Allen's Creek

Located 10 miles southeast of Bloomington in Hoosier National Forest, Allens Creek offers convenient access to Monroe Lake, Indiana's largest reservoir at 10,750 acres. The ramp is well-maintained with ample parking and seasonal facilities, making it a reliable launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboat users. This is an ideal starting point for exploring the expansive, calm waters of Monroe Lake.

The area provides good access for day paddlers and boaters looking to explore the lake's scenic shoreline and numerous coves. Nearby, the Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers 36 miles of hiking and backpacking trails through hardwood forest if you're interested in combining water and land-based recreation. For extended trips, Blackwell Campground and Hickory Ridge Campground (both reservable) are located within 10 miles. Additional amenities around Monroe Lake include fishing, picnicking, and an interpretive center, making Allens Creek a well-rounded destination for outdoor recreation.

The Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers 36 miles of trails for hiking, backpacking, and horse riding through scenic hardwood forest and varied terrain with views of nearby Monroe Lake. The area was designated a wilderness in 1982 and encompasses nearly 12,953 acres of the Hoosier National Forest. Wilderness designation places this area in a special legal status (subject to the 1964 Wilderness Act)....

The Charles C. Deam Wilderness offers 36 miles of trails for hiking, backpacking, and horse riding through scenic hardwood forest and varied terrain with views of nearby Monroe Lake. The area was designated a wilderness in 1982 and encompasses nearly 12,953 acres of the Hoosier National Forest. Wilderness designation places this area in a special legal status (subject to the 1964 Wilderness Act). It is managed to preserve a natural condition and provide opportunities for solitude.Since its designation as a wilderness, visitor use in the area increased to a point that significant damage was occurring. Special restrictions are in place to protect the wilderness character. Visitors to this special place are asked to follow these restrictions to lessen your impact and share responsibility in preserving this unique natural resource.

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