Camping at UPPER SHELTER

Location and Access

Brown County State Park is located in the hills of Brown County in Nashville, Indiana. It's often referred to as the "Little Smokies" due to its picturesque hills and fog similar to the Great Smoky Mountains. The Upper Shelter is one of the park's shelters available for use.

Reservation and Usage

Reservations for the Upper Shelter can typically be made through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources reservation system. It's important to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as facilities can be booked quickly.

Here are some general steps to reserve:

• Visit the official Indiana DNR reservation website or contact the park directly for availability.
• Select the dates you plan to visit.
• Complete your reservation by paying the applicable fees.

Facilities and Amenities

Amenities at the Upper Shelter might include:

• Picnic tables
• Grills for cooking
• Nearby restrooms
• Access to park trails
• Parking area

The shelter is usually covered to provide shade and protection from the elements, making it suitable for picnics, gatherings, and small events.

Activities in the Area

Brown County State Park offers a host of activities that can be enjoyed during your visit. Some of these include:

• Hiking on the park's extensive trail network
• Mountain biking on designated trails
• Horseback riding on miles of bridle trails (rentals available)
• Enjoying scenic overlooks of the park's hilly landscapes
• Watching for wildlife and birds native to the area

Rules and Regulations

When using the Upper Shelter and facilities in Brown County State Park, there are rules you should follow:

• Park entrance fees apply and are in addition to the shelter reservation cost.
• Alcohol is prohibited in all Indiana State Parks.
• Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
• Follow "Leave No Trace" principles, meaning you should pack out all of your garbage.
• Fires are permitted only in provided grills or designated areas.
• Noise levels should be kept to a minimum to respect wildlife and other visitors.

Nearby Attractions

Apart from the shelter itself, the park and surrounding area are full of attractions:

• Nature Center: Learn more about the local flora and fauna.
• Abe Martin Lodge: Offers lodging, a restaurant, and an indoor water park.
• T.C. Steele State Historic Site: The historic home of Indiana artist T.C. Steele is a short drive from the park.
• Nashville, Indiana: A quaint nearby town known for its art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Contact Information and Additional Resources

For more detailed information about the Upper Shelter, reservations, park features, and current park conditions:

• Contact the Brown County State Park office directly.
• Visit the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website.
• Check for up-to-date information about trail conditions, weather advisories, and any park alerts or closures before you head out.