Wilson Creek Recreation Area

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Managed by the Army Corps of Engineers as part of the Green River Lake area for campgrounds near Campbellsville, Wilson Creek Recreation Area sits along a small stream in a wooded valley near Green River Lake in Elk Horn, Kentucky. The campground holds roughly five to six sites arranged along the creek, each with a picnic table and fire ring. Sites are shaded by the surrounding forest canopy, and site 4 in particular draws repeat visitors for its tree cover.

Water access is the defining draw here. A short walk from camp leads to the lake, where anglers report fish activity along the shoreline and a gravel beach provides a spot to cool off. The old ORV trails that once ran through the area now serve as hiking routes through the woods. Reviewers consistently note the grounds are cleaned daily, including the pit toilets and trash cans at each site, though campers who visit in summer heat recommend bringing air freshener for the outhouses.

Firewood is scarce. Most accessible deadfall in the surrounding woods has already been gathered, so bringing your own supply is a practical necessity rather than a suggestion. Cell service is listed as available. The campground has also seen regular overnight patrols, which multiple reviewers mention as a notable feature. Nearby alternatives include Wilson Creek Access - DFWR to the west and Pikes Ridge - Green River Lake a couple of miles away. Wilson Creek suits tent campers and hammock users who want direct creek-side access and a low-density site count, with fishing and hiking within easy reach.

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Map & DirectionsWilson Creek Recreation Area is located in Kentucky near Campbellsville

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

37.28578394 N
85.25560528 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Wilson Creek Recreation Area

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5 Stars

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1 Star

66%
17%
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4.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Campers regularly cited this hidden gem's peaceful wooded setting along a creek with well-maintained basic facilities. The limited number of primitive sites ensures a quiet experience. Note: permanently closed as of October 2023.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Oct. 6, 2023

Campground Closed as of October 1, 2023

As of October 1, 2023 Wilson Creek Campground was closed permanently by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Green River Lake. It is now under the control of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR). Any future opening, for instance, during hunting season, will be determined by KDFWR. Look for information on their website: https://fw.ky.gov.

Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Jul. 20, 2021

Great primitive camping

I have camped several times here over the years was there last week for 5 days there are 5 camps sites out house type toilets and trash cans all get cleaned daily when it gets hot u may wanna bring airfreshner to the toilets there is a picnic table and a place to build a fire. Wood in the forest woods is very limited most has been taken so bring fire wood and plenty of water we stayed at site 4 this time it's shaded and nice. There is a little stream that runs beside camp grounds I saw a review that said there weren't trash cans there are 1 trash can per campsites there are 5 and one at each bathroom always has been .

Site4
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Wilson Creek Recreation Area by Theresa R., July 20, 2021
Reviewed Jun. 4, 2020

More primitive sites

This is a very small gravel/dirt lot in a valley in the woods along a creek near the Green River Lake. Beautiful wooded area with a small intermittent stream that runs beside the sites. Pit toilets, fire rings, and tables. No trash cans so pack it all out!

Plenty of swimming, hiking, fishing, boating in this area!

Reviewed Jun. 18, 2019

Back to basics

Primitive campground that sits in the middle of the old ORV area. The old 4 wheeler trails now make good hiking trails and cool off at the gravel beach at the end of the road.

  • Review photo of Wilson Creek Recreation Area by Kenny P., June 18, 2019
  • Review photo of Wilson Creek Recreation Area by Kenny P., June 18, 2019
Reviewed Jul. 3, 2017

Quiet, small

There are about 6 campsites along a stream with two pit toilets. It's a short walk to the lake which is pretty and has a lot of fish who were jumping the evening I was there. There was a police officer driving out when I got there and I was awoken in the middle of the night by a police officer who was making sure everything was okay. I felt at ease because it was so heavily patrolled.

Site One in the back
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Wilson Creek Recreation Area by Leandra P., July 3, 2017
  • Review photo of Wilson Creek Recreation Area by Leandra P., July 3, 2017
Reviewed Mar. 17, 2017

Hidden Gem

Wilson Creek is a hidden gem. We've camped here multiple times. There are only about 6 or 7 campsites for primitive camping, so it's very quiet. You're also only a short walk from the beach which is nice. The area is also patrolled at random hours throughout the night to make you feel a little safer, which is nice. There is an outhouse to use the bathroom. Plenty of shade too. You can set up tents or hammocks here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Wilson Creek Campground?

Wilson Creek Recreation Area offers primitive camping with basic amenities. The campground features approximately 5-7 campsites along a creek, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Facilities include pit toilets (outhouse-style) that are cleaned daily. There are trash cans available, though visitors are encouraged to pack out their garbage. The campground does not provide water, electricity, or shower facilities, so campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies. The sites are situated in a wooded area with a small intermittent stream running alongside.

How do I access Wilson Creek Recreation Area in Kentucky?

Wilson Creek Recreation Area is located near Green River Lake in Kentucky. The campground is situated in a wooded valley area, accessible via a road that leads to a small gravel/dirt parking lot. It's somewhat secluded, making it a hidden gem for those seeking quieter camping experiences. For specific directions, contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Green River Lake or the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, as they manage the area. The recreation area's relatively remote location contributes to its peaceful atmosphere.

What activities can visitors enjoy at Wilson Creek?

Wilson Creek offers numerous outdoor activities for visitors. The campground is a short walk from Green River Lake, providing excellent fishing opportunities where you can often see fish jumping in the evenings. Swimming is popular at the gravel beach area at the end of the road. Hiking is available on trails that were formerly ORV paths, winding through the wooded surroundings. The peaceful natural setting is ideal for wildlife watching and relaxation. The nearby lake also supports boating activities, making Wilson Creek a great base for exploring the broader Green River Lake area.