Complete Guide to Brown County State Park Camping (2025)

Welcome to the ultimate guide for camping in Brown County State Park—Indiana’s largest and most beloved state park! If you’ve never camped here, you’re in for a treat.

I grew up coming here with my family and have lived in Brown County since 2016, so I’ve spent plenty of time exploring these campgrounds across seasons. Whether you’re hauling an RV, pitching a tent, or bringing horses along for the ride, there’s truly something for everyone here.

This guide breaks down all the different camping options in the park, from electric sites to equestrian loops, plus insider tips and helpful details that can be hard to find on the reservation site.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just looking to unplug for the weekend, this post will help you choose the best site for your group and get the most out of your visit to Brown County State Park.

An Overview of the Brown County State Park Campgrounds

Brown County State Park has several distinct camping areas, whether you’re rolling in with an RV, pitching a tent, or booking a group site. All campgrounds are inside the park boundaries and offer varying levels of amenities—so it helps to know what each one offers before you book.

Here’s a quick overview of the main campground options: 

Main Campground

• Electric Campsites – 401 sites are available (17 that are wheelchair accessible) – spread over Raccoon Ridge, Buffalo Ridge, and Taylor Ridge Campgrounds. These sites have an electrical hookup, picnic table, and fire ring, plus access to modern restrooms and drinking water.
• Non-Electric Campsites – 28 sites available – all located in Raccoon Ridge Campground. As the name implies, these don’t have electric hookups, but they still have access to modern restrooms and drinking water, plus a picnic table and fire ring at each site.
• Rally Campground – 60 sites available, spread over 4 separate Rally Camps. These sites are designed for groups of five or more camping ‘units’ (families or groups) that are camping together.  These primitive camping sites have picnic tables, fire rings, shared pit toilets, and access to drinking water nearby. 
• Youth Tent Area – One site, which can hold up to 75 people. Designed for groups of 10+ youth campers and adult trip leaders. These primitive sites are designed for tent camping only, with picnic tables, fire rings, shared pit toilets, and nearby access to drinking water.

Horsemen’s Campground

• Horsemen’s Electric Campground – 118 sites available (1 is wheelchair accessible). Similar to the Electric Campsites covered above, in addition to horse tie-ups, these sites have an electrical hookup, picnic table, and fire ring, plus access to modern restrooms and drinking water.
  • NOTE: Limited reopening as of July 2025. A portion of electric sites (89 through 107) are now open, with a $4/night discount in place due to the closure of the shower house. Most other electric sites remain closed until major repairs are completed. Vault toilets and water hydrants are available for use.
• Horsemen’s Primitive Campground – 91 sites available. These primitive sites come with horse tie-ups, picnic tables, fire rings, shared pit toilets and access to drinking water nearby.

NOTE: The Horsemen’s Campground is in a different area of the park from the main campground area covered above and enters off of State Road 135 S. Be sure to check for updates before you arrive, as tornado recovery is still ongoing.

Now, let’s get into more details about each of the campgrounds in the Brown County State Park.

Electric Campsites

• Amenities: Every site includes an electric hookup, picnic table, fire ring, and parking area.
• Restrooms & Showers: Modern restroom and shower facilities are available nearby.
• Location: Spread across Buffalo Ridge Campground (pdf map), Raccoon Ridge Campground (pdf map), and Taylor Ridge Campground (pdf map).

Brown County State Park offers 401 electric campsites (17 sites are wheelchair accessible) across three campgrounds: Buffalo Ridge, Taylor Ridge, and Raccoon Ridge. Each site includes a 20/30/50 amp hookup (site-dependent), picnic table, fire ring, and parking space, with modern restrooms and seasonal showers located nearby.

Whether you’re camping in an RV or setting up a tent, these sites are a popular choice for visitors looking for comfort, convenience, and easy access to the park’s trail systems and amenities.

These sites are ideal for families, RV travelers, or anyone who prefers a more developed camping setup with reliable facilities and nearby access to water and restrooms.

• Specific Site Features:
  • Accessible Sites: Buffalo Ridge (500-509), Taylor Ridge (211, 277, 308, 309, 323, 349, 371, 379, 381).
  • Pull-Through Sites: Taylor Ridge (190, 214, 219, 265, 378, 409, 413, 414, 417).

