Experience Indiana’s largest state park! Nicknamed the “Little Smokies” because of the area’s resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains, Brown County State Park encompasses nearly 16,000-acres of rugged hills, ridges, and fog-shrouded ravines. The Brown County State Park is a traditional fall color hot spot, with nearly 20-miles of tree-lined roads and many scenic vistas overlooking miles of uninterrupted forestland. The park was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2021 as the largest historic district in Indiana.

Inside the park, you’ll find the rustic Abe Martin Lodge, which offers accommodations that include hotel rooms, cabins, dining, and conference facilities, along with an indoor water park. That’s not all, the State Park is home to large campgrounds, fun hiking trails, nationally-recognized mountain biking trails, a saddle barn for guided horse rides, a horseman campground, and a Nature Center that offers programs and activities year-round. If you’re up for the challenge, take the Seven Vista Challenge to catch the best views in the park!

Interested in fishing, kayaking, or canoeing? The Brown County State Park has two lakes – Strahl and Ogle. Rowboats and electric trolling motors permitted on Ogle lake. Boats/kayaks/canoes/paddleboats need DNR Lake Permit which is $5 a year. Strahl Lake is not accessible to boats. Fishing is okay in both lakes but a State Fishing License is required (purchase here). Licenses & DNR permits available at the Park Office. There is no boat rental available in the park.

Download Brown County State Park map