Brown County State Park is a picturesque destination in Indiana that offers a wealth of activities and amenities for families with kids. From hiking trails and pony rides to playgrounds and water parks, this state park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers of all ages.
Kid-Friendly Trails in Brown County State Park
One of the highlights of Brown County State Park for families is the abundance of kid-friendly hiking trails. The Friends Trail, Discovery Trail, Trail 6 around Strahl Lake, and Trail 7 around Ogle Lake are all short, easy, and paved, making them perfect for young children to explore. These trails offer the opportunity to connect with nature, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the park.
Fun Activities for Kids
In addition to the hiking trails, Brown County State Park offers a variety of fun activities for kids. The park’s Saddle Barn provides pony rides, allowing younger children to experience the thrill of horseback riding in a safe and controlled environment. The Nature Center is another popular attraction, offering educational programs, workshops, and exhibits that teach kids about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
For those who enjoy outdoor games, the park has two tennis courts and disc golf courses at BC3 (Brown County Country Club) and Deer Run Park. The Gatesville Country Store also offers gold panning activities, where kids can search for treasure in Salt Creek.
Amenities for Families
Brown County State Park is well-equipped to accommodate families with a range of amenities. The park has large campgrounds with electric and non-electric sites, as well as a horseman campground with 70 miles of horse trails. The Abe Martin Lodge offers accommodations, dining, and conference facilities, including an indoor water park that is perfect for kids to enjoy.
The park also has several shelters available for picnics and gatherings, including the Hoosier’s Nest Shelter House. A camp store is available for supplies and essentials, and a dumping station is provided for RVs and campers.
Important Information
When planning your visit to Brown County State Park with kids, it’s important to note the following:
- RVs and vehicles towing trailers must use the West Gate Entrance (off S.R. 46, west of Nashville), while the Horsemen’s Campground entrance is on S.R. 135, five miles south of the intersection with S.R. 46.
- The park’s GPS coordinates are:
- North Gate: 39.17648001, -86.2657938
- Horse Camp: 39.19313325, -86.21656259
- Nashville, IN 47448: 39.12899036, -86.19548562
- The park office can be reached at 812-988-6406, the Nature Center at 812-988-5240, and the Saddle Barn at 812-988-8166.
Conclusion
Brown County State Park is a fantastic destination for families with kids, offering a wide range of activities and amenities that cater to all ages. Whether you’re looking to hike, explore nature, play outdoor games, or simply enjoy quality time together, this state park has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and create lasting memories with your loved ones in the great outdoors of Brown County State Park.
References
- Brown County State Park – IN.gov. Retrieved from https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parks-lakes/brown-county-state-park/
- Kid-Approved Brown County Fun – Brown County Indiana. Retrieved from https://browncounty.com/blog-spring-break-ideas-kid-approved-brown-county-fun/
- Play Areas and Tennis Courts – Brown County State Park, Indiana. Retrieved from https://www.browncountystatepark.net/play_areas_tennis_courts.htm
- Brown County with kids? : r/Indiana – Reddit. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/Indiana/comments/1btcvu7/brown_county_with_kids/
- 10 Best kid-friendly trails in Brown County State Park | AllTrails. Retrieved from https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/indiana/brown-county-state-park/kids