- 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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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Morgan Monroe State Forest
Kerr creek
Kerr creek
100%
(20)
11mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 1 site · RV
Learn more about this land:Level field next to Kerr creek for camping next to your car. Multiple wooded sites on hills next to State Forrest if you willing to hike. Close to Yellowwood and Brown County State Forrests.
Pets
from
$26
/ night
Dirt Weapon Ranch
Dirt Weapon Ranch
98%
(41)
13mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
Laurita's Casa Vieja
Laurita's Casa Vieja
98%
(41)
15mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
The farm is located 15 minutes west of Indiana Universities Memorial Stadium. The property is nice and private. The farm adjoins the 75 acre Stranger Hills Organic farm, the oldest organic farm in Indiana. Our 1899 Farmhouse is the only residence on the entire farm. There is a 3000 acre farm to our south. The area is quiet and very private. The campsites are in a grassy walnut grove by a small creek that runs along the eastern border of the property. We have a white deer creek cabin tent on a platform there and 3 or 4 nice level campsites to the north. There is a shaded RV site at the top of a small hill with 30 amp service. We can accommodate a large RV on packed gravel with 50 amp service. the farm is located 15 minutes east of McCormicks Creek State Park. There is a composting toilet and an on demand hot shower in a small building adjacent to the campsites. There is a YMCA about five minutes East of the property. We now have a no dog policy. I haven’t been able to change it on the site.
\\\
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
All Stars Acres
All Stars Acres
100%
(13)
17mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Rural Tranquility! Country camping on the outskirts of the city. Winery and Local Restaurants nearby! Banta Indiana, between Indianapolis and Bloomington IN.
Farm field views to take a scenic drive. Campfires and open sky’s at night to view the stars without the sound of city traffic.
Access to Mallow Run Winery 3miles, with shuttle service. Nearby restaurants in Bargersville Indiana. (Breakfast available upon request.)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$55
/ night
Celtic Glen Farm Stay
Celtic Glen Farm Stay
98%
(53)
17mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Skyview Meadow At Spencer Pay Lake
Skyview Meadow At Spencer Pay Lake
100%
(13)
17mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 85 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the beauty of nature at this charming location, brimming with life. Nestled beside a renowned, well-stocked fishing lake, the site is surrounded by picturesque hay fields and enchanting woods. It's the perfect spot to witness the upcoming eclipse on April 8th. Conveniently located off a US Highway, the property offers easy turnarounds for RVs and Semis. Only 2 miles away from McCormick's Creek State Park, guests can enjoy the proximity to outdoor activities.
Small tents are welcome with the purchase of a 12-hour fishing pass, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Additionally, The Hilltop Restaurant, just next door, offers delectable options ranging from steaks and ribs to fantastic pizza. Indulge in a memorable stay surrounded by nature and convenient amenities.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$30
/ night
Nayture's Hilltop Farm
Nayture's Hilltop Farm
100%
(129)
21mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful wooded 36 acre property in Brown County; 2 large fishing ponds, each with a dock; paddle boat available for use; 1+ mile hiking trail around property; 9-hole Frisbee Golf Course; water spicket available; outhouse available. 9 miles to Brown County State Park North Gate; 4.8 miles to historic Story Inn; 12 miles to downtown Nashville.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Neighbor Acres
Neighbor Acres
100%
(20)
23mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 1 site · RV
Located next to Apple Acres, this spot is next to the property owners dwelling, large gravel pad with a mild slope. This spot is designed for Camper vans or trailers less than 30ft long, wide enough to park along side.
Full hook up at this spot, however running water is not available Dec-March. Potable water available upon request.
Portable restroom 50ft away open year round. Regular bathrooms are available Dec-March only a 2 min walk. No showers.
3" Grade, see pictures.
This spot has no perks like a firepit, but has a picnic table and a trash can. Walking trails, pets welcome and a beautiful pond nearby.
Free Wi-Fi at this spot!
Splash Island water park is only a 5 Min drive!
Hendricks Live Music Center - 7 Min Drive!
Brew Link Brew Pub - 3 Min drive
Pets
Full hookups
from
$49
/ night
Apple acres
Apple acres
99%
(127)
23mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
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...
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Basic Acres
Basic Acres
100%
(23)
24mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
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...
