Brown County, Indiana, just 50 miles south of Indianapolis, has plenty of recreation options. Fish for bass and bluegill at the huge Monroe Lake Reservoir, and cook your catch over a fire at Brown County State Park. Shop for down-home bargains at the mom-and-pop shops that line the back streets of Nashville, Indiana, the county seat. In the evening, take in professional entertainment at the Playhouse in Nashville.
Park and Ride
Traipse around the many horse trails through the Brown County countryside. Spend a weekend at a dude ranch, or rent your steed at the state park. There are more than 70 miles of bridle trails at Brown County State Park, but be careful, because most of the terrain is steep. After your ride, settle in for the night at one of the horse campgrounds, most open year-round. If more gentle riding is your thing, check out the many stables offering pony and guided rides for the novice or fainthearted rider.
An Evening Out
Follow the "Entertainment Trail" of dancing marionettes, wine tasting, live theater and country, bluegrass and rock music. Kick up your heels line dancing, or take in a slow-dance with your honey under the stars. Entertainment here is a hot ticket on a cool Indiana night.
The Twisted Trail
Winding roads snake through the county, offering a surprise at every bend. Taste the world's only Shagbark Hickory Syrup, and sample the area's wines. Check out the artists painting, throwing pots and creating one-of-a-kind rugs. See craftspeople spin and knit yarn into a snuggly pair of socks.
Festivities
There are festivals throughout the year. The Bill Monroe Bean Blossom Bluegrass Festival is the world's oldest continuous bluegrass festival. The Annual Indiana Heritage Arts Exhibit and Sale is a juried show that showcases the work of variety of artists; there is no admission, and the art is for sale. There also is a flower show, a car show and an Old Settlers Festival, among other events.
Park it and Relax..or Not
Light a bonfire, listen to the crickets, make some s'mores. Or bike with world-class mountain bikers ascending the steep, rugged terrain. Brown County State Park is the top tourist attraction in the county and Indiana's largest state park. Its 16,000 acres of trails, lakes, forests and campgrounds bring families back year after year. As of 2010, park entry fees are $5 for Indiana residents and $7 for non-residents, per vehicle.
Member Comments