BLOOMINGTON — Monroe Lake has unveiled a lineup of summer outdoor programming designed to help community members explore the lake’s diverse ecosystems and build new outdoor skills. From guided plant identification walks to beginner-friendly and advanced paddling trips, a variety of activities are scheduled through July.
Due to recent high water levels on the reservoir, organizers note that dates and locations are subject to change. Participants are encouraged to monitor the property’s online calendar for real-time updates.
Flora Field Days: Master the Art of Plant Identification
For those looking to sharpen their plant identification skills, Monroe Lake naturalists are hosting Flora Field Days. These hands-on sessions focus on the proper use and application of an identification key, which opens the door to identifying thousands of plant species.
The program caters to all skill levels. Naturalists will tailor instruction to each individual attendee, making it a great learning opportunity for complete beginners, as well as a fun practice session for experienced enthusiasts looking to add new blooms to their life lists.
Schedule and Registration
Flora Field Days are offered during the first week of each month from May through October. The sessions are free to attend, though standard park entrance fees may apply depending on the location. Advanced registration is required so the naturalist can email meeting directions and specific event details.
- Wednesday, July 1 at 9:00 a.m. – Allens Creek SRA (Register by June 29)
- Wednesday, Aug. 5 at 9:00 a.m. – Moores Creek SRA (Register by Aug. 3)
- Note: Additional dates and locations remain tentative.
Sign up for all flora sessions at: tinyurl.com/florafielddays
Beginner Kayaking Workshops: Learn the Basics
Kayaking provides a unique opportunity to reach quiet bays and backwater areas that are otherwise inaccessible. To help newcomers safely enjoy the water, Monroe Lake is hosting 2.5-hour Beginner Kayaking Workshops at Cutright SRA.
Specifically designed for individuals with zero or very little paddling experience, the workshops cover basic paddling techniques and water safety skills. Each session concludes with supervised practice time in a calm, quiet water area.
Details and Requirements
The registration fee is $20 per person, and classes are strictly limited to nine participants. For safety reasons regarding equipment restrictions, all participants must be at least 10 years old and weigh no more than 275 pounds. Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are provided and included in the fee; participants are asked not to bring their own gear.
Available dates and open roster spots include:
- Sunday, June 28 at 9:30 a.m.(Register by June 25) – 2 spots open
- Sunday, July 12 at 9:30 a.m.(Register by July 9) – 8 spots open
- Thursday, July 16 at 9:30 a.m.(Register by July 13) – 5 spots open
- Tuesday, July 21 at 9:30 a.m.(Register by July 17) – 9 spots open
Explore Monroe Paddling Trips: Guided Backwater Tours
For paddlers looking to experience the quieter side of the reservoir, the Explore Monroe Paddling Trips offer 2-hour guided journeys through local wetlands, slow-moving streams, and hidden bays. These excursions highlight scenic views, native wildlife, aquatic plants, and distinct regional landmarks.
Trips cost $15 per person, and registration is limited to 10 people per session (ages 16+). Participants have the option to bring their own kayak or rent one from the property for an additional $20. Because these trips explore more advanced terrain, all participants must possess at least 2 hours of prior paddling experience or have completed one of Monroe Lake’s Beginner Kayaking Workshops.
Available dates and open roster spots include:
- Tuesday, June 23 at 7:00 p.m. – Crooked Creek SRA (Register by June 19)
- Status: FULL (Waitlist available at registration link)
- Link: tinyurl.com/kayak-06-23-2026
- Sunday, July 12 at 7:00 p.m. – Pinegrove SRA (Register by July 9) – 6 spots open
- Tuesday, July 21 at 7:00 p.m. – Paynetown SRA (Register by July 17) – 8 spots open
Additional dates and launch locations for both kayaking programs remain tentative pending water conditions.
