Brown County State Park

4.51

64 reviews

1405 SR 46W P.O. Box 608, NASHVILLE, Indiana, 47448, United States

Featured in:Fall Camping Indiana#1 Forest Camping Indiana#2 Family-Friendly Campgrounds Indiana +4 more

Quick Facts

1,096 ft

Price

$12 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Indiana State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,096 ft

Price

$12 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Indiana State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Brown County State Park

$12.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $12 for primitive sites to $35 for electric hookup sites during peak season. Reduced rates apply for winter camping.

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.51

Top-Rated

Based on 64 reviews

49 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanhikingwell-maintained

Some mention

noise

"User reviews of Brown County State Park are overwhelmingly positive, praising the cleanliness of facilities, variety of trails, and overall camping experience. However, some minor complaints about traffic noise and tight spaces were noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1405 SR 46W P.O. Box 608, NASHVILLE, Indiana, 47448, United States

Brown County State Park

1405 SR 46W P.O. Box 608, NASHVILLE, Indiana, 47448, United States

Driving directionsFamily Campground: All RVs and vehicles towing trailers must use the park's West Entrance located off SR 46 two miles west of Nashville, Indiana. The North Entrance east of Nashville has a historic Covered Bridge with a 9-foot height clearance and 3-ton weight limit; oversized vehicles are prohibited from entering here. Horseman Campground uses a separate entrance off SR 135, located five miles south of the intersection with SR 46. Note that GPS directions to Brown County State Park may not always send you to the correct entrances.

The park is accessible via paved roads, but certain entrances have restrictions, such as the North Entrance which has a height clearance of 9 feet and a 3-ton weight limit due to its historic Covered Bridge.

Nearby places

Nashville, Indiana (0 miles, adjacent to park)

Bloomington, Indiana (16 miles)

Indianapolis, Indiana (58 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, fuel, camping supplies, and laundry services are available within 10 miles of the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Brown County State Park

Each season paints Brown County in dramatic new colors and experiences. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, where crisp air and frost-kissed mornings invite cozy campfire gatherings. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, while summer brings warm days perfect for hiking and exploration. But it's autumn that truly steals the show – when millions of leaves burst into a spectacular symphony of gold, crimson, and amber, drawing visitors from across the Midwest to witness nature's grand finale.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Wide activity options, staffed pool and busy summer use noted in reviews.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 2% in IN

Fall highlighted as the most popular season due to stunning, destination-worthy foliage.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Trails and wild landscape make spring a good season for hiking and renewal.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round with reduced facilities; some positive winter camping mentions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season dates are unspecified, but summer months are likely based on general camping trends.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round, but facilities and rates are reduced during the winter season (early November through late March).

About Brown County State Park

Discover Indiana's crown jewel of outdoor adventure at Brown County State Park, where nearly 16,000 acres of pristine wilderness await your exploration. As the state's largest park, this natural wonderland caters to every camping style, whether you're seeking a back-to-basics experience at rustic campsites or prefer the convenience of modern electric hookups. Here, families gather around crackling campfires, solo adventurers find solitude among towering trees, and everyone discovers their perfect outdoor escape.

Brown County State Park offers a wide variety of camping accommodations, from tent and RV camping to group sites and horseman campgrounds.

Historical SignificanceAffectionately known as the 'Little Smokies,' Brown County State Park has captured hearts for generations with its stunning resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains. This beloved destination has become Indiana's premier fall color sanctuary, where families create annual traditions and photographers chase the perfect shot. The park's cultural legacy runs deep, serving as inspiration for countless artists and nature lovers who've found magic in these ancient hills.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Brown County in dramatic new colors and experiences. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, where crisp air and frost-kissed mornings invite cozy campfire gatherings. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, while summer brings warm days perfect for hiking and exploration. But it's autumn that truly steals the show – when millions of leaves burst into a spectacular symphony of gold, crimson, and amber, drawing visitors from across the Midwest to witness nature's grand finale.

