Scout Ridge Youth Campground

For outdoor enthusiasts and youth groups across Indiana, the vast expanse of Morgan-Monroe State Forest offers an incredible opportunity to connect with nature. Nestled within this beautiful forest is Scout Ridge Youth Campground, a dedicated space designed to facilitate immersive outdoor experiences. Whether you're a scout troop, a family looking for a rustic adventure, or simply someone who loves the tranquility of the forest, Scout Ridge provides a unique setting to explore Indiana's natural beauty. This article will delve into what makes Scout Ridge a compelling choice for your next outdoor excursion, from its location to its features and the invaluable experiences it offers.

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Scout Ridge Youth Campground is a primitive camping site located within the expansive Morgan-Monroe State Forest in Unionville, Indiana. While designated as a "Youth Campground" and suitable for scout troops and other organized groups, its offerings also appeal to individuals and families seeking a back-to-basics camping experience. The campground is characterized by its natural beauty, abundant trees, and diverse plant life, providing a true immersion into the Hoosier wilderness.

Visitors consistently praise the campground for its "great outdoors" feel and the sheer amount of natural beauty. It's known for its many trees and various plant types, creating a lush and invigorating environment. Reviews often highlight the "fun time camping at Morgan-Monroe," emphasizing the positive aspects of staying in this natural setting. Scout Ridge offers a peaceful retreat, encouraging campers to explore the surrounding forest, enjoy campfires, and appreciate the simplicity of outdoor living. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and rejuvenate amidst Indiana's remarkable natural heritage.

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Scout Ridge Youth Campground is located at Scout Ridge Rd, Unionville, IN 47468, USA, placing it deep within the scenic Morgan-Monroe State Forest. This vast forest, spanning over 24,000 acres across Morgan and Monroe counties, is renowned for its extensive trails and significant recreational opportunities. The campground's address provides a clear geographical marker, guiding visitors to this specific area within the larger forest.

Accessing Scout Ridge typically involves navigating the well-maintained roads within Morgan-Monroe State Forest. From Martinsville, visitors can take SR 37 South for about 4.7 miles to Main Forest Rd, then turn east (left) and follow it to just north of Fire Headquarters, then go east (right) on the first road to a preserve sign. Parking is available at the camping picnic shelter at Scout Ridge Youth Campground. The location offers a sense of seclusion, yet remains accessible for those looking to explore the natural beauty of South Central Indiana. Its proximity to hiking trails directly from the campground makes it an ideal base for outdoor adventures. While the campground offers a rustic experience, it is still within reasonable driving distance of towns like Martinsville and Bloomington for essential supplies or services if needed, though campers should arrive prepared for a more self-sufficient stay.

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Scout Ridge Youth Campground, being a primitive camping site within a state forest, provides essential services geared towards facilitating an authentic outdoor experience. These services are designed to offer fundamental comforts while maintaining the natural integrity of the forest. Based on visitor reviews and information about Morgan-Monroe State Forest campgrounds, the following services are typically available:

• Designated Campsites: Scout Ridge offers small camping sites suitable for pulling in cars or trailers, as well as spots designed for tents. These are typically primitive sites.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meals and activities.
• Small Fire Pits/Rings: Designated areas for campfires are provided at each site, allowing campers to enjoy traditional outdoor fires.
• Bathroom Facilities: The campground typically includes a bathroom with a locking door, offering basic restroom amenities. Vault toilets are common in primitive campgrounds within the forest.
• Shelter House with Grills: A common shelter house with grills is available, which can be particularly useful for group gatherings or inclement weather.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water is generally available at central points within the campground, although campers may need to carry water to their individual sites.
• Firewood Availability: While campers are encouraged to gather downed wood for fires (no chainsaws allowed), firewood is often available for purchase at the forest office for a reasonable fee.

It's important to note that, as a primitive campground, Scout Ridge typically does not offer electric hookups, and showers are not usually available. Campers should plan accordingly for these aspects of their stay.

