Brown County State Park encompasses over 15,000 acres of forested hills in south-central Indiana, with elevations reaching 1,058 feet at Weed Patch Hill. The park's terrain features steep ravines and ridge tops, creating varied camping environments near Paragon. During fall months, temperatures range from 40-70°F with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for extended RV stays.
What to do
Hiking trail accessibility: At Taylor Ridge Campground, trails connect directly to campsites. "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 opportunities: The park offers purpose-built mountain bike trails ranging from beginner to expert level. "The mountain bike trails are fantastic, with purpose built trails for beginner to expert (flow, berms, rollers, jumps...)," shares a TMB camper about their experience near Buffalo Ridge.
Horseback riding excursions: Approximately 20 miles of designated equestrian trails wind through the park. "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," writes bria M. about Horsemen's Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Tent campers particularly appreciate the secluded spots at Raccoon Ridge. "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," reports Sam H.
Immaculate facilities: The park maintains exceptionally clean restrooms. "The pit toilets at the back of the loop were probably the cleanest pits I've ever used. Bonus that there are dedicated mens/womens pits," shares Melissa W. about Raccoon Ridge Campground.
Convenient camp store: Located centrally in the park, the store stocks camping necessities. "Camp store was stocked nicely. Staff was friendly," notes Amanda D., though another camper mentioned "the camp store is stocked with the basics, but has more souvenirs than food or camp needs."
What you should know
Challenging site leveling: Some campsites require additional equipment for leveling. "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," advises Amanda D. about Taylor Ridge Campground.
Storm damage concerns: Recent weather events may affect site conditions. "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. from Taylor Ridge.
Park entrance restrictions: Buffalo Ridge Campground campers should note access limitations. "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,'" advises TMB.
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: The park's nature center offers educational exhibits for children. "The nature center is really fun with animals and a bee hive that the children really enjoyed!" says Jessie W. about her experience at Taylor Ridge Campground.
Town proximity: Nashville offers family-friendly shopping and dining options. "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," mentions Chris W.
Recreational options: CERA Sports Corporation, located about 30 miles east of Paragon, offers diverse family activities. "Paddle boating, mini-golf, swimming pool, fishing lake, rental cabins and rental pop-ups," lists Cathy P., while another camper notes "my kids always look forward to the pool area with a waterslide, diving boards and a unique rock climbing wall in the deep end."
Tips from RVers
Best loops for larger rigs: Buffalo Ridge provides better access for big RVs than other loops. "Variable site options for all sizes of vehicles and modes of camping," notes TMB, while another camper advises "For more secluded and wooded setting, chose Taylor Ridge (careful with larger RV's)."
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings increased visitation to RV camping near Paragon, Indiana. "Autumn is the heavy tourist season with the changing of the leaves...breathtaking vistas from the parks elevated vantage points!" explains Stephen & Theresa B.
Site selection strategy: Research specific site details before booking. "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. Nice to have water supply within 10 feet," shares Wendy T. about her Taylor Ridge experience.