ElevationRising and falling through the landscape, the park's varied terrain creates endless vistas and hidden valleys waiting to be discovered. Each trail leads to new perspectives, where the changing elevation reveals scenic overlooks and secluded hollows that make every hike an adventure.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape that time forgot, where rugged hills rise like ancient sentinels and narrow ridges guide you through a maze of natural beauty. Steep slopes plunge into mysterious gullies, while morning fog dances through deep ravines, creating an ethereal atmosphere reminiscent of the Great Smoky Mountains. In autumn, the entire landscape explodes into a breathtaking canvas of color, with maple, oak, and hickory trees competing for your attention in brilliant displays of red, orange, and gold.

Geological RegionWelcome to the 'Little Smokies,' where ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of rugged beauty. Carved by the powerful meltwaters of retreating glaciers during the last ice age, Brown County's terrain tells a story millions of years in the making. Today, these steep slopes and fog-shrouded ravines create a mystical atmosphere that earned the park its famous nickname, offering visitors a taste of Appalachian grandeur in the heart of Indiana.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2PM Monday–Saturday
5 PM Sundays and holidays

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limits are enforced
details not specified in authoritative sources.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Exact guest limits are not specified.

Groups

The group camping site details, such as maximum number of occupants and vehicles allowed, are not explicitly mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampground layout includes loops, sections, and areas with varying amenities.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are available year-round via the Indiana State Parks website.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not specified; reservations are recommended.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online; further details on penalties are not specified.

AccessibilityADA accessible campsites are available within the park, but further details on specific accessibility features or accommodations are not provided.

Site SizeSites in the campground vary in size, with options available for both large RVs and tents. Some sites are noted to have shade trees, while others are more exposed to the sun.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. One reviewer noted that 'spaces were a bit tight but generally enough room,' while others described campsites as 'nicely spaced.

Recommended SitesSites near the edge of the woods are recommended for privacy and natural ambiance.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Brown County State Park offers a plethora of recreational activities, making it a popular destination year-round. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and cultural programs. The park's scenic vistas make it particularly appealing for nature photography.

HikingThe park features a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. User reviews highlight the extensive network of trails, with one reviewer stating, 'You can't beat the variety of trails for hiking and mountain biking.'

FishingFishing is permitted in the park's lakes. While detailed information on the types of fish available is not provided, the presence of 'Fishing Lake' suggests opportunities for anglers.

SwimmingSwimming is available at the park's pool, which features seasonal lifeguards. However, one reviewer expressed a desire for better pools: 'Wish they had better pools.'

BikingThe park offers mountain biking trails of varying difficulty, which are highly praised by users. One mentioned, 'You can't beat the variety of trails for hiking and mountain biking.'

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a popular activity, with opportunities to see diverse species within the park's extensive forestland.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsCultural activities and exhibits are available within the park, adding an educational dimension to the camping experience.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome reviews note confusing traffic directions within campground loops.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed; fire rings provided.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours not specified.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services within 10 miles include first aid supplies and a hospital. The Ranger Station can also assist with emergencies.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available at the campground, but specific details regarding their locations or schedules were not mentioned in the source materials.

Water FeaturesNearby fishing lake and water features mentioned in amenities.

Camp HostCampground hosts are available on-site.

Weather at Brown County State Park

Reviews

4.5

64 reviews

Top-Rated

Brown County State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Brown County State Park are overwhelmingly positive, praising the cleanliness of facilities, variety of trails, and overall camping experience. However, some minor complaints about traffic noise and tight spaces were noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 64 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, variety of recreational activities including hiking and biking, well-maintained bathrooms, and ease of making camping reservations online.

Based on 64 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mentioned traffic noise near main roads, tight spaces at certain campsites, and the need for better swimming facilities.

Based on 64 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend trying the Abe Martin Lodge for its excellent food and ensuring you enter the campground through the correct gate, especially for oversized vehicles.

Based on 64 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall is highlighted as the most popular season due to the park's stunning fall foliage. Winter camping is available with reduced facilities. Summer reviews often note the variety of outdoor...

Based on 64 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Bathrooms and showers good. Some older but clean and well kept up.' 2. 'The park is very large and the campground is a long way from the entrance. Lots of hiking and biking from this area.' 3....

Based on 64 reviews