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Hardin Ridge Recreation Area
About Hardin Ridge
Hardin Ridge Recreation Area sits on the wooded shores of Monroe Lake — Indiana's largest man-made lake at 10,750 acres. Located within the Hoosier National Forest in Monroe County, this premier recreation area offers over 200 campsites across multiple loops, a swimming beach, an accessible boat dock and ramp, and more than 12 miles of hiking trails through rolling hardwood forest.
Monroe Lake is a haven for fishing, boating, and water sports. The lake supports healthy populations of largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, crappie, and walleye. The accessible boat dock and ramp make launching easy, whether you're heading out for a day of fishing or a leisurely cruise across Indiana's largest lake.
From the sandy swimming beach to shelter houses with Monroe Lake views, carry-in campsites tucked into the forest, and modern bath house facilities, Hardin Ridge provides a well-rounded outdoor experience for families, anglers, hikers, and anyone seeking a retreat into southern Indiana's beautiful landscape.
Hoosier National Forest
Hardin Ridge is nestled within the Hoosier National Forest, which covers over 200,000 acres of southern Indiana's hill country. The forest's rolling terrain, carved by ancient rivers and glacial meltwater, creates a varied landscape of ridgetops, ravines, and lake shoreline that supports exceptional biodiversity and year-round recreation opportunities.
Things to Do
- Hiking & Trail Walking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Boating & Kayaking
- Camping (Electric & Primitive)
- Carry-In Tent Camping
- Wildlife Watching
- Picnicking
- Group Gatherings
- Nature Photography
Ready to Visit?
Reserve your campsite or cabin at Hardin Ridge Recreation Area on the shores of Indiana's largest lake.
Reserve on Recreation.govFacilities
Hardin Ridge offers well-maintained facilities on the shores of Monroe Lake, from spacious campsites and an accessible boat ramp to shelter houses and modern bath houses.
Campsites
200+ campsites spread across multiple loops, including electric and non-electric sites as well as carry-in tent sites for a more primitive experience in the Hoosier National Forest.
Accessible Boat Dock & Ramp
A fully accessible boat dock and ramp provide easy launching into Monroe Lake, whether you are trailering a fishing boat, dropping in a kayak, or heading out on a pontoon cruise.
Shelter Houses
Shelter houses with views of Monroe Lake are available for group gatherings, family reunions, picnics, and special events within the recreation area.
Restroom & Bath House
Modern restroom and bath house facilities with showers and changing areas are conveniently located throughout the campground loops.
Activities
With 10,750 acres of lake, 12+ miles of trails, and the forests of the Hoosier National Forest, Hardin Ridge provides year-round recreation for every interest.
Hiking
Over 12 miles of trails wind through the rolling hardwood forests of the Hoosier National Forest, from interpretive nature walks to longer woodland treks.
Fishing
Monroe Lake supports excellent populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, crappie, and walleye. Cast from shore or launch from the boat ramp.
Swimming
The sandy swimming beach on Monroe Lake is one of the most popular features at Hardin Ridge, offering a safe and inviting place for families to cool off all summer long.
Boating
Explore 10,750 acres of Monroe Lake by canoe, kayak, pontoon, or motorboat. The accessible boat dock and ramp make launching easy for watercraft of all sizes.
Wildlife Watching
The forests and shoreline of Monroe Lake attract white-tailed deer, wild turkey, bald eagles, great blue herons, and a rich variety of songbirds throughout the year.
Camping
From full-hookup electric sites to primitive carry-in tent camping, Hardin Ridge offers 200+ campsites across multiple loops to suit every style of outdoor stay.
Photo Gallery
Experience Indiana's Largest Lake
200+ campsites, a swimming beach, accessible boat ramp, and 12+ miles of trails on the shores of Monroe Lake. Hardin Ridge Recreation Area is southern Indiana's premier outdoor destination.