Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Pine Grove State Recreation Area

Bloomington, IN · Boat Ramp · Public

Pine Grove State Recreation Area is a public boat ramp on Monroe Lake near Bloomington, Indiana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Lake Permit Required

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Launch into Monroe Lake near Bloomington, Indiana. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Pine Grove State Recreation Area is a public access point on Monroe Lake in Indiana, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Pine Grove State Recreation Area sits about 10 min from Bloomington, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Pine Grove State Recreation Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Pine Grove State Recreation Area?
Pine Grove State Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Indiana. The entrance fee is Lake Permit Required.
What activities are available at Pine Grove State Recreation Area?
Pine Grove State Recreation Area supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Pine Grove State Recreation Area?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Pine Grove State Recreation Area?
The best time to paddle at Pine Grove State Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Pine Grove State Recreation Area?
Water conditions at Pine Grove State Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.
Is Pine Grove State Recreation Area good for beginners?
Yes, Pine Grove State Recreation Area is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 39.1070, -86.3987

Quick Facts

State
Indiana
Region
Midwest
Getting There
~10 min from Bloomington
Get Directions

39.1070, -86.3987

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