NOTE: Campers with RVs or trailers must enter via the West Gate Entrance to the Brown County State Park, located off SR 46 W.  The North Gate Covered Bridge has a 9-foot clearance and a 3-ton weight limit, and is not suitable for larger vehicles.

Non-Electric Campsites

• Amenities: Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and parking area.
• Restrooms & Showers: Modern restroom and shower facilities are available nearby.
• Location: All non-electric sites are located in the semi-wooded Raccoon Ridge Campground (pdf map).

Brown County State Park offers 28 non-electric campsites, all located in the semi-wooded Raccoon Ridge Campground. These sites offer a more traditional camping experience while still providing the key comforts—each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and parking pad, with modern restrooms and seasonal showers available nearby.

If you’re looking to unplug but don’t want to completely rough it, these sites strike a good balance. They’re especially popular with tent campers and those who want a quieter setting without giving up access to bathrooms and clean water.

The location in Raccoon Ridge also puts you close to the park’s Nature Center and several easy hiking trails, making it a convenient base for exploring the park without the extra buzz of RV traffic.

NOTE: Campers with RVs or trailers must enter via the West Gate Entrance off SR 46 W.  The North Gate Covered Bridge is restricted to vehicles under 9 feet tall and under 3 tons.

Horsemen’s Electric Campsites

• Amenities: Each site includes an electric hook-up, picnic table, fire ring, and parking area.
• Horse Facilities: Each site includes a hitching post with tie-ups for up to six horses.
• Restrooms & Showers: Restroom access varies; modern showers are currently unavailable due to storm damage.
• Location: Entrance to the Horsemen’s Camp is off SR 135 S.
• MAP of the Horsemen’s Camp Primitive Campsites (pdf)

The Horsemen’s Campground at Brown County State Park offers 118 equestrian electric campsites (Site 39 is wheelchair accessible), designed specifically for riders camping with their own horses. Each site includes a 30-amp electric hookup, picnic table, fire ring, and tie-ups for up to six horses. A valid Indiana DNR Horse Tag is required for each horse.

This area of the park gives riders direct access to more than 70 miles of horse trails in Brown County State Park, making it one of the top horse camping destinations in the Midwest.

HORSE TAG REQUIREMENT: Each horse must have an Indiana DNR Horse Tag to access the trails. Read more about this requirement, and more info for planning your time at the park, at my full guide to horseback riding in the Brown County State Park.

LOCATION: The Horsemen’s Campground is located in a separate section of the park from the main campground. All access is via State Road 135 S.

Horsemen’s Primitive Campsites

• Amenities: Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and parking area.
• Horse Facilities: Each site provides a hitching post with tie-ups for up to six horses.
• Restrooms : Shared pit toilets. No modern restrooms or showers.
• Location: Entrance to the Horsemen’s Camp is off SR 135 S.
• MAP of the Horsemen’s Camp Primitive Campsites (pdf)

Brown County State Park offers 86 equestrian primitive campsites within the Horsemen’s Campground. These sites provide just the basics—picnic table, fire ring, parking space, and hitching posts for up to six horses.

There are no modern restrooms or showers, but vault toilets are available, and water access is typically provided near the gatehouse through late fall.

These sites are a great fit for equestrian campers who prefer a quieter, more rustic setup with direct access to the park’s 70 miles of horse trails. It’s a peaceful, no-frills environment that still puts you right in the middle of what makes this part of the park so special.

HORSE TAG REQUIREMENT: Each horse must have an Indiana DNR Horse Tag to access the trails. Read more about this requirement, and more info for planning your time at the park, at my full guide to horseback riding in the Brown County State Park.

LOCATION: The Horsemen’s Campground is located in a different section of the park than the main campground area. All access is via State Road 135 S.

Rally Campground

• Amenities: Fire rings and picnic tables, with drinking water available near the campground.
• Restrooms : Shared pit toilets. No modern restrooms or showers.
• Capacity: 60 sites available, spread over 4 separate Rally Camps. These sites are designed for groups of five or more camping ‘units’ (families or groups) that are camping together.
• MAP of the Rally Campground (pdf)

The Rally Campground is designed for large groups who want to camp together in a shared space. It includes 60 sites spread over four separate rally areas, each with fire rings, picnic tables, and shared pit toilets. Drinking water is available nearby to cover the basics.

• Rally 1: Holds up to 150 campers.
• Rally 2: Holds up to 75 campers.
• Rally 4: Holds up to 75 campers.
• Rally 5: Holds up to 50 campers.

