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Indiana
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Indiana State Parks

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USA Parks
Indiana
Southern Region
Brown County State Park
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Brown County State Park Strahl Lake © David Hyde
Brown County State Park Limestone Bridge © David Hyde
Limestone Bridge along Trail 2
Brown County State Park Ogle Lake © David Hyde
Quite morning along Trail 7
Brown County State Park Ogle Lake © David Hyde
Cool fall morning in October, fog rolling off Ogle Lake with the sun poking through to show just enough Fall color to tease you
Brown County State Park the most amazing views © Wayne Fall
Out fishing with the family and finished the day with a picnic and wonderful view
Brown County State Park © Donald D Willin
Fall Scenery
Brown County State Park Ogle Lake © Donald D Willin
Scenery
Brown County State Park Strahl Lake © Tammy Davis
Tammy Davis
Brown County State Park family riding in Brown Co © Mary Larimore
A cold, crisp day for riding.
Brown County State Park shell creek © Mary Larimore
Brown County State Park awesome hillside © Mary Larimore
Brown County State Park © ROBERT L. JACOBS
Brown County State Park creek © Mary Larimore
We had a flock of turkeys fly over the creek in front of us here
Brown County State Park sitting around the camp fire © Mary Larimore
Brown County State Park fathery and son riding © Mary Larimore
riding the beautiful trails of Brown County
Brown County State Park Ogle Lake at Brown County SP © Ken Stalcup
From the trail on the north side of the lake
Brown County State Park © Ben Prepelka
Brown County State Park Hesitation Point © Joseph Herring
This may be the most spectacular vista in the park.
Brown County State Park © Ben Prepelka
Brown County State Park Lake at Brown Cty SP © Ken Stalcup
Early morning at the lake
Brown County State Park yellow wood lake © Wayne Fall
Nov.1,2015 cold but one of the most beautiful days ever
Brown County State Park Water Fall © Tammy Davis
Water fall at Strahl Lake Tammy Davis
Brown County State Park Looking down from Fire Tower © Joseph Herring
Heres advice if you want to climb the sixty-foot firetower - dont look down when youre near the top
Brown County State Park Ogle Lake © Tammy Davis
Brown County State Park Vista unnamed © Joseph Herring
This is one of the first vistas you will come to if you enter the state park by the north entrance.
Brown County State Park © ROBERT L. JACOBS
Brown County State Park © betsy wells-gwynn
Brown County State Park © betsy wells-gwynn
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BROWN COUNTY STATE PARK
BROWN COUNTY STATE PARK
1810 State Road 46 East
Nashville, Indiana   47448
(lat:39.1464 lon:-86.229) map location

Phone: (812) 988-6406
Toll Free: 800-457-8283
Reservations: 812-988-6406
Located in the beautiful hills of Brown County off Highway 46, you will especially enjoy the variety offered in Indiana's largest state park, including nearly 20 miles of roads, with numerous scenic vistas.

Comfortable accommodations at the rustic Abe Martin Lodge, large campgrounds, hiking trails, mountain bike trails, interpretive services, and extensive horse riding facilities are some of the things that make Brown County State Park popular year round.
History of the Area
Abe Martin has become a favorite son of Brown County and of the State Park, which includes Weed Patch Hill and its surroundings. The Abe Martin Lodge commemorates his connection with the county.

For twenty-five years, from 1905-1930, "Abe Martin" was the mouthpiece for Kin Hubbard's daily quips in The Indianapolis News, which, accompanied by sketches of Abe and his friends in action, were syndicated across the nation. Hubbard was born in Bellefontaine, Ohio, and settled in Indianapolis, starting the Abe Martin Character in 1904. At first Abe Martin belonged to no particular locality, but on February 3, 1905, he announced, "I'm goin' ter move ter Brown County Tewmorrow," and the next day he was depicted in a wagon piled high with household goods.

His comment was, "By cracky, it's sum travelin' ter git ter Brown County." The reason for the move lay in the fact that the steep hills and the general "picturesque-ness" of that area lent themselves to humerous exaggeration and provided the material Hubbard liked for his pictorial backgrounds.

Gradually many of Abe's neighbors came into being, to appear in the pictures and text. The cottages of the Abe Martin Lodge in the Park bear the names of these characters.

Much of Hubbard's humor is as timely now as it was during its heyday, from 1905 to 1930. Will Rogers called Kin Hubbard "America's greatest humorist."

