Brown County State Park features rolling hills and valleys reminiscent of the Appalachians, with elevations reaching over 1,000 feet. Campgrounds spread across multiple ridges offer varied terrain with some sites requiring significant leveling equipment. From April through October, temperatures range from 40°F to 85°F, with fall bringing peak visitation during the colorful foliage season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Brown County State Park contains nearly 30 miles of purpose-built mountain bike trails ranging from beginner to expert level. "The mountainbike trails are fantastic, 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 camper from Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Scenic hiking: Multiple trail options connect to lookouts, lakes, and natural features. "The park is in close proximity to the artist village of Nashville, shopping, good dining and groceries. Autumn is the heavy tourist season with the changing of the leaves...breathtaking vistas from the parks elevated vantage points," explains a reviewer at Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Horse trail riding: Dedicated equestrian facilities cater to riders. "I have only been twice and we took our hours to trail ride! There are a lot of fun hills and trails that you can ride for hours which we love to do," shares a visitor to Horsemen's Campground. The park maintains a saddle barn for trail rides and separate horse camping areas.
What campers like
Fire tower access: Climbing the park's historic fire tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding forest. "While were were there we rode on a trail ride at the saddle barn. The horses were well trained and willing to let people ride them. We also went to a Raptor show that was put on at the nature center where we got to look at some interesting raptors," mentions a Buffalo Ridge camper.
Nature programs: The park runs educational programming throughout the season. "There's a lodge, restaurant, playgrounds, store, pit toilets, bath houses, swimming pool (fee required). Electric hookups with a dump station, and water to fill your tanks," notes a reviewer at Taylor Ridge Campground.
Pool and recreational areas: Olympic-sized swimming pool accommodates up to 2,000 visitors. "This campground is a must visit in Indiana. The views all around Brown County are breaktaking. While were were there we rode on a trail ride at the saddle barn," states a Buffalo Ridge visitor. The pool operates seasonally and requires separate admission fees.
What you should know
Covered bridge restrictions: Large RVs must use specific entrances. "Large rigs must access the park through the West entrance due to a low clearance covered bridge at the North entrance," advises a Buffalo Ridge reviewer. The covered bridge has a 9-foot clearance and 3-ton limit.
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require stabilization equipment. "Driving through the campground it looks like there are some sites pretty close together but ours wasn't too bad. I would say pay particular attention to the size of the site you're booking as some were pretty small. Also, some sites were fairly sloped as well," explains a Raccoon Ridge Campground visitor.
Flooding potential: Some areas experience drainage issues during heavy rain. "The campground is notorious for flooding in heavy rains. We have had as much as 4 in of water draining through our campsite," warns a Horsemen's Campground reviewer about their camping area.
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection: Choose specific loops based on your equipment and needs. "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," recommends a Taylor Ridge camper.
Advance booking: Reserve well ahead, especially for peak seasons. "This campground is busy all season so book a long time in advance. Also they are very strict about dogs even in the large open areas so beware to keep them on leash at all times. No frisbee or fetch games allowed," advises a visitor to Rally Group Campground.
Recreational facilities: Multiple options exist for children's activities. "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. The nearby shopping, wineries and restaurants are definitely a plus as well," shares a Taylor Ridge visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Research specific sites for size and privacy. "I had a great time camping here. 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. 262 was the biggest and most private site I saw when walking around. 260 is a pull through site," advises a Taylor Ridge reviewer.
Alternative RV parks: Consider nearby private options during peak times. "We keep our camper here full-time. Close to Lake Monroe. Nice pool. Great people," notes a visitor at Lake Monroe Village, which offers 182 year-round RV sites within 30 miles of Brown County State Park.
Electricity options: Most developed campgrounds provide hookups. "We spent a week there and the kids never got bored. Everyone had a blast. Will be going back soon!" shares a reviewer about CERA Sports Corporation, which operates from April through October with electric sites and full facilities for RV camping near Norman, Indiana.
