BLOOMINGTON — High water levels at Monroe Lake continue to impact recreational facilities, keeping swimming beaches closed, delaying a nature center opening, and shifting boat ramp operations as the reservoir fulfills its primary mission.
Monroe Lake is a flood control reservoir built specifically to hold excess water and minimize flooding impacts on downstream homes, businesses, and farms. During periods of high water, fulfilling this crucial safety purpose sometimes results in reduced access to backwater areas and recreational facilities.
While the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has begun releasing water through the dam, the lake’s level has not yet dropped below 549 feet. The normal pool level for the reservoir is 538 feet.
Beach Closures and Facility Impacts
Due to the elevated water levels, the swimming beaches at both Paynetown and Fairfax State Recreation Areas (SRAs) are completely underwater and remain closed. Officials currently expect these beaches to stay closed into early July.
Additionally, the main boat ramp at Cutright SRA is closed. Boaters looking to use the area can utilize the high-water ramp, which remains available as an alternative. Further updates and facility impacts are being posted regularly on the property’s official Facebook page.
Delayed Opening for Paynetown Activity Center
The Paynetown Activity Center normally opens for the season on Memorial Day Weekend; however, high water over the access road has delayed its opening. Water level permitting, officials hope to open the center for the season by the Fourth of July weekend.
Once open, visitors can drop by Thursday through Sunday between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to make a craft, enjoy the kids’ play area, visit live snakes, work on a puzzle, peruse the library, or talk to a naturalist.
Summer Activity Schedules and Modifications
Monroe Lake typically offers 10 to 12 activities every week during the summer months. The full summer schedule is now posted through July 31 on the property’s online calendar.
Because program times and locations must sometimes be modified due to high water impacts, visitors are highly recommended to check the online calendar for updates a couple of days before their visit.
Lake Open for Boating and Business
Despite the high water, Monroe Lake remains open for boating. Several privately owned and operated businesses on the water also remain fully open for visitors, including:
- Two Herons Marina
- Lake Monroe Boat Rental
- Lake Monroe Sailing Association
- Fourwinds Lakeside Inn and Marina
Managing Agencies
Property managers remind visitors that Monroe Lake officials do not manage the Hardin Ridge Recreation Area or the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Area/Hoosier National Forest. These federal properties are managed independently by the U.S. Forest Service. Visitors with questions regarding flood impacts on those specific areas should contact the Hoosier National Forest directly.