Hubbard's cartoons played a significant part in drawing the attention of artists and tourists to Brown County. They, in turn, have made the area world famous. In dedication to his memory, the Department of Natural Resources built Abe Martin Lodge in 1932 on Kin Hubbard Ridge, naming the cottages after his principle characters.
Passes
State park permits can be purchased at any of the state park property locations across Indiana. State park permits can also be ordered online by visiting the INDINIA ENTRANCE FEE web page.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
GeneralLand, acres15,000
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Picnickingyes
 Picnic Sheltersyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bridle Trailsyes
 Nature Centeryes
 Nature Programsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitive, #28
 Electric Sites, #401
 Flush Toiletsyes
 Dumpstationyes
 Showersyes
 Camp Commissaryyes
 Group Camp, capacity60
 Youth Group Campyes
 Horsemen Campsites, #204
WinterIce Fishingyes
 Activitiesyes
AccommodationsLodge Rooms, #84
 Family Cottagesyes
 Tennisyes
 Outdoor Swimming Poolyes
 Restaurantyes
Camping
* RVs Use West Gate * Electric / 401 sites * Non-Electric / 28 sites * Rally / 60 sites o Horsemen's - Entrance off 135 South + Electric / 118 sites + Non-Electric / 86 sites * Youth Tent Areas * Camp Store * Dumping Station
Lodge
Abe Martin Lodge is located in Brown County State Park on a wooded preserve among rolling hills, comprising more than 15,000 acres. The largest state park in Indiana, it includes Weed Patch Hill, which - at an elevation of 1,058 feet - is one of the highest points in the state.

Built in 1932 of hand-hewn native stone and oak timbers cut in the park, the Main Lodge has two spacious and comfortable lobbies with two fireplaces. A rustic dining room makes eating a pleasure. Abe Martin says, "You just can't go away hungry."

There are thirty rooms in the Main Lodge, with another 54 in the new addition.

These rooms and the twenty housekeeping cabins are open all year. The original cabins built in 1932 are electrically heated and air-conditioned. These units are open from April until November.
Swimming
1. Brown County State Park offers two public swimming pools, open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
2. The large pool includes a water slide and diving board for added fun.
3. A smaller wading pool is available specifically designed for younger children's safety and enjoyment.
4. Lifeguards are on duty at all times during operating hours to ensure swimmer safety in both pools.
5. Poolside amenities include changing rooms, restrooms, showers and lockers for personal belongings storage convenience.

6. The park does not allow swimming in its lakes or ponds due to potential hazards such as wildlife or currents.

7. Swimming lessons can be arranged with certified instructors upon request during the summer season.

8. Pool passes are available daily or seasonal basis providing unlimited access throughout the summer months.

9. Snack bars near each of these facilities offer refreshments like drinks & snacks after an energetic swim session.
10. Private parties may rent out either of the pools outside normal operation hours by contacting park management ahead of time.
Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. The 2-acre Strahl Lake, which is located within the park boundaries, allows non-motorized boats only. This includes canoes and kayaks that are available to rent on-site during summer months or you may bring your own. However, all privately owned watercraft must be registered with the Department of Natural Resources before use in public waters.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in two large lakes, Ogle and Strahl. Species include largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and channel catfish. Fishing boats are available for rent but bring your own bait and tackle. A valid Indiana fishing license is required.



Picnicking
1. Brown County State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills.
2. There are two large, reservable shelters for group picnics.
3. Picnic spots offer beautiful views of the park's natural scenery.
4. Some picnic sites have nearby playgrounds for children to enjoy.
5. The Strahl Lake area provides a serene setting for lakeside picnicking.

Bicycling
In this popular Indiana destination, biking options abound. However, caution is advised due to varying trail difficulties.

The park offers over 30 miles of mountain bike trails that cater to all skill levels.

Beginners can enjoy the North Tower Loop's gentle slopes and wide paths for a leisurely ride.

Intermediate riders may prefer Hesitation Point Trail with its steep climbs and fast descents requiring more technical skills.

For advanced cyclists, Schooner Trace presents challenging terrain including tight turns and rocky sections demanding high fitness level.

Riders should always wear helmets as some areas are quite rugged posing potential risks even for experienced bikers.

Bike rentals are available on-site but availability isn't guaranteed during peak seasons or weekends so plan accordingly.

Remember: safety first! Always follow posted signs regarding trail conditions which could change rapidly depending on weather events.

Lastly, respect nature by sticking to marked trails thus preserving local flora/fauna while preventing soil erosion in these beautiful woods.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy over 200 species of birds, including warblers during migration season. The park offers birding hikes and events throughout the year. A variety of habitats such as forests, lakes and meadows attract diverse birdlife. Raptors like hawks are commonly seen in fall months while winter brings sightings of woodpeckers and finches.
Area Attractions
Nearby Nashville, Indiana, features quaint specialty shops, art galleries, entertainment, and historic homes. A visit to T.C. Steele State Memorial or Yellowwood State Forest make your visit complete.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
March 7 Broun county stat park by layladenney
park review stars; one to five I love it
April 17 great horsetrails by marine 59
park review stars; one to five great park only bad thing the store at camp ground is very expensive esp. the price of wood, thousands of acres of wood and they beat you up on wood prices.!!
July 29 our favorite place to horseback ride by Shelia McDonald
park review stars; one to five Brown County is my number 1 place to come and camp and ride my horse. It is so lovely year round .I have been coming up there for 15 years.
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Bill Monroe Music Park & Campground
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Indiana
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Indiana State Parks

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