Brown County State Park and surrounding areas near Waverly, Indiana offer diverse camping experiences within the rolling hills of southern Indiana. Elevations in the park range from 600 to 800 feet, creating terrain that's often described as reminiscent of the Appalachian mountains. During fall color season, typically peaking in mid-October, campgrounds throughout the region experience near-capacity bookings, especially on weekends when temperatures average between 50-70°F.
What to do
Mountain biking at Brown County State Park: The park features nearly 30 miles of purpose-built mountain bike trails for all skill levels. "The mountain bike trails are fantastic, with purpose built trails for beginner to expert (flow, berms, rollers, jumps...)," notes a visitor to Buffalo Ridge Campground.
Hiking to overlooks: Multiple trails lead to scenic vistas throughout the park. "There's a trailhead that's walking distance from the campsite that leads down a beautiful trail to a lake," reports a camper who stayed at Taylor Ridge Campground.
Horseback riding: The park maintains dedicated horse trails and facilities. "We took our horses trail riding there for a week... The horsemans campground is nice and well equipped with wooden racks to tie your horses to, water, electricity," explains a regular visitor to Horsemen's Campground.
What campers like
Large, wooded campsites: Many sites offer privacy and shade. "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," shares a camper.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature pools or water access. At CERA Sports Corporation, visitors appreciate "the pool with the slide and rock wall, the mini golf, the paddle boats and the amazing playground."
Nashville shopping: The nearby town of Nashville offers numerous shopping opportunities. "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," writes a visitor to Raccoon Ridge Campground.
What you should know
North entrance restrictions: For RV camping near Waverly, Indiana, be aware of entrance 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,'" cautions a visitor.
Site leveling needs: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Some sites were fairly sloped as well. This site was a slight slope and overall I would book it again. We have a full size truck with a small travel trailer that fit perfectly," reports a Taylor Ridge camper.
Variable cell service: Reception can be spotty within the park's valleys. "No WIFI (unplug and enjoy!)" mentions one camper, suggesting visitors should plan accordingly for limited connectivity in certain areas.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Multiple options exist for water-based recreation. "We love the beautiful peaceful lake, our grandkids love the pool with the slide and rock wall, the mini golf, the paddle boats and the amazing playground," shares a visitor to CERA Sports Corporation.
Nature center programs: Educational opportunities for children are available. "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," notes a Taylor Ridge camper.
Family-friendly campground amenities: Some campgrounds offer additional activities. At S and H Campground, "They have a little section full of carnival like rides. Several playgrounds! Campground big and spacious," making it suitable for families with children of various ages.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose sites based on rig size and campground location. "Buffalo Ridge being most accommodating to larger rigs... For more secluded and wooded setting, chose Taylor Ridge (careful with larger RV's)," advises an experienced camper.
Campground loops have different characteristics: Each loop offers distinct advantages. "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."
Year-round options: Several campgrounds remain open in winter. "The park offers year around camping with reduced services in the winter months (they do have a heated bath house in the off season)," notes a camper, making RV camping near Waverly, Indiana possible throughout all seasons.
