Lake Monroe

Lake Monroe is Indiana's largest reservoir, created in the 1960s by damming Salt Creek south of Bloomington. The resulting lake stretches about 10 miles long with 150 miles of shoreline, surrounded by second-growth forest and Hoosier National Forest land. It is the primary outdoor recreation destination for Bloomington residents and serves as the city's water supply.

The lake has two developed beach areas with swimming in summer, multiple boat ramps, and a marina at the western end. Houseboats and pontoon boats can be rented. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on the quieter eastern arms of the lake. The surrounding forest has hiking and mountain biking trails, including several that connect to the longer Indiana State Forest system.

Crappie, bass, and catfish fishing are the main draws for anglers. The autumn foliage around the lake's edges is among the best viewing in Indiana.

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A story
Lake Monroe was created between 1960 and 1965 by damming Salt Creek, which required the relocation of three entire communities — Elkinsville, Aiken, and Sherwood — and the abandonment of hundreds of farms and homesteads. The town of Elkinsville was the largest, with a school, a church, and about 60 families. Aerial photographs taken just before the flooding show the empty town with its streets still in place, waiting to go underwater.

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