North Vernon camping areas include densely forested sections where temperatures can range from winter lows of 20°F to summer highs near 90°F. Most campgrounds in the region sit at elevations between 700-900 feet, creating rolling terrain that affects drainage during heavy rainfall. Local RV parks frequently experience higher occupancy rates on summer weekends and during fall color season from late September through October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Thousand Trails Indian Lakes in Batesville, campers find good fishing conditions with reasonable prices. "Fishing is very good reasonable priceing," notes Cujo S., while Kimberly A. shares, "we love going camping here. we go at least 3 times a summer because of how peaceful it is."
Trail exploration: Brown County State Park offers extensive hiking and mountain biking options 30 miles from North Vernon. "The park has a classic old CCC lodge (though you enter through the modern addition) so if you don't want to cook, eat at the restaurant (open till 8:PM), great food, generous portions," reports Brian O. from Raccoon Ridge Campground.
Swimming: CERA Sports Corporation provides pool access with unique features. "Pool area is super nice with a waterslide, diving boards and a unique rock climbing wall in the deep end. My kids always look forward to this campground," says tricia B. Another camper adds, "We spent a week there and the kids never got bored."
Horseback riding: The dedicated equestrian areas at Brown County State Park accommodate riders with specific facilities. "There are a lot of fun hills and trails that you can ride for hours which we love to do," says bria M. about the Horsemen's Campground.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Follow The River RV Resort offers river views and concrete pads. "Mostly level concrete pads, nice picnic table & fire ring. Internet, meh. Typical. We bring our own wifi (T-Mobile was fine)," shares Alan B., who adds, "We live only 35 minutes from here but we'll be back if we just need to get away!"
Privacy levels: Brown County State Park campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. "We stayed in Taylor which was dubbed 'wooded' and the one I would most suggest. The others were pretty cleared out and too close together," notes Caitlin W. about Taylor Ridge Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds prioritize activities for children. At CERA Sports Corporation, Janet writes, "We absolutely love this place. A lot to do, swimming, mini golf, ect. You can bring your golf cart for a extra fee."
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance is appreciated across multiple campgrounds. "Very clean bathrooms and shower houses," Rob H. mentions about Taylor Ridge, while Brian O. comments on Raccoon Ridge: "All the rest rooms are spotlessly clean."
What you should know
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites throughout the region require leveling equipment. "The site we stayed in was lovely. It was backed up to the edge of the woods which made for a lovely view... Also, some sites were fairly sloped as well," explains Amanda D. at Taylor Ridge Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds limit operations from April through October. Indian Lakes runs from April 1 to November 1, while CERA Sports Corporation operates April 1 to October 31. Winter camping options are limited to year-round facilities like Follow The River RV Resort.
Reservation timing: Peak seasons require advance planning. This is especially true for Brown County State Park, where Buffalo Ridge Campground is particularly popular. "This campground is busy all season so book a long time in advance," advises Chad A.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly between campgrounds. Charlie M. notes about Woods-N-Waters: "We turned off CR 58 on S 300 W with our Class A and found a narrow road that was wide enough for our Class A and another small car. The berm is non-existant to the west."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple pool options: Families appreciate water recreation during summer months. At CERA Sports Corporation, Alyssa P. reports, "Gravel campsites in a very family friendly location! Stopped here on out way back to Illinois from Tennessee. Easy hookups, a lot of things to do for the family."
Dog-friendly areas: Many RV parks North Vernon, Indiana accommodate pets with designated spaces. "They are pet friendly and allow portable fences," notes Randy P. about Follow The River RV Resort. Emerson F. adds about Indian Lakes: "I also appreciated the dog park that was well maintained to give my pup some freedom to roam off leash."
Activities beyond camping: Local attractions supplement campground amenities. For Raccoon Ridge Campground, Ron B. points out: "Holiday Fourth of July 2022 weekend the start Park was special excitement in downtown Nashville, Indiana a short drive outside the State Park. The town has souvenirs shops in the old 50's style look, dining, groceries, ect..."
Playground access: Most family-oriented campgrounds include play structures. According to Daina C. regarding CERA Sports Corporation, "We love the beautiful peaceful lake, our grandkids love the pool with the slide and rock wall, the mini golf, the paddle boats and the amazing playground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: For RVs near North Vernon, Indiana, choosing appropriate sites matters. "If you're camping in Buffalo Ridge loop as the back has sites that are pretty steep," advises Logan E., while Amanda D. suggests: "I would say pay particular attention to the size of the site you're booking as some were pretty small."
Electric service details: Power options vary by campground location. At Indian Lakes RV Campground, Brandie B. reports: "We were assigned a 50 amp site with water and sewer in loop 4B. This is an open loop with very few trees for shade."
Dump station locations: Waste disposal differs between parks. Stephen & Theresa B. note about Woods-N-Waters: "Our site had no sewer hook up but on the way out there is a good dump station. Limited transient sites have sewer."
Seasonal fluctuations: Occupancy patterns affect camping experience. "During our stay we did not access the restroom, laundry, recreation or store areas as we were practicing social distancing," mentions Brandie B., adding, "On weekends there's an increase in golf-cart users and most neighbors are respectful during quiet hours."
