Brown County State Park dominates the camping landscape within 30 miles of Borden, Indiana, with three distinct campgrounds spanning nearly 500 sites across varied terrain. RV campers will find most facilities situated between 20-40 minutes from Borden, with elevation changes creating both challenges and scenic opportunities. Fall foliage season brings heavy tourism traffic, typically peaking from late September through October when campground reservations become essential.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: At Taylor Ridge Campground, visitors can access horse trails and riding opportunities. "The park has a horse barn for trail rides and also a horse camp. There is a lodge there too but I didn't have time to see it. Also a swimming pool and nature center," notes one reviewer who found multiple activities within the park boundaries.
Boat access to Ohio River: Several campgrounds offer river access for boaters. Horseshoe Bend RV Campground provides boat-in access with "great views of the Ohio River and an occasional barge," according to a visitor who appreciated the river views from their campsite.
Mountain biking trails: Brown County features extensive purpose-built mountain biking networks. "The mountain biking is excellent, with purpose built trails for beginner to expert (flow, berms, rollers, jumps...)," reports a reviewer at Buffalo Ridge Campground who discovered trail options for various skill levels.
What campers like
Historic town access: The proximity to Nashville, Indiana provides campers with shopping and dining options. "Nashville is only a 5 minute drive from the campgrounds, and it's a blast going to all of the different shops and restaurants located in town," writes a Taylor Ridge visitor who enjoyed the convenient town access.
Private riverfront sites: Swiss Haven RV Resort offers premium spots along the Ohio River. "The owners here are focused on growing their business and have just completed a new building to accommodate a store and reception area, potential for limited dining, and activity center. They have also completed a new deck area that overlooks the campground and Ohio River," notes a camper who found the family-owned operation welcoming.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses and grounds. "The pit toilets at the back of the loop were probably the cleanest pits I've ever used. Bonus that there are dedicated mens/womens pits," reports a Raccoon Ridge Campground camper who appreciated the surprisingly clean facilities.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region require equipment for leveling. "Some spots are uneven and tight, but also some very large (back of loop and some of the spots on side of loop in the front)," notes a Raccoon Ridge visitor, highlighting the variable site conditions.
Reservation timing: Peak seasons demand advance planning. "This park is phenomenal! With 3 Campgrounds to choose from you can't go wrong! Amazing staff, great amenities, well kept and clean," mentions a Buffalo Ridge camper who recommends securing sites early, especially for holiday weekends.
North entrance limitations: Some parks have vehicle size restrictions at certain entrances. "The north entrance is through a covered bridge with a 9 foot clearance and 3 ton limit! Otherwise, use the easily accessible west entrance, just a few miles around the corner," warns a visitor to the Brown County area.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Scottsburg/Raintree Lake KOA offers multiple recreation options. "The lake is GORGEOUS. Sites have mature trees, variety of singing birds. There is a sand volleyball net, gah gah ball, dog park, playground, mini golf (not ready for summer yet), and a new pool soon," writes a family who discovered numerous activities for children.
Accessible nature programs: Educational opportunities exist within park boundaries. "We visited the nature center which was nothing spectacular but still something nice to do. We also hiked on 3 of the trails and went up the fire tower," mentions a Raccoon Ridge camper who found family-friendly activities.
Nearby exploration: The surrounding region offers additional attractions. "The park is in close proximity to the artist village of Nashville, shopping, good dining and groceries. Autumn is the heavy tourist season with the changing of the leaves...breathtaking vistas from the parks elevated vantage points!" notes a Buffalo Ridge visitor who extended their exploration beyond the campground.
Tips from RVers
Access route selection: RV sites near Borden, Indiana often require careful navigation planning. "Large rigs must access the park through the West entrance due to a low clearance covered bridge at the North entrance," advises a Buffalo Ridge camper who discovered entrance restrictions.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on specific camping needs. "Our third Indiana state park. Still impressed, they have all been friendly, well maintained with good, spread out sites and good signage everywhere. We were there mid-week, so very few of the 480 sites were occupied, except in Buffalo Ridge, the primary RV loop," notes a camper at Raccoon Ridge who found midweek camping offered more choices.
Power stability: RVers report reliable electrical connections. "Sites are level, water is good, power is stable at 118 VAC," reports a Brooks RV Park visitor who found dependable utilities. Another camper notes, "All 50 amp full hook up sites. Every site has a picnic table and a fire pit. There is a nice laundromat, and the paved roads were repaved not long ago."
