Brown County State Park dominates the camping landscape near Columbus, Indiana with three distinct camping areas. The park spans over 16,000 acres of forested hills, offering elevation changes of 300-400 feet that create diverse camping conditions across the property. Sites at Taylor Ridge Campground have varying degrees of slope and size, requiring careful selection based on your camping setup.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Brown County State Park features numerous trails accessible directly from the campgrounds, with terrain that ranges from easy lakeside paths to challenging hillside routes. At Taylor Ridge Campground, "There's a trailhead that's walking distance from the campsite that leads down a beautiful trail to a lake," according to Amanda D.
Mountain biking adventures: The park offers extensive purpose-built mountain bike trails suitable for beginners through experts. Michael S. notes, "The mountain bike trails are fantastic," with features including "flow, berms, rollers, jumps" that cater to different skill levels.
Horseback riding: The Horsemen's Campground provides specialized accommodations for campers with horses. Bria M. shares, "There are a lot of fun hills and trails that you can ride for hours which we love to do." The campground includes wooden racks for tying horses and access to dedicated equestrian trails.
What campers like
Scenic landscape: The forested hills of Brown County create a unique camping environment often compared to the Appalachians. TMB describes Buffalo Ridge Campground as a "Mountain-like Park in Southern Indiana" that's "easily mistaken for Appalachia" with its variable topography.
Family-friendly amenities: CERA Sports Corporation offers extensive recreation options beyond standard camping. "Plenty for the kids to do. And fun activities for the adults as well. Also can't forget the lakeside bar with live music every weekend!" says Greyson S. The campground includes a pool with waterslide, mini-golf, and paddle boats.
Wooded campsites: Taylor Ridge Campground provides more tree cover than other areas in Brown County State Park. Caitlin W. recommends: "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."
What you should know
Terrain variations: Campsite conditions vary significantly between the three campgrounds at Brown County State Park. As Wendy T. notes about Taylor Ridge, "The roads are not marked very well and it took a bit to find our site which needed level blocks and is just wide enough for the RV."
Vehicle clearance limitations: Access to Brown County State Park has important restrictions. TMB warns about Buffalo Ridge: "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.'"
Seasonal maintenance issues: Tree damage and weather impacts can affect camping experiences, particularly after storms. Michael S. reports: "There were trees down throughout the park including our campsite. It took a couple hours for them to come clean it up but even when they did they didn't do a complete job."
Tips for camping with families
Town exploration: The proximity to Nashville, Indiana provides additional entertainment options for families. Chris W. shares, "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."
Nature center visits: Brown County-Nashville KOA offers easy access to the state park's educational facilities. Jessie W. notes, "The nature center is really fun with animals and a bee hive that the children really enjoyed!"
Pool facilities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options with varying features. At CERA Sports Corporation, tricia B. describes, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: When seeking RV sites near Columbus, Indiana, carefully research the space limitations at each campground. Lori S. advises about Brown County-Nashville KOA: "One stretch of sites is tight, short and cramped. I'll be more site picky next time."
Seasonal camping options: For longer stays, Daina C. recommends: "We are full timers and have spent the last three summers here to be near family. We love the beautiful peaceful lake." Thousand Trails Indian Lakes offers seasonal options with various hookup arrangements.
Leveling requirements: Many campsites in the area require significant leveling. GP shares about their experience at Brown County-Nashville KOA: "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."
