Brown County State Park's high ridges and deep valleys mark the largest state park in Indiana, featuring elevations up to 1,058 feet and heavily forested terrain. Located 30 miles southeast of Columbus, the area offers diverse camping experiences from rustic tent sites to luxury glamping options. Winter temperatures average between 38-20°F while summer ranges from 84-64°F with moderate rainfall throughout the year.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking trails: Brown County State Park offers extensive trail networks suitable for various skill levels. According to one visitor at Rally Group Campground — Brown County State Park, "This beautiful park does not seem to belong in the Midwest. Our family returns at least once a year for the scenery and biking."
Fishing and paddling: Several lakes support recreational water activities near Columbus. A camper at Starve Hollow State Rec Area Campground shares, "We hiked 10 miles throughout the park, which was clean and pretty. We brought our canoe and a kayak, and enjoyed fishing the lake for small mouth bass, crappie, and cat fish."
Adventure activities: Beyond traditional camping, thrill seekers can enjoy zip lines, paintball, and off-road tours. A visitor notes, "I've been zipping here twice and enjoyed both encounters. About three years transpired between visits and they have added a lot of new features since my original visit."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. One guest at Brown County-Nashville KOA reports, "This is our go to campground. Not overly large but it's clean and quiet. The owners are friendly and helpful. Bathrooms/showers are clean. Laundry on site."
Water access sites: Lakefront camping spots provide direct access to fishing and water activities. A camper at Starve Hollow State Rec Area Campground states, "It was very nice to camp right on the water! Grounds were very clean, facilities were clean. We will definitely be back!"
Proximity to Nashville, Indiana: The small town offers shopping and dining options within minutes of most campgrounds. A visitor at Hidden Paradise Campground noted, "We stayed in site 107 on a Sunday night and had the section all to ourselves. I think the place is quite busy on weekends though."
What you should know
Reservations recommended: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Jackson Washington State Forest explains, "Reservation can NOT to made (first come first serve)," making it one of the few exceptions where advance booking isn't possible.
Variable site conditions: Not all campsites are created equal, with some offering more privacy or level ground than others. One camper observed, "Our site was right near the lake which provided a perfect view. There was a picnic table and fire ring for only 13 dollars."
Seasonal considerations: While many campgrounds operate year-round, amenities vary by season. A review notes, "Potable water is available seasonally and firewood can be purchased at the forest office." Winter camping requires additional preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. A camper at Friends O' Mine Campground & Cabins shares, "Best place for camping, fishing, and relaxing. Pool onsite, rec room, firepits, showers, campstore, ect."
Multiple accommodation options: Families can choose between tent sites, RV hookups, or cabins based on comfort needs. One visitor explains, "Minutes from state park and downtown. Big rig friendly sites, Tmobile worked perfectly, facilities clean and weekend activities made the stay enjoyable for our kids."
Swimming areas: Many campgrounds offer designated swimming spots for families. A review states, "A large beach is available for swimming from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Restrooms, dressing facilities, showers, and food concessions are available to visitors."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. A camper at Oak Ridge Camping Area — Morgan-Monroe State Forest advises, "This campground is for those who like to 'rough it' a little bit. We are RV campers and there are only about 5 sites we could get in to. Our camper is about 25' and it was tight getting in and out of the campground."
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites are limited at some campgrounds. One RVer reports, "Nice and shaded sites with full hookups. Clean bathrooms and showers. Nice laundromat. Staff was very friendly. Was a little pricey but with water electric sewer and cable hookups and a laundromat. Definitely worth the price."
Leveling needs: Many sites in the region require leveling blocks. A camper notes, "Pads are gravel and we did need to use several leveling blocks on our site, which made for a doosey of a bottom step into and out of our trailer."