Brown County State Park, nestled in the heart of Indiana, offers a breathtaking natural setting for couples seeking to exchange their vows. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, this park provides a variety of facilities and options to make your special day unforgettable.
Available Facilities for Weddings
Abe Martin Lodge
The Abe Martin Lodge within the park offers a range of meeting rooms, conference facilities, and private dining areas that can accommodate weddings and receptions. The seating capacity of these spaces varies from 10 to 400 guests, making it a versatile option for events of all sizes.
Nature Center Amphitheater
For couples seeking an outdoor ceremony, the Nature Center Amphitheater provides a stunning backdrop of the park’s 16,000 acres of forest. This picturesque venue can be reserved for private wedding ceremonies.
Shelter Houses
The park’s shelter houses can also be used for group events, including weddings, and can accommodate up to 50 people. The Lower Shelter, in particular, has been a popular choice for wedding receptions, offering a charming, rustic setting.
Rules and Restrictions
Reservations
Reservations are required for all facilities within Brown County State Park, including the Nature Center Amphitheater and shelter houses. It’s essential to plan ahead and secure your desired venue in advance.
Capacity
The seating capacity for the Abe Martin Lodge ranges from 10 to 400 people, while the shelter houses can accommodate up to 50 guests. It’s important to consider the size of your wedding party when selecting the appropriate venue.
Catering
The banquet department at the Abe Martin Lodge can provide catering services for private meals, snacks, and breaks. They can also cater barbecues or meals at the shelter houses for groups of 50 or more.
Recreational Activities
In addition to the wedding facilities, Brown County State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, such as horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking, which can be coordinated for your wedding guests.
Parking and Access
During peak seasons, parking and access to the park may be limited, so it’s recommended to plan ahead and allow extra time for your wedding day.
Elopement Options
Brown County Elopement Packages
For couples seeking a more intimate celebration, Brown County State Park offers elopement packages that include officiant services, custom ceremony scripts, and photography. These packages can be customized to fit the couple’s preferences and can accommodate up to 25 guests.
Elopement Locations
Within the park, popular elopement locations include the Nature Center Overlook and secluded areas surrounded by the beautiful forest.
Contact Information
Abe Martin Lodge
- Phone: (877) 265-6343 (Group Sales) or (812) 988-4418 (Front Desk)
Just the Two of Us (Wedding Officiant)
- Phone: (317) 416-7777
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM; Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM; Sunday, 12 PM to 4 PM (Closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Thanksgiving)
MARRY ME IN INDY (Elopement Services)
- Contact information not provided, but available on the website.
Costs
Abe Martin Lodge
The cost of using the lodge’s facilities varies depending on the event and the number of guests.
Brown County Elopement Packages
The cost of these packages starts at $750, which includes officiant services, a custom ceremony script, and photography.
MARRY ME IN INDY
The cost of elopement services ranges from $250 to $350, depending on the day of the week.
Real-Life Incidents and Statistics
Photographer’s Experience
A photographer once had a car accident on the way to a wedding at Brown County State Park but still managed to capture the beautiful moments of the day.
Number of Weddings
On one Saturday in October, there were seven weddings scheduled in the park, not including random elopements.
Reference Links
- https://browncounty.com/weddings-and-events/
- https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/inns/abe-martin-lodge-at-brown-county-state-park/groups/
- https://indianapolisofficiants.com/brown-county-elopement/
- https://www.kaseyloftin.com/outdoor-wedding-in-brown-county-state-park/
- https://www.marrymeinindy.com/elope-in-indy/elope-in-indiana-brown-county-elopements-nashville-indiana