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If you prefer, skip the city info below and

Bloomington is located about 51 miles southwest of downtown Indianapolis, and about 12 miles west of Nashville. The population of Bloomington in 2016 was estimated at 84,067 people.
The main campus of Indiana University is located in Bloomington. This university has many noted former students and graduates, such as David Anspaugh (movie producer and director), Dick Enberg (American sportscaster), Kevin Kline (actor), Lee Majors (actor), Hoosier Jane Pauley (TV broadcaster) and many others.
The city was the location of the 1979 movie “Breaking Away“. Bloomington is a “treasure house” for structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Bloomington is the birthplace of the famous composer Hoagy Carmichael, the rocker David Lee Roth of Van Halen and many other notables. More information about Bloomington can be found at Wikipedia by CLICKING HERE.
CLICK HERE for the location of Bloomington
or CLICK the map image below.
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Camping Links In Bloomington
#AD DriveSmart 65, Built-In Voice-Controlled GPS Navigator with 6.95” High-Res Display |
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CLICK THE MAP IMAGE above for the location of Monroe Lake, campground photos and Google reviews. Average Google review rating was 4.7 out of 5 as of 05/01/22.
RV Camping |
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Tent Camping |
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Other |
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Rentals |
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Things To Do |
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Special Info |
* – Picnic Shelters – Contact DNR facility regarding the probability of Rental Fees. |
** – Fishing – Requires State License. |
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WATCH VIDEO of the Paynetown State Recreation Area. |
PLEASE NOTE: The listings above are accurate as of 08/17/19, but do not reflect all the amenities offered at this campground. Also, many campground facilities add or remove campsites and amenities over time. We strongly recommend you visit the DNR website at Monroe Lake by CLICKING HERE for all information, complete details and much more.
Monroe Lake is a 10,750 acre lake constructed in the 60’s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It’s primary purpose was to provide flood control in that area and a reliable water source for the city of Bloomington.
The total land area consists of nearly 24,000 acres, including Monroe Lake, and is under the management by both the Indiana DNR and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This land includes the Paynetown SRA, Allen’s Creek SRA, Cutright SRA, Fairfax SRA, Moore’s Creek SRA, Pine Grove SRA, Salt Creek SRA, and the Crooked Creek SRA.
For many living inside and outside of Indiana, Monroe Lake is considered a top destination for camping and water activities. The sheer size and the numerous rental offerings attracts people of all ages and outdoor interests.
All camping activities take place at the Paynetown State Recreation Area.
CLICK HERE to make reservations for the
campgrounds at Monroe Lake (Paynetown SRA).
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CLICK THE MAP IMAGE above for the location of the Charles C. Deam Wilderness, campground photos and Google reviews. Average Google review rating was 4.8 out of 5 as of 05/01/22.
The Charles C. Deam Wilderness is contained within the 202,814 acres of the Hoosier National Forest. The wilderness itself encompasses approximately 13,000 acres. It is located just 8 miles southeast of the Bloomington city boundaries.
This wilderness area is preserved for those looking to escape from the modern world and it’s offerings. It is strictly primitive in nature and relished by those who enjoy tent camping and seclusion. All wheeled transportation is prohibited in this area, including bicycles.
Visit the website link above for more details.
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Jellystone Park at Lake Monroe
CLICK THE MAP IMAGE above for the location of Jellystone Park at Lake Monroe, campground photos and Google reviews. Average Google review rating was 4.5 out of 5 as of 05/01/22.
CLICK IMAGE for Extended 7-day Weather Forecast In Bloomington. ![]() |
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Other campgrounds within 51 miles of…..
Paynetown State Recreation Area…..CLICK HERE
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Nearby Eats & Other Fixin’s
Aver’s Pizza | ![]() |
Big Woods Bloomington | ![]() |
BuffaLouie’s | ![]() |
Cabin Restaurant & Lounge | ![]() |
Grecco’s Pizza Bedford | ![]() |
Nearby Attractions
AMC Showplace Bloomington 12 | ![]() |
Cedar Bluffs Nature Preserve | ![]() |
Classic Bowling Lanes | ![]() |
Kirkwood Observatory | ![]() |
Leonard Springs Nature Park | ![]() |