Indianapolis and surrounding areas offer RV camping sites in varied terrain with trails, lake access, and facilities for overnight visitors. Taylor Ridge Campground in Brown County State Park contains sites set against wooded backdrops with terrain that can range from relatively flat to moderately sloped. Cell service varies by location, with visitors sometimes experiencing stronger connections at privately owned campgrounds than at certain state park locations.
What to do
Hiking trails: Brown County State Park features multiple trail options connecting to the campgrounds. "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 one Taylor Ridge Campground visitor. Trails vary in difficulty with some routes suitable for beginners.
Mountain biking: The park provides extensive mountain biking opportunities with specialized trails. According to one visitor at Buffalo Ridge Campground, "The mountain biking is excellent, with purpose built trails for beginner to expert (flow, berms, rollers, jumps...)." Many sites serve as convenient base camps for cyclists.
Town exploration: Nashville, Indiana offers a complement to outdoor activities with its shopping district. "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," reports a Taylor Ridge camper. The town provides dining options, artisan shops, and local crafts.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide adequate separation between sites, particularly in less developed areas. A camper at Raccoon Ridge Campground mentioned, "The spots in Taylor ridge were mostly well-spaced and felt pretty private. The pit toilets were clean and the showers were nice. Busy campground but it was very quiet still."
Clean facilities: Bathroom maintenance standards receive consistent positive feedback from visitors. At Horsemen's Campground, a reviewer noted the area is "well equipped with wooden racks to tie your horses to, water, electricity, and really nice bathrooms and porta-potty style bathrooms spread throughout."
Family-friendly activities: Multiple amenities cater to families with children. One visitor to S and H Campground observed, "They have a little section full of carnival like rides. Several playgrounds! Campground big and spacious, highly recommend."
What you should know
Site topography challenges: Terrain varies considerably throughout the region with many sites requiring leveling equipment. A Raccoon Ridge camper advised, "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."
Electric service fluctuations: During busy periods, some campgrounds experience power issues. At S and H Campground, a visitor reported, "When we pulled in it was raining and there was smoky mist hanging over the forests," describing atmospheric conditions that can affect camping comfort.
Shower facility variability: Bathroom facilities differ significantly between campgrounds and camping loops. "The shower house at the top of the loop was dated but completely adequate with hot water," mentioned one Raccoon Ridge visitor, while another noted, "The pit toilets at the back of the loop were probably the cleanest pits I've ever used."
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: Brown County State Park provides educational opportunities for children. "The nature center is really fun with animals and a bee hive that the children really enjoyed," reported one visitor, highlighting educational opportunities available within short driving distance from campsites.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas during warm months. According to a Buffalo Ridge camper, the park includes "a lodge, restaurant, playgrounds, store, pit toilets, bath houses, swimming pool (fee required)."
Playground access: Multiple play areas are available at both public and private campgrounds. At Muncie RV Resort, a visitor mentioned, "Great size playground, jump pad, and off-leash dog park available as well," listing amenities that appeal to families with children and pets.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some park entrances have restrictions that affect larger vehicles. A Buffalo Ridge camper warned, "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."
Site selection strategies: Reservations should be made with specific needs in mind. A Mystic Waters Campground visitor noted, "RV sites are full hookup and very level," highlighting an important consideration for motorhome travelers.
Utility management: Water access points may require planning. A Taylor Ridge visitor shared, "Nice to have water supply within 10 feet," referring to the convenient but not direct hookup arrangement at some sites.
