Brown County State Park campgrounds are situated at elevations of 720 to 880 feet in the rolling hills of southern Indiana. The region averages 47 inches of annual rainfall, with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s. Forest campgrounds near Waverly maintain a cooler microclimate with temperatures averaging 3-5 degrees lower than surrounding areas due to extensive tree cover.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: Morgan-Monroe State Forest's Oak Ridge Camping Area connects to multiple hiking trails where dogs can join their owners. "This is probably the best state forest in the state of Indiana. The property is well maintained. There are a lot of trails to hike 2 of them are over 10 miles (lower gap and three lakes)," notes Ron H. in his review of Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Bluegrass music events: Bill Monroe Memorial Music Park hosts regular concerts and festivals throughout the camping season. "This is the Bill Monroe Bluegrass Music Park & Campground near Nashville, IN. Very nice facility with nice stage for events," explains Cinda A. about Bill Monroe Memorial Music Park & Campground.
Boat rentals and fishing: Yellowwood State Forest offers affordable boat rentals for guests wanting to enjoy the 133-acre lake. "We have also had lots of fun renting a rowboat, and being out on the water," shares Margo B., who frequently visits the forest with her family.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: The quieter Oak Ridge Camping Area provides escape from busier campgrounds. "This campground typically remains available as an overflow camping area but is still a good spot," explains Joe B. about the less crowded option.
Clean, accessible facilities: Lake Haven Retreat maintains high standards for their amenities. "Their facilities were also awesome. We had 50amp service and measured 119vac with both a/c units running," notes Todd L. about Lake Haven Retreat, emphasizing the reliable electric service.
Proximity to Nashville shopping: Brown County State Park puts campers minutes from the artist village of Nashville. "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," explains Chris W. about his experience at Taylor Ridge Campground.
What you should know
Dog-walking accessibility: While many campgrounds are pet-friendly, facilities vary. At Indy Lakes Campground, one camper noted practical concerns: "The 'dog walk' is a strip of grass by the very busy street."
Winter camping availability: Yellowwood State Forest maintains open camping year-round with self-registration. "When tent camping and want something quiet and a place with great trails, this is a good place to go. Even though it's hot outside today, there's lots of shade and a breeze," reports Ginger T.
Tent camping limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate tent campers. "They used to have awesome tent camping sites, but they stopped allowing tent camping. RV/camper's are the only thing they allow now," warns Chris W. about Johnson County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: The Indianapolis KOA offers water features specifically designed for children. "The pool is delightful especially for littles who will enjoy the fountains and big pouring bucket," says Keri in her review of Indianapolis KOA.
Nature programs: Brown County State Park runs educational programs. "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," shares Jessie W.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There's a playground at the entrance of Mason Ridge campground and a fire tower," mentions Ginger T. about Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Buffalo Ridge Campground requires careful site selection. "If you can, try and get a spot towards the front of the campground as the back has sites that are pretty steep," advises Logan E.
Access restrictions: Large RVs should plan their route carefully. "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 TMB about Brown County State Park.
Dump station limitations: Don N. notes practical concerns at Morgan-Monroe: "The only drawbacks were that the vault toilets are in pretty bad condition and the dump station hose did not have a connection to allow me to flush the blackwater holding tank."
