Brown County State Park dominates the RV camping scene near Clermont, Indiana. The park features terrain more reminiscent of Appalachian mountain country than typical Midwest landscapes, with ridgelines and valleys creating unique camping experiences. Fall is the most popular season, with sites booking months in advance, though summer offers more availability at most campgrounds. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with better reception typically found near major highways.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Brown County State Park offers extensive riding options with dedicated horse facilities. "The park offers year around camping with reduced services in the winter months (they do have a heated bath house in the off season)... horse camping/trails," notes one visitor about Horsemen's Campground. Guided trail rides are available at the saddle barn.
Mountain biking: The park features purpose-built trails for all skill levels. A visitor to Buffalo Ridge Campground explains, "The mountain biking is excellent, with purpose built trails for beginner to expert (flow, berms, rollers, jumps...)." Connectivity to Yellowwood and Hoosier National Forest is available for more experienced riders.
Nashville shopping: The nearby town of Nashville offers artisan shops and dining options within a short drive. "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 one Taylor Ridge camper. Several campgrounds recommend visiting the town's microbreweries and distilleries for a break from outdoor activities.
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and ponds provide fishing across the area's campgrounds. At Indianapolis KOA, campers appreciate the "catch and release fishing pond, and a pond with beach for swimming." Most stocked ponds don't require Indiana fishing licenses, though state regulations apply at larger lakes.
Variety of camping terrain: Taylor Ridge Campground offers more wooded sites compared to other Brown County options. "There are 3 separate campgrounds in the park Buffalo Ridge, Raccoon, and Taylor Ridge. 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," reports one camper.
Scenic hiking trails: Trail systems connect many campground areas to lakes and natural features. "The site was walking distance from showers/bathroom. The park as a whole is beautiful and there's a trailhead that's walking distance from the campsite that leads down a beautiful trail to a lake," explains a Taylor Ridge visitor.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring leveling. A visitor to S and H Campground mentions, "Our site was incredibly uneven." At Raccoon Ridge, reviews indicate "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)."
Water access limitations: Seasonal water restrictions may apply, particularly in outlying campgrounds. At Cloverdale RV Park, "Water had a funny smell," according to one reviewer. During high use periods, water pressure can fluctuate at larger campgrounds.
Navigation challenges: Several campgrounds have access restrictions for larger vehicles. "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 Buffalo Ridge visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Indianapolis KOA features splash pads and child-friendly water features. "The splash pad / water park was fun, but was not a pool. It only goes to 3 feet so if you want to swim this is not for you. The water was cold but my kiddos finally got in and had fun on the slides," explains a visitor.
Educational experiences: Many campgrounds offer nature programs and wildlife encounters. "We visited the nature center which was nothing spectacular but still something nice to do," notes one camper. Brown County State Park occasionally features raptor shows and guided wildlife walks for children.
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature modern playground equipment for various age groups. S and H Campground has "a little section full of carnival like rides. Several playgrounds!" making it popular with families looking for structured recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Electric service reliability: During peak usage, voltage fluctuations can occur at some RV parks. A camper at S and H noted, "When everyone started turning on their AC, my surge protector kept kicking due to voltage swings." Bringing a surge protector is recommended, particularly during summer heat waves.
Site selection strategy: For larger RVs, request specific areas at Raccoon Ridge Campground. "Raccoon Ridge which is tent sites around the outside, with electric inside the loop. Which would be suitable for RVs," advises one visitor. Avoid the back sections of Taylor Ridge with larger rigs, as roads and sites become tighter.
Overnight amenities: Some campgrounds offer surprising conveniences. At Indianapolis KOA, "We ordered pizza for dinner they deliver to the site which is nice." Several RV parks in the area also feature on-site ice cream shops and small cafes for when you don't want to cook.
