Brown County State Park
Indiana · State Park · Midwest Region
Brown County is called the 'Little Smokies' because its rolling hardwood ridges and misty hollows genuinely resemble the Great Smoky Mountains at a smaller scale. The fall color here is among the best in the Midwest, sugar maples, red oaks, and sassafras turn the ridges brilliant orange and crimson in October. The artist colony town of Nashville, Indiana sits right outside the park entrance, making it a full destination rather than just a park stop.
- Best season
- May–October, with October peak for fall color
- Permit required
- Yes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Max group size
- 400 people
Permit Information
Indiana DNR offers two wedding options: (1) Shelter house reservations ($25–$75, bookable up to 1 year in advance, phone 1-866-622-6746), Brown County has 8 reservable shelters with electricity and tables. Nature Center amphitheater is popular for smaller ceremonies. (2) Abe Martin Lodge provides full wedding venue services with Melodeon Hall (up to 400 guests), Bridal Suite, and catering — contact Group Sales at 877-265-6343 or abemartinlodgesales@dnr.in.gov. No separate event permit appears t…