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Cedar Trail
Cedar Trail
96%
(23)
25mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our charming rural RV campsite!
Grocery store & dining are 10 minutes away from the site.
Gas station & interstate are 6 minutes from the site.
Hiking is 8 minutes from the site.
We offer two back-in spaces available—one to the west and one to the east of a new barn, ready for you to back in.
With 50 and 30 amp hookups and serene surroundings, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature's beauty.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
The Timbercrest Ranch
The Timbercrest Ranch
98%
(25)
26mi from Morgan Monroe State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
The land consists of: 100 acres of forest, pastures, four ponds, orchards, hoop house, pavilion area with grill, 150-year-old tobacco barn, gardens, chickens, guineas, turkeys, quail, bees, kune kune pigs and wagyu cattle, stocked pond on absolutely gorgeous rolling hills. The land will take your breathe away.
Learn more about this land:
Several trails with lots of opportunities to see nature, particularly wild turkey's and deer and the local bison farm.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$65
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Aidan
3 days ago
20 ft campervan
Nice and quiet, easy to find, close enough to town. Toilet was clean
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c
charlie
1 week ago
30 ft travel trailer
This is a great parking spot for the night.the host greeted me when I pulled in. It's very easy back in. The site is very level.I will for sure stay there again. Thanks for the hospitality Jonathan.
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H
Harrington
3 weeks ago
24 ft toy hauler
With pets
Their location is rural and quiet. They use their animals to help benefit children with developmental issues, quite an amazing and beautiful calling!
You won’t be sorry should you be in need of a place camp or RV for a bit! The nights are beautiful out there too! We ended up staying on longer than expected. Kool fact, while I didn’t think him cocky, waking to a rooster in the morning is actually really cool:))
It was super cold for most of the night we were there but Dave and Tara were gracious and kind and shared some flannel blankets to help keep lab River warm. Filled my heart with joy to be welcomed so.
So grateful to have met them and found their wonderful location!! Added additional days as needed and they made everything wonderful!
ML for these kind folks
God has blessed them
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H
Harrington
December 2025
25 ft toy hauler
With pets
Their location is rural and quiet. They use their animals to help benefit children with developmental issues, quite an amazing and beautiful calling!
You won’t be sorry should you be in need of a place camp or RV for a bit! The nights are beautiful out there too! We ended up staying on longer than expected. Kool fact, while I didn’t think him cocky, waking to a rooster in the morning is actually really cool:))
It was super cold and snowy for the night we were there camping but Dave and Tara went out of their way to provide a drop cord for us so we could have power to our heater!
Much needed as the outside temp felt like -24!
So grateful to have met them and found their wonderful location!!
Thank you for having us.
ML for these kind folks you will be glad you chose to stay:)
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C
Charles
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Cabins at Guthrie Meadows
Great experience. Beautiful place. Hope to stay there again…soon.
Charlie
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Jessica
November 2025
With kids
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.
See moreN
Noah
November 2025
16 ft car
Easy to find, good communication, and solid flat spaces with clean bathroom
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m
mike
November 2025
Tent
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!
See moreM
Matias Ignacio
November 2025
19 ft campervan
With pets
Beautiful place yo stay.
Everything clean
Quiet place
Easy access
Nice host
Would recommend 100%
See moreA
Adam
November 2025
Tent
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.
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Thane
November 2025
22 ft campervan
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.
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J
Juan
November 2025
Tent
Quiet and clean. Close to the state park for hikes. Very private
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J
Jeff
November 2025
20 ft travel trailer
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.
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A
Annie
October 2025
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
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Tiffany
October 2025
29 ft Class C
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!
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Z
Zack
October 2025
Tent
Great place to pitch a tent. I would go back. View was great.
See moreS
Sam
October 2025
12 ft travel trailer
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!
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Jon
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Great little spot just outside of Indy. You aren’t too far from the property owner’s house and horses (which were cool to see by the way) but the way the pond sits, there’s overgrowth and trees that hides the view of all of that. This campsite felt very private. It was quiet and relaxing which is exactly what we wanted. I would 100% recommend this Hipcamp site to anyone that is looking at it.
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N
Nikhil Kumar
October 2025
Group trip
I loved the cabin so much that we plan to come here next season as well
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Rob
October 2025
35 ft Class C
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.
See moreThe 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.
M
Matt K.
1 year on Hipcamp