Visit North Fork State Wildlife Refuge, Find Geodes on Beautiful Monroe Lake!

Let’s get on the water late in the day and explore Monroe Lake, the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Area, and the Stillwater–North Fork Wildlife Resting Area. This section of the lake offers quiet coves, wildlife‑rich shorelines, and a peaceful evening paddle as the day winds down. A camping Meetup is happening nearby at Brown County State Park — you’re welcome to join that too, but please sign up separately.

THE PADDLE
We’ll paddle roughly 6 miles from the Pine Grove Boat Ramp and back, taking a slow, exploratory pace with plenty of time for photos, wildlife viewing, and shoreline wandering.

• Start
Meet at Pine Grove Boat Ramp (Pine Grove State Recreation Area, 7699 E Pine Grove Rd, Bloomington, IN). Please arrive early with your boat unloaded and ready. We push off at 4:30 PM
• Finish
We expect to be off the water around 8:30 PM PM. Civil twilight ends: ~8:32 PM EDT
• Duration
Expect to spend about 4 + or - hours for this event.
• Pace
Slow, relaxed, and explorative — perfect or cameras, binoculars, and curiosity.
• Distance
Approximately 6 miles, depending on group pace.
• Difficulty
Easy under normal conditions, but this is a big lake. If it’s windy, expect waves and open‑water conditions. You must be comfortable on large lakes and able to perform a self‑rescue reentry on your own. Ages 18+ only. You must be able to rescue reentry into your boat on your own.

WHAT YOU WILL SEE
We’ll explore the beautiful Charles C. Deam Wilderness shoreline — a 12,953‑acre protected hardwood forest with 36 miles of trails and a long history of conservation under the 1964 Wilderness Act. Expect scenic ridgelines, quiet coves, and a natural, undeveloped shoreline.

We’ll also visit the Stillwater-Northfolk Wildlife Resting Area. This zone is one of Monroe Lake’s most important habitats for migrating and overwintering waterfowl. Outside the October 1–April 15 closure period, paddlers can quietly explore the edges of its marshy inlets and sheltered bays. Herons, egrets, loons, raptors, and other wildlife are commonly seen here. Because this is a sensitive ecological area, we’ll move respectfully and avoid disturbing birds.

Along the way, keep an eye out for eagles, waterfowl, small mammals, and the geodes that dot the shoreline.

• Restrooms
Available at the launch area only.

• Food
Bring water, snacks and your dinner — we’ll cook and eat on the beach. Backpacking‑style meal prep is ideal.

EQUIPMENT
A boat that tracks well would be ideal. A 12+ foot boat is highly recommended. As we are paddling late in the day, bring illumination for your boat. and a headlamp for your noggin.

The navigation of Indiana’s waters after dark prompts a need for illumination. Unpowered canoes and kayaks demand at least a luminous white lantern, ensuring visibility from all angles to thwart potential collisions. Additionally, the State encourages red and green bow lights for kayaks and canoes navigating the dark waters.

You will be required to wear a PFD so bring it, put it on, and be happy we care about you.

• What to Bring
PFD (required) and all your fall-weather paddling stuff...sun hat / water / sunscreen / bug spray, lights. Dry clothes, dry shoes, stored in a drybag is required. Your rescue and reentry safety equipment as you need (paddle float, sling, and pump).

• What to leave home
No pets on this paddle. Please leave fido and the other critters at home. This is for the safety and enjoyment of the attendees.

PLEASE NOTE: A $5.00 permit is required for your boat. Info can be found in Monroe Lake Website

MAPS AND INFORMATION
Launch Location: Pine Grove Boat Ramp
Address: 7699 E Pine Grove Rd · Bloomington, us
Monroe Lake Map
Monroe Lake Website
View daily lake level report
Note: Civil twilight ends: ~8:32 PM EDT on September 6th, 2026

CANCELLATION
This paddle will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather or unsuitable lake conditions. Check the event page for updates.

SAFETY, WAIVER & REQUIREMENTS
ACCIDENT WAIVER & RELEASE OF LIABILITY
Your YES RSVP and attendance acknowledge that you have read and agree to the accident waiver and release of liability. I am not a guide — just a fellow adventurer organizing a group of friends to enjoy the outdoors together. I love you guys, but I love my family more.
Waiver located here!

GUESTS
No guests on a single RSVP. Please ask friends to create a Meetup account and RSVP individually so everyone acknowledges the liability waiver.