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Scout Ridge Youth Campground's appeal lies in its fundamental connection to the natural environment and the opportunities it provides for genuine outdoor experiences. Key features and highlights include:

• Abundant Natural Beauty: The campground is nestled among "so very many trees and different types of plants," offering a rich natural environment for exploration and enjoyment. This is a consistent highlight in visitor feedback.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Located within Morgan-Monroe State Forest, campers have immediate access to a vast network of trails, ranging from "big trails and small trails" to longer, more rugged options. One review explicitly stated, "If you like hiking, this is the place!"
• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: While part of a larger forest, Scout Ridge offers a sense of peacefulness and seclusion, ideal for those looking to escape urban noise and light pollution.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Despite its primitive nature, the provision of picnic tables, fire pits, and the overall safe environment within a state forest makes it suitable for families and youth groups.
• Affordable Firewood: The availability of "super cheap" firewood for purchase from the office ($5 for a cartload) is a practical highlight, complementing the option to gather downed wood.
• Ideal for Bikes: One reviewer expressed hope to "bring bikes next time and see how those trails go," suggesting the area is conducive to cycling, with paved bike trails also present in the wider Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
• Nature Preserve Access: Scout Ridge Nature Preserve is located in this area, offering a self-guiding trail for nature study, winding through a 15-acre preserve dominated by beech and maple trees, with glacial boulders in streambeds.
• Shelter House for Groups: The presence of a shelter house with grills offers a valuable communal space for groups, especially beneficial for youth organizations.

While the lack of abundant deadfall for firewood at certain spots was mentioned, this is often a natural consequence of popular camping areas and can be mitigated by purchasing wood from the office.

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As a state-managed youth campground within Morgan-Monroe State Forest, Scout Ridge Youth Campground typically operates on a standardized fee structure rather than offering frequent commercial promotions or special offers. Pricing for primitive campsites in Indiana State Forests is generally set by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

However, it's always advisable to check with the Morgan-Monroe State Forest office for any specific group rates, seasonal discounts, or permit requirements that might apply to youth groups or extended stays. For example, while primitive camping is often available for a fee, some backcountry camping areas within the wider forest might not have a fee but require registration at the forest office. Fees for purchasing firewood on-site are typically consistent, as noted by a reviewer mentioning "$5 for a nice cartfull of logs."

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any costs, special arrangements for youth groups, or specific booking procedures, direct contact with the Morgan-Monroe State Forest office is recommended.

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To learn more about Scout Ridge Youth Campground, make inquiries about booking for youth groups, or get details on current conditions within Morgan-Monroe State Forest, please use the following contact information:

Address: Scout Ridge Rd, Unionville, IN 47468, USA (within Morgan-Monroe State Forest)

Phone: (765) 342-4026 (This is the contact number for Morgan-Monroe State Forest office)

It is best to contact the forest office directly for the most current information regarding camping availability, specific rules for youth groups, and any other relevant details for your visit.

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For locals in Indiana, particularly those seeking an authentic and immersive outdoor experience within a well-preserved natural environment, Scout Ridge Youth Campground in Morgan-Monroe State Forest is an excellent choice. Its primary suitability stems from its location within one of Indiana's largest and most beautiful state forests, offering immediate access to extensive hiking and biking trails amidst diverse flora and fauna. This makes it a perfect destination for families, scout troops, and individuals who prioritize outdoor activities and a genuine connection with nature.

The primitive nature of the campground, coupled with essential amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and basic restrooms, strikes a balance between rustic adventure and necessary comfort. The affordability of on-site firewood and the overall value of camping in a state forest further enhance its appeal. For Hoosiers looking to unplug, explore vast woodlands, and enjoy peaceful evenings around a campfire, Scout Ridge provides a consistent and rewarding experience. Its focus on youth groups also makes it a valuable resource for fostering outdoor skills and appreciation among younger generations in Indiana, solidifying its role as a cherished local outdoor destination.