🌤 Weather at Morgan-Monroe State Forest by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29–73 °F | 60–84 °F | 32–78 °F | 19–41 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Martinsville 2 SW, 6 mi away, elevation 592 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Morgan-Monroe State Forest is located in Indiana in Monroe County and is managed by the Indiana DNR Division of Forestry, not by Indiana’s state park system. Spanning about 24,500 acres and established in 1929, the forest offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Indiana |
| County | Monroe County |
| Park Size | about 24,500 acres |
| Established | 1929 |
Location & Getting There
Morgan-Monroe State Forest is located Indiana. The park’s coordinates are 39.3211, -86.4133.
Things to Do
Morgan-Monroe covers about 24,500 acres of steep ridges and hardwood valleys in Morgan and Monroe counties, between Martinsville and Bloomington. Bryant Creek, Cherry and Prather lakes are open to fishing with an Indiana license, and boats are limited to electric trolling motors. Trails range from the 1-mile Tree Identification Trail to the rugged Three Lakes (9.5 miles) and Low Gap (9.8 miles) loops, and the 40-mile Tecumseh Trail continues into Yellowwood State Forest. Hunting is allowed in season, and hobby gold panning needs a free permit. Scout Ridge Campground and several trails remain closed after an EF-2 tornado on June 18, 2026, so check the DNR advisories before you go.
Best Time to Visit
The forest is open year-round, and Mason Ridge Campground stays open all year. Oak Ridge Campground closes from January 1 to March 31, and water at the campgrounds and shelters is shut off from October 31 until March. The gated Hatfield Ridge Road opens only from April 15 to May 30 and from September 1 to December 1, weather permitting.
Visitor Tips
Morgan-Monroe is a state forest run by the Indiana DNR Division of Forestry, not a state park, so the state park gate fee and annual entrance pass do not apply. Primitive camping costs a fee: register at the forest office, at the kiosk, by email or by phone (765-792-4654). Draper Cabin and Cherry Lake Lodge are rented separately, and picnic shelters are reserved through camp.IN.gov.
Explore More Indiana State Parks
Looking for state parks in Indiana? Discover them in our Best State Parks in Indiana guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Morgan-Monroe SF — about 24,500 acres of rugged, hilly terrain in south-central Indiana. The forest’s deep ravines, hardwood forest, and ridges support white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and Indiana bats (endangered). One of the largest state forests in Indiana.
Nearby Attractions
Martinsville — nearby. Morgan County — surrounding. Bloomington — 20 miles south.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Yellowwood State Forest (a short drive away) or Brown County State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
Park Location
Plan your gear for Morgan-Monroe State Forest
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
