Brown County State Park campsites spread across three campground areas in the rolling hills about 30 miles southwest of Mooresville. Most campsites require leveling equipment as the terrain varies significantly throughout the region. Winter camping remains available at reduced capacity, with Buffalo Ridge maintaining a heated bathhouse during off-season months.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Brown County State Park offers purpose-built mountain bike trails ranging from beginner to expert level. "The mountain bike trails are fantastic, with something for every skill level. Nashville is just down the road and has a lot of small shops to go through and a micro brew/distillery that has good beer and food," notes a visitor to Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Hiking to nearby lakes: Access multiple trail systems directly from campsites. "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," according to a Taylor Ridge Campground visitor.
Seasonal lake activities: Two man-made lakes provide fishing and paddleboating opportunities during warmer months. Visitors to CERA Sports Corporation mention enjoying "the beautiful peaceful lake... the paddle boats" among their recreational options.
Horse trail riding: The Horsemen's Campground section provides dedicated equestrian facilities. "We took our horses to trail ride. There are a lot of fun hills and trails that you can ride for hours which we love to do," reports one camper at Brown County State Park.
What campers like
Varied terrain and views: The elevation changes create distinct camping experiences across the different campground loops. "This beautiful park does not seem to belong in the Midwest. Wonderful park, easily mistaken for Appalachia! Variable site options for all sizes of vehicles and modes of camping," says a camper at Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Shaded campsites: Many sites, particularly in Taylor Ridge, offer tree cover that provides natural cooling. "The sites around us were spacious and had a lot of mature trees," according to a visitor who noted this as a significant advantage during summer months.
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance of shower houses and restrooms receives consistent praise. "Very clean bathrooms and shower houses," mentions a Taylor Ridge camper, while another at Raccoon Ridge Campground states, "All the rest rooms are spotlessly clean."
Historical features: "The park that is set in massive hills and valleys has lots of different trails, a nature center, a pool, a lodge with a pool/park, large and small cabins for rent, various overlooks, playgrounds, historical sites, a fire watch tower you can go in," according to one visitor's comprehensive list of park amenities.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campsite terrain varies dramatically across the three camping areas. "Some sites were pretty small. Also, some sites were fairly sloped as well. I would say pay particular attention to the size of the site you're booking," advises a Taylor Ridge Campground visitor.
Campground differences: Each camping area has distinct characteristics. "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."
Campground access routes: Large RVs must use specific entrances. "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 camper.
Weather impacts: The park's terrain makes it susceptible to water issues during heavy rain. "When we pulled in it was raining and there was smoky mist hanging over the forests," reports one camper, while another mentions, "The park is notorious for flooding in heavy rains."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple swimming areas provide family-friendly cooling options. At CERA Sports Corporation, campers appreciate that "our grandkids love the pool with the slide and rock wall, the mini golf, the paddle boats and the amazing playground."
Wildlife education: "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," according to a Brown County State Park visitor, highlighting the educational opportunities.
Variety of accommodation options: Families can choose from tent sites, RV hookups, or cabin rentals. At S and H Campground, "they have a little section full of carnival like rides. Several playgrounds! Campground big and spacious, highly recommend."
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds schedule family-oriented events. "Looking for a monthly campsite in the Indianapolis area proved to be a challenge. We were so unsure about staying here as reviews we hit or miss. Decided to take a gamble and give it a try and it's been great! Friendly service, Lots to do for the kiddos. Plenty of amenities on the weekend."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many sites throughout the region require additional equipment. "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," notes a Taylor Ridge camper.
Utility service quality: Electrical service can fluctuate during peak usage periods. A visitor at Indianapolis KOA states: "When everyone started turning on their AC, my surge protector kept kicking due to voltage swings."
Ease of access: Site accessibility varies significantly across campgrounds. "The site we stayed in was lovely. It was backed up to the edge of the woods which made for a lovely view. We have a full size truck with a small travel trailer that fit perfectly," reports one camper at Taylor Ridge.
Location convenience: Some campgrounds offer strategic positioning for attractions. "We spent a week there and the kids never got bored. Everyone had a blast," shares a CERA Sports Corporation camper, while another at Indianapolis KOA mentions it's "20 minutes to downtown attractions," making it practical for city visits.
