Morgan-Monroe State Forest
Bloomington, IN
This large forested area contains some of the best woodland habitat for breeding birds in Indiana.
Specialty Species:
Ruffed Grouse: There are Ruffed Grouse that inhabit the forest, but they are very difficult to see. You are much more likely to hear their drumming as you drive slowly through the forest.
Vireos: During spring and fall migration, numerous species of vireos can be seen in the forest.
Warblers: Many species of warblers can be found in the forest during migration. This is also great breeding habitat for Cerulean, Hooded, Kentucky, and Worm-eating Warblers.
Where to Bird:
- Bryant's Creek Road
- Forest Road
- Ravinia Woods
Bryant’s Creek Road: Drive this road in the spring and summer for many migrating and breeding species. This is one of the best and most reliable areas for Worm-eating Warblers this far north in Indiana.
Forest Road: Drive slowly along this road listening for migrant passerines. When you hear some activity, pull safely to the side of the road and get out to find the birds that you have heard from the car.
Ravinia Woods: This site is not connected to the main part of Morgan-Monroe State Forest. It is located to the southwest of Martinsville just off of SR-67. There are five parking areas located throughout the property.
Hours:
None
Fees:
None
Accessiblity:
You can bird from the car driving slowly through the area.
Trails:
There are many opportunities for hiking at Pea Island. You can take a 4 mile hike around North Pond or hike the miles of Atlantic coastline.
Non-birding Equipment Needed:
- None
Lenght of Visit:
2-3 Hours, More if you are hiking any of the long trails
Map:
- No map is currently available.
Website:
Directions:
From the North: From the intersection of SR-39 and SR-37 in Martinsville, take SR-37 South. After 5.6 miles, turn left (east) onto Bryant’s Creek Road.
From the South: From the intersection of SR-46 and Sr-37 in Bloomington, take SR-37 North. After 10.5 miles, turn right (east) onto Bryant’s Creek Road.
To get to Ravinia Woods: Take SR-37 North from Morgan Monroe SF. Take the SR-39 exit and follow SR-39 through Martinsville to SR-67. Turn left (south) onto SR-67. After 5.1 miles, turn right (west) onto South Duckworth Road. Follow the curves to stay on S. Duckworth Road. Go 2.35 miles and turn right (north) into the Welcome Area and first parking lot.
Address:
6220 Forest Road
Martinsville, IN 46151
(765) 342-4026
Nearby Birding: