High Water Forces Closures at Monroe Lake as August Programs Continue

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — July 23, 2025 — Elevated water levels at Monroe Lake are impacting access to popular recreation areas just as the lake enters a busy August schedule of nature programs, kayaking workshops, and educational events.

According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the reservoir is currently more than 10.5 feet above its normal pool. The high water has forced the closure of beaches at Paynetown and Fairfax, the main boat ramp at Cutright (though a high-water ramp is available), several shelters, campsites, and key sections of popular hiking trails.

The access road to the Paynetown Activity Center remains underwater, though some programs are still being held at alternate locations.

Some shelters and trails remain open, as do privately operated marinas. The Paynetown state-run marina is open but operating without gas service. Fishing piers at both Paynetown and Cutright SRAs are currently inaccessible.

Upcoming Programs and Events

Despite the flooding, Monroe Lake’s late summer schedule remains full. Notable events include:

• Beginner Kayaking Workshops on Aug. 10 and Aug. 29. Designed for those new to paddling, these 2.5-hour sessions include equipment and instruction for $20 per person. Only 9 spots are available per session.
• Explore Monroe Guided Paddling Trips, offering scenic excursions through the lake’s quieter waterways. The next two trips (Aug. 10 and Aug. 24) are full, but later dates in September and October still have availability.
• Flora Field Days return on Aug. 8 at Cutright SRA, offering hands-on practice with wildflower identification. Additional dates follow in September and October.
• History Presentation, Aug. 11 at 7 p.m., titled “The Mormons Come to the Salt Creek Valley.” Naturalist Jill Vance will speak at the Lawrence County Museum of History in Bedford about the history of LDS missionaries in south-central Indiana.
• Virtual Programs on Monroe Lake’s Facebook page include “Crinoids: False Flowers of the Ocean” (live July 24 at 10 a.m.) and “Freshwater Bryozoans” (Aug. 22 at 1:30 p.m.).

Visitors can check bit.ly/monroelakecalendar for updates, or visit on.IN.gov/monroelake for general information and water level alerts. Follow @monroelake on Facebook for real-time updates.

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