Berry Ridge Road Dispersed Camping offers multiple secluded sites along gravel roads south of Brown County. Sites vary in distance from the road, with some located 100 feet back through wooded areas for greater privacy. During rainy periods, access roads can become difficult for larger vehicles, and some sites experience water drainage issues. Several walking trails meander alongside the road, and the area provides good cellular reception despite its remote feel.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Multiple trail systems throughout Charles C. Deam Wilderness provide varied hiking experiences from easy to rugged. "I walked the creek for hours just looking at all the rocks on the sandbars. I have never encountered so many geodes in my life. Truly magnificent to encounter," reports Sarah R. The Patton Cave trail follows a creek with abundant geode hunting opportunities.
Visit historic sites: Take a day trip to Spring Mill State Park Campground to explore the Pioneer Village with its working grist mill. "There is a cave tour also on offer in which you ride thru the cave system in a boat. Yes there are even lifevests for customer to wear! There is even an amazing pioneer village to explore where an original corn mill stands and you can buy freshly ground corm mill," shares Rachel W.
Paddle on calm waters: Yellowwood Lake provides non-motorized boating opportunities with rentals available at the forest office. "They rent boats at the Forest Office. Electric motor only," notes Cynthia K. The lake is suitable for beginners and those seeking a quiet water experience away from motorized craft.
What campers like
Free primitive camping: Berry Ridge Road Dispersed Camping offers no-cost sites throughout the area. "Multiple campsites in the area, I've stayed at two both of which were away from others, clean, fairly flat and had plenty of dead wood around to burn. Some sites, at least one, could fit a pretty good sized camper. This is pack in pack out, no amenities camping for free," explains Jeremy F.
Secluded sites: Many dispersed sites provide significant distance between campers. "There are a couple walking trails around, as well each site is fairly far apart. It's really quite only seen a handful of cars drive by and I've stayed here for 2 nights, would highly recommend," says Ozzie L. about Berry Ridge Road.
Clean facilities: Blackwell Campground maintains well-kept vault toilets despite being a free camping area. "Open areas with pit toilets and water available. Shade and sunny locations. Pick a spot and set up with hammock-large rvs spots. No fee, no reservations, no problems," reports Betsy W.
What you should know
Weather impacts: Heavy rainfall affects site conditions and access at several campgrounds. The creek crossings leading to Horsemen's Campground can flood, while sites at Deam Lake State Recreation Area may become saturated. "Being the first weekend in April, the water wasn't turned on so there were no modern restrooms/shower houses available," notes Joshua W.
First-come availability: Many sites operate without reservations on a first-come basis. "Yellowwood state forest campground does not accept reservations. It is first come, first served. Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope," explains Daisy C.
Limited amenities: Dispersed sites require self-sufficiency. "For those of you who don't understand disperse camping this is the perfect site for a tent to camp without anything but what you bring in and take out," states James W. about Berry Ridge Road camping.
Tips for camping with families
Day-use facilities: Clifty Falls State Park provides additional activities beyond camping. "The park is a beautiful park with lots of hiking, 3 waterfalls, a cave, nature center and inn/restaurant. There is also a very nice pool located close to the campground," shares Jeff W.
Scout camp options: Ransburg Scout Reservation offers structured family activities beyond typical campgrounds. "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing. Lots of fun activities to do, and great hiking trails. Their mess hall is top notch," says Margo B.
Nearby amenities: Access to supplies remains convenient from most camping areas. "Spring Mill wasn't far from the town were there was a Walmart, Rural King, and several more stores," notes Lauren E., which provides reassurance for families needing to resupply.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area feature sloped sites requiring leveling equipment. "Site 22 was so sloped our red levelers barely made it work. Sore needed gravel, it was mostly sticky dirt that got tracked into our travel trailer immediately after sweeping," warns Beverly J. about Clifty Falls.
Generator-free camping: For those seeking quiet camping without generator noise, Yellowwood State Forest provides a peaceful alternative to more developed parks. "Yellowwood State Forest is a great area for camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, etc. It's just a couple minutes drive from the more popular Brown County State Park. I feel like this is still a bit of a hidden gem," explains Dave E.
Size restrictions: RV campers should carefully research site dimensions before arrival. "We would not recommend for larger units as most sites are small and unlevel and may challenge your maneuvering skills," advises Stephen & Theresa B. about Yellowwood State Forest's campground.
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