor bathroom was nice as well as a port-a-potty closeby. It was very quiet and the pond was beautiful. Friendly, accomodating host.

Juan

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Quiet and clean. Close to the state park for hikes. Very private

Jeff

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Laurita's Casa Vieja

Lots of room for our camper right next to a creek. Saw a great horned owl my first day there. Very peaceful near multiple state parks and forests. Also near the college if wanting to visit.

Annie

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Campers Campground

We had a great night at the Happy Camper Campground! Cozy small camping spot with just a couple other campers nearby. Dwight was great and super responsive and helpful. We also loved getting to know the “camp kitty”. She was so sweet.

Tiffany

October 2025

29 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Happy Campers Campground

Dwight gave us great directions to avoid the back country roads which made getting there easier than GPS was going to get us there. We enjoyed the quiet country setting at Happy Campers. Dwight was friendly and checked with us each day when we were fishing to see if we needed anything. My favorite was his kitty that seemed to greet each quest at their site as they arrived. She loved to spend time with us around the pond watching the ducks and snuggle by the fire in the evening. We definitely enjoyed her company! We will be back when the fish are biting! Thanks Dwight!

Zack

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Dirt Weapon Ranch

Great place to pitch a tent. I would go back. View was great.

Sam

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Laurita's Casa Vieja

Was visiting Bloomington for Father's weekend and needed a site that was convenient. While it was close to town it also felt like you well into the country. Butch is a very nice gentleman and super accommodating. This will definitely be my place to camp anytime I'm visiting the area!

Nikhil Kumar

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

I loved the cabin so much that we plan to come here next season as well

Rob

October 2025

35 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Apple acres

Jonathan’s place was great. Very nice site, with lots of amenities. We have a 35’ motorhome and had plenty of room for it and our toad. We were there for a wedding on property also. Jonathan and his family have an event center on the property too. While at the reception, I left the table for a bit. When I returned there was Jonathan playing tic tac toe with our son. Vice nice place ran by great people.

Zack

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Celtic Glen Farm Stay

Great tent site! Great communication with Leslie. Would go again

Russ

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Havendell Farm and Wayside

Super smooth in and out, Great rural farm setting. Perfect for a boondock night away from interstate noise or rowdy WM parking lots.

Ian

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Martin H.’s Land

Peaceful property. Easy to communicate with. Would camp here again!

eric

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Happy Campers Campground

Dwight has a beautiful place he shares with campers. We just needed a short getaway alone and got what we hoped for. It was so relaxing and peaceful and we loved watching the chickens lurking around. We recommend a stay if you're in the area.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Morgan Monroe State Forest

100%

(1)

Oak Ridge Campground

0.6mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morgan Monroe State Forest

100%

(1)

Scout Ridge Youth Tent Campground

0.4mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morgan Monroe State Forest

Mason Ridge Campground

19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Morgan Monroe State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Havendell Farm and Wayside

99%

(223)

36mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Pittsboro, IN

Since 2003 the land has been home to people, farm animals, fruit, vegetable, and flower gardens, and a children’s therapy program on horseback. Enjoy the country atmosphere in driving proximity to Indianapolis amenities. A great place for a unique getaway. Make sure and check out all of our available extras when you book your space. Guests may walk our short, wooded nature trail and mowed paths. Located just 20-30 minutes from the Indianapolis International Airport, downtown Indianapolis, the Indianapolis 500, drag racing, state parks, horseback riding, and numerous small town fairs, and farmers markets. Easy access to I-74, fuel, eating establishments, groceries, gyms, a water park, the McCloud Nature Center and B&O Rails to Trails.

Cabins at Guthrie Meadows

98%

(96)

39mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 4 sites · Lodging · Bedford, IN

Our cabins sits on 100 acres. Our cabins have AC/Heat. A dry sink are in each cabin are provided. Roast hotdogs over your private fire pit as a fire pit is just outside the cabin along with private picnic table. We have a shower bathroom house. You provide your own towel, and soap products. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash and under your control at all times. Privy's are found just outside the cabin. We have miles of hiking trails and several spring fed creeks so take your hiking boots off and wade in the clean cool water. Stars are in abundance at Guthrie Meadows so star gazing is a must!

Celtic Glen Farm Stay

98%

(53)

17mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Spencer, IN

Celtic Glen is a working, 100 acre family farm of heritage breed livestock, nestled in an old limestone quarry on the banks of the White River, on one side, and Fall Creek, on another. Lots of space between campsites and are often all to yourself. Learn about regenerative farming with rare breeds on a farm tour, or mining and wetlands restoration on an ecological history tour. Pet and feed the livestock. Fish and bird-watch. Take a yoga class (at times with goats or bunnies) in the center of the stone henge. Have coffee with goats. Eat farm craft meats, eggs, prepared soups, casseroles, and baked goods, or hop into town for a bite.We are across the river from McCormick's Creek State Park (Indiana's first state park with miles of trails, a swimming pool, and lodge) and just two miles north of Spencer, a small town with an excellent brew pub, winery, cafe, and more. Just 12 miles north of the farm is Cataract Falls State Recreation Area. We are only 20 minutes from Bloomington and Indiana University; 45 minutes from Indianapolis Int'l Airport. This is a working farm with lots of livestock, electric fences, and working dogs, so please leave the farm animals alone unless someone from the farm is available and present. Dogs must be on a leash in the camping area. given the above features of a working livestock farm, the quarry ruins, the operative railroad tracks, and the river (not suitable for swimming), family friendly (children under the age of 18 must be attended by adults at all times). *We have lots of on-farm food and supplies options, please contact us for a complete list and any requests. All sites have a private stone fire circle as well as access to a common grill, handwashing station, porta potty or septic outhouse, cold/solar water shower. *We have posted many events on our farm facebook page @celticglenllc and we are within 2-4 miles of lots of options. *Please note that the riverfront wetlands will be closed to guests during deer rifle hunting season for safety.

