Why Brown County State Park Is A Must-visit This Fall And What To Know

Finding My New Favorite Fall Adventure

Alright, I’ve been talking about how being new to the area has left me on a mission to discover my new favorite hiking spots. And what better time than fall to explore? The trees are bursting with color, the air is crisp, and it’s that perfect window before the leaves decide to drop for the season. So, I packed up, hit the road, and made my way to Brown County State Park — and let me tell you, I came back with plenty of feedback and a few solid tips!

The “I Forgot About the Time Change” Moment

Being new to Indiana, I completely forgot that the time changes when you start heading north through the state. So, there I was — an hour behind schedule before I even made it to the park. Lesson learned! If you’re planning a day trip to Brown County, double-check the time zones so you can make the most of your daylight, especially with sunset coming earlier this time of year.

Crowds, Cards, and Cash

Apparently, I wasn’t the only one with the great idea to spend a fall day outdoors. The line to get in was long, parking lots were filling up fast, and when they were full — they were full. I lucked out that the entrance station accepted card payments because I didn’t think to bring cash. Honestly, I’ve never paid to enter a park before — unless it was a big, bucket-list destination like the Grand Canyon. But I have to say, Brown County is absolutely worth the entry fee.

Picture-Perfect Stops and Plenty of Trails

Once you’re inside, the beauty is everywhere. There are pull-off spots every few minutes with views you just have to stop and take in. The fall colors look like a painting so bring your camera or at least make sure your phone’s charged.
The park offers trails for every type of hiker, from quick scenic strolls to longer, more challenging treks. I went with the Limekiln Trail, which was beautiful and full of character. My only surprise? It didn’t loop back to where we started — it spit us out on the main road, about a mile and a half away from where I parked. So… bonus cardio for me!

Families, Footballs, and Fall Feels

Everywhere you look, people are out enjoying the day — families snapping photos, kids tossing footballs, and even horseback riders trotting down the trails. There’s this really welcoming, community feel in the air, like everyone’s just soaking up one of Indiana’s prettiest seasons together.

My Takeaway: Plan Ahead and Go Early

If you’re heading to Brown County State Park soon, here are my takeaways:
Leave early. The park fills up fast, and you’ll want plenty of daylight.

• Plan your trails. Know which one you’re taking and where it ends.
• Bring cash just in case. It’s always good to have a backup.
• And most importantly, enjoy it. The scenery alone makes every step worth it.

I can’t wait to go back and try another trail — next time with a little more planning and a little less wandering.

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