Paynetown SRA hosts Ghostly Gathering, Oct. 27-28

Monroe Lake is hosting its “Ghostly Gathering,” Oct. 27 and 28, at Paynetown State Recreation Area.

Programming will begin Saturday afternoon with ghost, goblin and ghoul crafts, followed by an all-ages costume contest. A campground decorating contest and trick-or-treating will take place in the early evening. The night will conclude with a family-friendly Halloween party at the activity center.

On Sunday, there will be a unique “ghost hunt” on the property trails, and a mini-mummy keychain craft activity during the afternoon.

Full details are on Monroe Lake’s October program schedule at dnr.IN.gov/parklake/2954.htm and by calling the Paynetown Activity Center at (812) 837-9967 or emailing jvance@dnr.IN.gov.

The standard entrance fee of $5 per in-state vehicle and $7 per out-of-state vehicle applies.

Paynetown SRA is at 4850 South S.R. 446, Bloomington, 47401.

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is the agency of the U.S. state of Indiana charged with maintaining natural areas such as state parks, state forests, recreation areas, etc. There are many divisions within the DNR and each has a specific role. The DNR is not only responsible for maintaining resource areas but also manages Indiana's fish and wildlife, reclaims coal mine ground, manages forested areas, aids in the management of wildlife on private lands, enforces Indiana's conservation laws, and many other duties not named here. According to the department's website, their mission is "to protect, enhance, preserve, and wisely use natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education."