Brown County State Park and surrounding areas near Harrodsburg, Indiana sit amid rolling hills with elevations ranging from 600-1,000 feet. The region has four distinct seasons with fall temperatures averaging 45-65°F, making October a popular month for campers. Camping options include both primitive sites and developed campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of Harrodsburg.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Brown County State Park's Taylor Ridge Campground connects directly to numerous hiking paths. "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," notes Amanda D.
Mountain biking network: The extensive trail system accommodates riders of all skill levels. "The mountain bike trails are fantastic, with purpose built trails for beginner to expert (flow, berms, rollers, jumps...)," shares TMB from Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Horse trail riding: Dedicated equestrian trails offer miles of scenic routes. "There are a lot of fun hills and trails that you can ride for hours which we love to do," writes bria M. about the Horsemen's Campground. Visitors can bring their own horses or use the park's rental services.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site selection affects privacy levels significantly. "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," advises Caitlin W.
Recreational water activities: Lake Monroe provides swimming, boating, and paddling options. "We all went out on my brother's boat. The next day my wife and I rented kayaks, we had a blast," shares Katie M. about Paynetown Campground.
Seasonal programming: Organized activities enhance the camping experience, especially during holidays. "Went for fall break & their Halloween week! So much fun," reports Shannon C. about Raccoon Ridge Campground, while Jamie B. adds "The activity center has programs all the time and there is always something going on there."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution enhances stargazing opportunities. "No set camp spots but great to set up and have no light pollution! Close to town but also right off some amazing trails!" notes Emily H. about camping in the Hoosier National Forest.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites throughout the region require leveling equipment. "Some sites were fairly sloped as well. This site was a slight slope and overall I would book it again," shares Amanda D.
Water availability varies: Access points differ between campgrounds. "Keep in mind that these sites run a lot more per night and additional occupants that show are expected to pay the park over and above the daily rate. Also the park does not allow usage of the campground shower facilities if you stay on a Rally site," explains Chad A. about Rally Group Campground.
Trail conditions: Recent weather affects accessibility. "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," reports Michael S.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost sites. "Can't believe this place was free. It was nearly empty (although it was the end of November). The hiking was fantastic and the few people camping there were very well dispersed," shares Kelly G. about Blackwell Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Lake swimming areas provide family recreation. "My family and sister in laws family camp here every year. Our kids love it and we all have a great time. They even if it's just going down to swim at the beach," recommends Kathryn F.
Nature education opportunities: Guided programs enhance children's outdoor experiences. "The nature center is really fun with animals and a bee hive that the children really enjoyed! There are a lot of diverse hiking trails for all," shares Jessie W.
Halloween activities: Seasonal camping includes special events for children. "They also had a Trick or Treat night, and it was fun to see all of the creative costumes and kids (and adults) having fun," reports Margo B. about Paynetown Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs equally. "I would say pay particular attention to the size of the site you're booking as some were pretty small," advises Amanda D., while Brian O. notes about Raccoon Ridge: "Many of the tent sites are split-level, meaning the fire pit and tent area is down a hill from where you park your car."
Water quality considerations: RV water systems might require filtration. "Water had a funny smell, however. But, would stay again for sure," mentions Natalie about Cloverdale RV Park.
Dump station facilities: Most campgrounds provide waste disposal access. "We had plenty of room at our site (site #18), and enjoyed the beauty of nature... Water access was plentiful, and easy and fast dump station," shares Margo B.