These sites are specifically intended for groups of five or more camping units (families or groups camping together), making them a good fit for reunions, club trips, or other large gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to stay close with a group of friends, this campground makes it easy to spread out and enjoy Brown County together.

NOTE: Vehicles towing a trailer must use the West Gate Entrance to the Brown County State Park, located off SR 46 W.  The North Gate Covered Bridge Entrance has a height limit of 9 feet and a weight limit of 3 tons.

Youth Tent Area

• Amenities: Fire rings and picnic tables, with drinking water available near the campground.
• Restrooms : Shared pit toilets. No modern restrooms or showers.
• Capacity: Can accommodate up to 75 campers. Specifically intended for groups of 10+ youth campers and adult trip leaders.
• MAP of the Youth Tent Area (pdf)

The Youth Tent Area (also known as Rally 3) also known as Rally 3) is set aside specifically for youth groups accompanied by adult leaders. This is a more traditional, no-frills camping area that encourages outdoor learning and teamwork.

It can accommodate up to 75 campers and is a great fit for scouting trips, school outings, or any youth-focused event.

The site is for tent camping only and includes fire rings, picnic tables, and shared pit toilets. Drinking water is available nearby. It’s also reserved for public, semi-public, and not-for-profit groups, ensuring a focused, educational experience for young adventurers.

NOTE: Vehicles towing trailers must use the West Gate Entrance to the Brown County State Park, located off SR 46 W.  The North Gate Covered Bridge Entrance has a height limit of 9 feet and a weight limit of 3 tons.

Campground Amenities & Facilities at Brown County State Park

Camping at Brown County State Park comes with a wide range of amenities to make your stay more comfortable, whether you’re in an RV, pitching a tent, or bringing your horses.

Here’s what to expect across the different campground areas:

Restrooms & Showers

Modern restroom and shower facilities are available near all electric sites in the main campground.
Primitive and non-electric sites, including those in the Horsemen’s Campground, are served by shared pit toilets.

From May through October, full services are available. During the off-season, expect reduced facilities.

Water Access

Drinking water is available near most campsites, though access may be limited during the off-season. In the Horseman’s Campground, water hydrants are available until November.

Fire Rings & Picnic Tables

Every site in the park includes a fire ring and picnic table, regardless of the campground type.

Firewood is available for purchase at the camp store. (Collecting wood in the park is not allowed.)

Camp Store

Located near the entrance to the main campground (not near the Horsemen’s Camp), the camp store is open from April through October and offers:

• Firewood and ice
• Snacks and basic grocery items
• Picnic supplies
• Brown County souvenirs
• Camping essentials you may have forgotten

It’s a convenient stop, especially if you’re camping in the main area and need a few last-minute supplies.

Play Areas & Trails

Several play areas are scattered throughout the park. The largest are at the entrance to the main campground and in Buffalo Ridge. Taylor Ridge has a smaller playground as well.

For hikers and bikers, several trails connect directly to the campgrounds:

• Taylor Ridge: Trail 9 connects here and links to Trail 11.
• Raccoon Ridge: Trail 6 begins near the Nature Center, close to this campground.
• Rally Campground Area: Trails 4 and 5 start near the entrance and connect to a network of trails including Trail 7, which links to Trails 11 and 8.
• Mountain Biking Access: Limekiln Trail (Trail G) and Limekiln East (Trail O) intersect near the campground area and connect to the park’s wider MTB system.

You can view all the hiking trails and mountain biking trails on the full Brown County State Park map.

Campground Reservations, Rates & Policies

Brown County State Park camping is popular year-round, especially during fall color season, weekends, and holidays. Fortunately, the DNR makes it easy to reserve your spot in advance.

How to Make a Reservation

You can reserve a site up to six months in advance through either of the following:

• Indiana DNR’s Reservation System
• Call 1-866-6CAMP-IN

While some walk-up sites may be available, booking ahead is strongly recommended—especially in peak season or if you have a specific campground or site type in mind.

Campsite Rates

Site pricing varies by season, site type, and amenities offered. Below is a general overview of peak season rates (subject to change—check the Indiana DNR site for current info):

• Electric Campsites: $23-$33 per night during peak season, with reduced rates during the off-season.
• Non-Electric Campsites: $16-$22 per night during peak season.
• Horseman Electric Campsites: $26-$36 per night during peak season.
• Horseman Primitive Campsites: $13 per night.
• Rally Campground: $50 minimum (5 camping units at $10), and then $10 per additional camping unit.
• Youth Tent Area: $20 minimum (10 people at $2 each), and then $2 per additional person.

