Martinsville is located about 27 miles southwest of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana and about 18 miles northeast of Bloomington, Indiana. The population of Martinsville in 2024 is approximately 11,792 people.
For those yearning for an authentic outdoor experience, Martinsville serves as a gateway to the serene and expansive Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Here, adventurers can engage with the wilderness through primitive tent campsites or choose a charming, rustic cabin known as Draper Cabin. In addition, there is the Cherry Lake Lodge that accommodates up to 6 people with several modern conveniences, set amidst a landscape brimming with natural beauty and tranquility.
While RV hookups are not available, the allure of reconnecting with nature in a more traditional camping setting is undeniable. This state forest is not just another camping destination; it offers a unique opportunity for gold enthusiasts to try their hand at panning for gold, with the only requirement being a free permit from the state forest management. This activity adds an exciting dimension to your camping adventure, blending the thrill of discovery with the peace and simplicity of life outdoors.
Surrounded by the rich biodiversity of Indiana’s forests, campers can also enjoy a plethora of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and the quiet beauty of untouched nature.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or looking to explore the outdoors from a new perspective, this state forest invites you on a journey through Indiana’s vibrant wilderness.
CLICK HERE for the location of Martinsville
or CLICK the map image below.
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CLICK THE MAP IMAGE above for the location of the Morgan-Monroe State Forest and campground photos.
PLEASE NOTE: The listings below were accurate from an earlier time, but likely do not reflect all the amenities offered at this campground. Many campground facilities add or remove campsites and amenities over time. We strongly recommend you visit the DNR website at the Morgan-Monroe State Forest for all information, complete details and much more.
| Tent Camping |
 x29 Primitive Sites |
| Other |
| xBoat RampsxxFire RingsxxGrillsxNature PreservexxPets WelcomexPicnic AreasxxPicnic SheltersxPicnic TablesxxPit ToiletsxWater Spigots |
| Rentals |
| xCabin and Lodge |
| Things To Do |
| xBicyclingxBoating w/Electric xxTrolling Motor Only xChildren’s PlaygroundxxFishing*xGold Panning**xxHiking Trails |
| Special Info |
| * – Fishing – Requires State License. |
| ** – Gold Panning – Requires Free Permit |
| Swimming is Strictly Prohibited in Lakes |
 of the Morgan-Monroe State Forest. |
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WATCH VIDEO of the Morgan-Monroe State Forest. |
This state forest is for primitive camping only. There are no hook-ups for RVs.
CLICK WEATHER IMAGE for Extended 7-day
Weather Forecast In Martinsville. 
Nearby Eats & Other Fixins’
| Gatti’s Pizza |  |
| Indy’s Family Restaurant |  |
| Sgt. Pepper’s Chicken | |
| Beefcake Burgers | |
| Bynum’s Steakhouse | |
Nearby Attractions
| Cedar Creek Winery & Brew Co. |
|
| Jimmy Nash City Park | |
| Draper Cabin | |
| Martinsville Golf Club | |
Also, we list 12 additional campgrounds within a 25-mile radius of Martinsville. All mileage numbers shown below are approximate.
The campgrounds are as follows:
Bill Monroe Music Park & Campground
– 15 miles
Bean Blossom, Indiana
Yellowwood State Forest**
– 17 miles
Nashville, Indiana
**This state forest is for primitive camping only. There are no hook-ups for RVs.
The Retreat at Hickory Hills
– 18 miles
Quincy, Indiana
McCormick’s Creek State Park
– 18 miles
Spencer, Indiana
Indy Lakes
– 19 miles
Indianapolis, Indiana
Brown County State Park
– 20 miles
Nashville, Indiana
Brown County/Nashville KOA Holiday
– 20 miles
Nashville, Indiana
Lake Haven Retreat
– 21 miles
Indianapolis, Indiana
Friends O’ Mine Campground and Cabins
– 22 miles
Nashville, Indiana
Monroe Lake
– 23 miles
Bloomington, Indiana
eXplore Brown County
– 23 miles
Nashville, Indiana
Owen-Putnam State Forest**
– 24 miles
Spencer, Indiana
**This state forest is for primitive camping only. There are no hook-ups for RVs.