The Healing Hill Homestead

29mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Indianapolis, IN

This 2 acre property is located on the South Side of the city, close to public transport, 20 minutes from the airport, walking distance to all amenities and only a bus or car ride to all the major attractions. We are about 20 minutes from everywhere. We even have a Kroger Grocery Store within walking distance, an Aldi, Fresh Thyme, Meijer and Walmart within 15 minutes. There are 6 to 7 restaurants less than 2 blocks from the property. We are a working homestead. Gardens full of herbs, berries, grapes, Annual Vegetables in Season. We are working on a garden greenhouse, a 20 foot yurt with wood stove, and Chickens with Fresh Eggs laid daily (available for purchase) Owner works from home and is always a text away. There are dogs, community Cats, and a Cat Sanctuary Rescue called The Black Sheep Cat-tuary. There is plenty of parking for small RVs and Camping Vans, Cars, etc. There is fresh delicious, clean and tested well water, 2 fire pits (lots of wood available for purchase, or just pick up some sticks around the property from the shade trees) There is a creek for wading in, lots of cats to love on, and places for hammocks, Electric outlets available to charge a cell phone, or other devices, and a simple compost toilet. If you are out of something just ask the owner or the dweller of the tiny house, we will share with you what we have. Momma Sycamore and our Weeping Willow offer a place of peace and quiet. More pictures are coming, we will have updates as they occur. Thanks for stopping by.

Happy Campers Campground

99%

(191)

34mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Brazil, IN

We look forward to hosting you at Happy Campers Campground! We have 5 full hook up RV sites 50 and 30 amp, free wifi, fishing, swimming and an 1.5 acre pond. Our property also has fire rings and picnic tables available for our campers. We have a dry cabin also available. We have trash bens available. Seasonal shower house and porta pottys. Please specify RV or tent site when you are booking! Open now.

Dirt Weapon Ranch

98%

(41)

13mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Gosport, IN

Come and enjoy our private 90-acre retreat, perfect for any outdoor enthusiast. Nestled in an arch of the White River, this secluded sanctuary boasts two private lakes, offering opportunities for swimming, hiking, fishing, and relaxation. Conveniently located within a short driving distance to Indy, Bloomington, and Southern Indiana, you'll find yourself immersed in nature while still having access to nearby urban amenities. We offer five powered campsites and numerous options for primitive camping lakeside or riverside. Please note that there are no direct water hookups, so be sure to bring your own water for your stay.

Apple acres

99%

(126)

23mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Clayton, IN

My Great great grandfather purchased the land in 1834, I am the 5th generation on this farm. Areas first apple orchard started in 1910-1990 now a wedding venue with beautiful scenery. The retired apple orchard still has trees with vast walking trails between the rows. Amazing wildlife! Vast walking trails that are kept mowed. Fishing pond available (with prior permission) pet friendly property for responsible owners that clean up afterword. 2 Bathroom options! One with running water only a 2min walk or use a new port-a-pot with attached sink very close to the shelter. Enjoy - Breeo smokless firepit, two Adirondack chairs, two hammock chairs, 8ft epoxy coated picknick table. Fast Wi-Fi at this spot! R/C and non motorized bike dirt track available to use. Berms, high bank turns and whoops! dogs love them too. Local attractions - Brew links brewing = 3 min drive, Splash Island water park = 5 min drive, Indianapolis Motor Speedway = 35 min drive, Hendricks Live Music Center - 7 Min drive More local info, check out this link! https://www.visithendrickscounty.com/trip-planning/regions/plainfield/ No chickens on or near property, so go ahead and sleep in...

H.E.R. LIVING CAMPUS

99%

(36)

34mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Indianapolis, IN

H.E.R. stands for Honor, Educate, and Restore. As avid campers who have enjoyed the beauty of nature by camping all across America, we are happy to share the joys of camping with others. We do this in the solid spirit of Honoring our Ancestors, Educating our children, and Restoring the spirit of family. We share these values with every visitor to H.E.R. Living Campus. We hope to share these values with you.