Peak season runs from late March through early November, with higher rates during these months. Winter camping is available at reduced rates, but amenities may be limited.

Minimum Stay Requirements

• Non-holiday weekends: 2-night minimum
• Holiday weekends: 3-night minimum
• Maximum stay: 14 nights (after which you must leave the property for at least 48 hours before returning)

Cancellations & Transfers

• Cancellations:
  • Up to the day before arrival: $10 fee
  • On or after arrival: forfeit first night’s fee
• Transfers (changing site or dates):
  • $5 fee
  • Must be made through the call center

Other Rules & Policies for Camping in Brown County State Park

To help everyone have a safe and enjoyable experience, Brown County State Park follows a standard set of camping rules. These are enforced by park staff and conservation officers, so it’s important to know what’s expected before you arrive.

General Site Rules

• Campsite capacity: Limited to 6 people and 1 primary camping unit (like a tent, trailer, or RV). One additional tent is allowed if space permits.
• Quiet hours: 11 p.m. – 7 a.m. Generators must also be off during this time.
• Check-in/check-out:
  • Check-in: 2 p.m. (camping), 4 p.m. (cabins/lodge)
  • Check-out: 12 p.m. for campsites

Fires & Firewood

• Fires are only allowed in designated fire rings.
• Do not bring in outside firewood—this helps prevent the spread of invasive insects. Firewood is available for purchase at the camp store or from approved local vendors.

Pets

• Pets are welcome but must be:
  • Leashed (6 feet or shorter)
  • Attended at all times
  • Cleaned up after

Alcohol

• Alcohol is not permitted in youth or group camp areas.
• Elsewhere, it should be used responsibly and in accordance with state park rules.

Vehicle Restrictions

• All vehicles (including those at Horsemen’s Camp) must remain on paved or designated gravel areas.
• Off-road driving or parking is not allowed, including on grass or trails.

For a complete listing of rules and policies, please visit the Indiana DNR Brown County State Park Campground website.

Prefer a Roof Over Your Head? Check Out the Brown County State Park Cabins

If camping’s not quite your speed—or you just want a little more comfort—Brown County State Park also offers several cabin and lodge options. All are located within the park boundary and come with access to the Abe Martin Lodge’s indoor water park.

Here’s a quick overview of what’s available:

• Family Cabins: Two-story modern cabins with full kitchens, living rooms, and space for up to 8 guests. Ideal for families or groups.
• Cabin Suites: Hotel-style suites with two queen beds, a sofa sleeper, and basic amenities like a mini-fridge and microwave.
• Rustic Cabins: Seasonal, motel-style cabins available spring through fall—basic but comfortable.
• Abe Martin Lodge Rooms: Traditional lodge rooms with a choice of king or two queen beds. Some open to a private outdoor patio.

👉 Looking for more details? Check out my complete guide to cabins and lodge rooms at Brown County State Park.

NOTE: The cabins and Abe Martin Lodge are located in a different area of the Brown County State Park than the campgrounds—so if you’re planning to meet up with friends who are camping, you’ll need to hop in the car or go for a pretty lengthy (uphill)  bike ride.

Unlike some campgrounds where cabins and campsites are integrated, they’re totally separate here.

Wrap-Up: Camping in Brown County State Park

With a wide range of campsite options, direct access to some of the best trails in Indiana, and the kind of scenery that makes you want to linger a little longer, Brown County State Park has earned its reputation as one of the Midwest’s top camping destinations.

Whether you’re bringing a horse, pitching a tent, or setting up an RV, the key to a great stay here is knowing your options—and planning ahead. Campsites fill fast during peak seasons, especially in the fall, and having a clear sense of what each campground offers can save you time and frustration when it comes to booking.

Now that you’ve got the lay of the land, it’s time to plan the rest of your visit. Want ideas for what to do after you set up camp? Whether it’s hiking the scenic trails, visiting the Abe Martin Lodge, or exploring nearby Nashville, there’s plenty to see and do. Enjoy your stay, and don’t forget to check out my other guides to make the most of your time in Brown County.