Unionville, Indiana sits on the edge of the Hoosier National Forest within Monroe County, surrounded by rolling hills and hardwood forests. The region features multiple lakes and elevations between 600-800 feet, with spring and fall being peak camping seasons. Cabin accommodations range from rustic to modern, with several state parks and private campgrounds offering sheltered options within 15-30 minute drives of Unionville.
What to do
Fishing access at Yellowwood Lake: Yellowwood State Forest has a 133-acre lake with multiple fishing spots. "There is a picnicing area for day use only right off the water which is beautiful," notes visitor Sammii D. Boat rentals are available at the forest office during open hours.
Mountain biking trails: eXplore Brown County offers extensive bike trail networks for various skill levels. "They have zip lines, paintball, arrow tag, ATVs, off-road tours, mountain biking, hiking, cabins," according to Georgeann D., making it an activity hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking trail networks: Hardin Ridge provides several trails ranging from easy to rugged terrain. "The campground has nice hiking trails and it's own boat ramp with a dock," reports Sheldon E. Three main hiking paths connect to other area trail systems, with most averaging 1-3 miles in length.
What campers like
Privacy between cabin sites: "Very beautiful yet primitive campground. All the campgrounds are numbered and have their own names," writes Sammii D. about Yellowwood State Forest. Sites can accommodate up to 6 people with enough spacing for a comfortable experience.
Clean facilities in family cabins: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained cabins at Ransburg Scout Reservation. "Located on Monroe lake, they have canoeing, row boats, sailboats, motor boats, and skiing. Lots of fun activities to do, and great hiking trails. Their mess hall is top notch," according to Margo B., who has stayed in both cabins and tent sites.
Year-round availability: Several facilities maintain cabins open throughout winter months. "We keep our camper here full-time. Close to Lake Monroe. Nice pool. Great people," shares Gary K. about Lake Monroe Village, which operates year-round with heated cabin options during colder seasons.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary by season: "Yellowwood state forest campground does not accept reservations. It is first come, first served. Drive up, select your site, and then go to the park office to pay using a self-pay envelope," explains Daisy C. Many locations have different reservation systems for cabins versus tent sites.
Water access limitations: Not all cabin locations have equal water access. "Swimming is not allowed in Yellowwood lake," notes one reviewer, while Yogi Bears at Lake Monroe offers "a huge splash park, wading pool for toddlers, and a 4 foot pool besides tons of interactive activities for kids," according to Pamela H.
Seasonal operating restrictions: "We did a drive through to check out the campground. It was $8 for day use, self pay," reports Cynthia K. about Hardin Ridge. Several locations close cabin rentals between November and April, while others maintain limited winter operations with reduced services.
Tips for camping with families
Select cabins with kid-friendly amenities: "We stayed in the cabins for a couple days. There is always so much to do, one day hiking the next we were shopping," shares Caitlin W. about Brown County-Nashville KOA. Their cabins include "a little fridge and microwave" for convenient meal preparation.
Consider activity-centric locations: "This would be a rad place to take your kids/teens or if you're into more of a festival camping atmosphere (sites are spaced out though, you're not on top of each other) this would be the perfect place," recommends Ella L. about eXplore Brown County, noting their playgrounds and activity areas.
Check bathroom proximity to cabins: "Bathrooms/showers are clean. Laundry on site. Small store and library where you can borrow books. Nice dog walk and small fenced dog area," points out Cherie B. about Brown County-Nashville KOA, highlighting facilities especially important for family stays.
Tips from RVers
Verify cabin size limits before booking: "Sites are level. Tent sites available. This place has zip-lining, paintball, arrow tag, ATVs, off-road tours, mountain biking, hiking, cabins," notes Georgeann D. about eXplore Brown County. Many cabin sites have size restrictions that limit larger group accommodations.
Accessible cabin options: "There are several ADA accessible sites," mentions Stephen & Theresa B. about Yellowwood State Forest, while noting its limitations: "This park is perfect for tent camping or smaller units; we would not recommend for larger units as most sites are small and unlevel."
Off-peak deals available: "Late fall, winter, and early spring when the nights are a little chilly, you may have the whole place to yourself, unlike Brown County State Park, where there will likely still be some campers scattered about," advises Dave E., highlighting potential savings during shoulder seasons.