Paynetown State Recreation Area

Paynetown State Recreation Area, located on the northeast side of Monroe Lake, provides fun-in-the-sun activities such as swimming, boating, camping and hiking, plus a DNR-staffed Interpretive Center with many programs to engage their visitors. Upon entering the recreation area, you are greeted by the friendly DNR staff that will assist you with any questions. An entrance fee or state park pass is required.
Camping
With over 225 electric campsites (including 3 handicap accessible sites) and 75 non-electric campsites, which includes 30 pull thru sites plus several lake-view non-electric tent sites, there are many options when it comes to camping. The electric campground area contains 4 comfort stations with running water and showers in addition to one pit toilet. The non-electrical tent areas are within the confines, but on the outskirts of the electric campground nearer the lake. The non-electric campground contains one comfort station with running water and showers, several pit toilets, a fish cleaning station, plus a shelter house and a playground with restrooms nearby. The park also provides a camp store and a pump out station for RV campers and for boats. Reserve your campsite online.
Beach w/ Bathhouse
A spacious beach complete with a bath house is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Spend your day swimming and basking in the sun while watching boaters and other watercraft in the distance also enjoying beautiful Lake Monroe. Visit the Activity Center located next to the beach.
Activity Center and Calendar of Events
Paynetown SRA Activity Center, located next to the beach, is open daily from 1 pm to 5 pm beginning Memorial Day weekend through mid-August. In the Fall (mid-August through October) the center is open weekends only from 1 pm to 5 pm. Winter and Spring hours are by chance or appointment.

Boat Launch
Paynetown provides one of nine boat launches in the area. Providing easy access to the lake on the east side of the park, this is a convenient place to launch your watercraft and begin your day of fun! Seasonal mooring is available on docks or buoys.
Boat Rental
Join the excitement by renting a watercraft for the day. Lake Monroe Boat Rental Inc. is located in the park. Their rentals include Double Deckers with Slides, Pontoons, Jet Skis, Ski Boats, Fishing Boats, Canoes, Kayaks, Paddleboats, Canoes and Water Sport Accessories. Call (812)837-9909 for info and to reserve your watercraft.