Overland Camping at The 1938 Barn

95%

(69)

45mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Rockville, IN

Large secluded cove near our barn and garden. Watch the sun come up from the orchard. There is 1 electrical plug so not all 3 spaces have electric but you can run a cord. There is also a single water spigot to share as well. There are 2 houses somewhat visible through the trees but no direct line of sight and otherwise private. We have 2 dogs, Whiskey and Barb, Whiskey will usually keep her space but bark, if you ignore her she will be friendly, acts mean but never bites. Barbara is a Jack Russell. She will jump in the truck if you don't tell her not to and will happily run off with snacks. We ask you please don't feed them as it will teach them to come for food and some people don't appreciate the dogs.. This is a farm so you may see and smell animals. Depending on when you book you may even be somewhat near animals. Be aware of this and be ready to keep dogs contained. We typically run pigs in the woods around the cove but we move them regularly and keep the smell to a minimum by doing so.

Basic Acres

100%

(23)

24mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Clayton, IN

Located at a wedding venue, brick and mortar bathrooms just steps away and beautiful views by our pond. We are opening up our grass parking lot for tent camping, limited drop cords available for power. Class A, B and C motorhomes welcome with a 30A service. Potable water available upon request. See host for camping around the pond area or areas outside the parking lot posted in the picture. Local Brewery located 4 min down the road with awesome food and delicious beverages! Hendricks Live Music Center - 7 Min away! Splash Island Indoor/Outdoor pool (A must with kids) 5 Min away DQ and Oasis Diner - 6 Min away Weather permitting - Communal fire pit area. Fishing is available so bring your pole. 20 Acres of walking trails, pets welcome on a leash (we have ducks on the pod at times) More local hotspots check out this link! https://www.visithendrickscounty.com/trip-planning/regions/plainfield/ No chickens on or near the property so go ahead and sleep in...

Persimmon Honey Hollow

93%

(23)

48mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · West Baden Springs, IN

Cozy ramshackle farmstead in the Hoosier Hills offer a chance to get up close and personal with the land, through camping, and hiking through the woods. Not only is Hoosier National Forest located both to the north and south for hiking and trail riding, but just 3 miles away is the Rise of Lost River at Orangeville, a natural landmark. Spring Mill State park is located about 20 minutes away in Mitchell, IN, while Patoka Lake is about 15 minutes south of nearby French Lick. For those interested in farmers' markets, Orange County Homegrown markets run Saturday at Orleans(10 miles away) from 8am-noon, and in French Lick 7 miles) from 4-8pm.

Nightfall Farm

100%

(74)

50mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Crothersville, IN

We're bringing my family farm back to life. My parents farmed here until the 1980's, but couldn't make a profit with corn and soybeans. My husband, Nate, and I moved home in 2014, and started turning the fields into pastures. Today, we run Nightfall Farm, raise animals with respect, and sell pasture-raised meat locally. Come wander the 125 acres of woods, wetlands, and farm. Check out the animals in our pastures, and walk along the Muscatatuck River. Enjoy a quiet fire. Hear the roar of frogs calling in Spring. Chase fireflies. Behold a family farm coming back to life.

The best camping in Morgan Monroe State Forest, IN guide

Overview

About

When you get down to Morgan-Monroe State Forest, you may feel like you've hit the jackpot. Not only does it have 24,000 acres of wilderness to explore, three lakes to fish and boat on, camping options, as well as two historic cabins to hunker down in, but you can also pan for gold! With a (free) permit, you are able to hunt for the golden nugget of your dreams, which is way more fun than playing the boring old lottery. If you don’t strike it rich then you can realign your focus and feel rich with natureful abundance on one of the trails. For the truly adventurous, try backcountry camping where you can really get away from it all.

Notable campgrounds

Mason Ridge Campground: Offers a rustic camping experience with vault toilets and seasonal drinking water, nestled behind a historic fire tower.
Scout Ridge Youth Tent Campground: Ideal for groups and scouts, featuring larger sites with multiple picnic tables and grills amid a nature preserve.
Backcountry Camping: For the true adventurer, backcountry camping allows for a deeper connection with nature, following a minimal-impact ethos.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak seasons, to ensure your spot at one of Morgan Monroe's coveted campgrounds.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies and check back regularly for newly available sites.
Explore nearby camping options if your preferred campground is full, as the forest offers multiple camping experiences.

When to go

The best time to visit Morgan Monroe State Forest is from April to October, when all campgrounds are open and the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities. Winter months can be serene but come with limited amenities and certain campground closures, so plan accordingly.

Know before you go

Check for any advisories or road closures before your visit, especially for seasonal access roads like Hatfield Ridge Road.
Remember to register for camping, as it's required whether you're at a campground or in the backcountry.
Prepare for a carry-in, carry-out trash policy to help preserve the forest's natural state.
Be aware of hunting seasons and wear bright clothing if hiking during these times for safety.
Gold panning is permitted with a free permit from the Forest Office, adding a unique activity to your visit.

67%

3 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· August 2025

Tent · With kids ·

Scout Ridge Youth Tent Campground

Always a great place to camp. Whether it’s a weekend, long weekend, or a week it never seems to disappoint. The rangers are always friendly, helpful, and often advise if needed. The nearby trails have something to offer for hikers of all skill levels. We encourage everyone we know to come experience and explore here every chance we get.

Matt K.

1 year on Hipcamp