Tent and RV camping options surround Green River Lake in central Kentucky, offering sites with varying terrain from wooded to open settings. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with summer temperatures typically reaching the 90s. Cell service can be inconsistent throughout the area, with specific coverage challenges at certain campgrounds depending on your carrier.
What to do
Water activities at Holmes Bend: Located on Green River Lake, this campground provides easy access for boating and swimming. "The beach is great and right next to the marina," notes Thomas R., who enjoyed the natural surroundings. "Easy to get to with loads of appeal... Walking around you will find wildlife. Lots of deer and turtles and birds."
Hiking at Wilson Creek Recreation Area: This primitive camping area offers access to former ORV trails now converted to hiking paths. "The old 4 wheeler trails now make good hiking trails and cool off at the gravel beach at the end of the road," says Kenny P., highlighting the dual benefits of exercise and swimming access.
Cave tours at Mammoth Cave: About an hour from Campbellsville, this national park offers underground adventures. "The cave is very big and cool. Reserve the all day guided tour with crawling about in small spaces for the best experience," recommends Dan X., who emphasizes preparing properly: "Make sure your boots have enough tread or you won't be allowed to do the tour!"
What campers like
Spacious sites at Smith Ridge - Green River Lake: The campground layout provides comfortable spacing between sites. "I am currently here and I gotta say I am impressed. The bathrooms are clean, I am not close to my neighboring campers, the parking spots are huge, and it's a great area to walk around," reports Maze M.
Natural ambiance: The wooded sections at Smith Ridge offer a more secluded camping experience. "We stayed in the new section just pass the entrance on the right! It's a one way loop thru the woods that brings you back out on main campground road. The campground sets on a point with woods all the way around," explains Kenny P., appreciating the natural setting.
Water access: Many campers value the proximity to Green River Lake. "I had Site 31 right beside the Woodland Trail entrance but you're pretty close to the lake (the boat ramp is about a 1/2 mile as the crow flies)," shares Estus H., noting the convenience of both nature trails and lake activities.
What you should know
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facilities at different campgrounds have inconsistent upkeep. At Green River Lake State Park Campground, "The newer bathhouse was nice. The old bathhouse needs some updating. They were both clean," according to Jeremy K., while at Smith Ridge, one reviewer noted that "one bathroom hasn't had electric in two years."
Power supply challenges: Some campgrounds experience electrical issues. "They have a known power issue, 30amp service went out several times at the pole. Their solution was to use less appliances," reports Lindsey M. about Smith Ridge, suggesting campers might want backup power options.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. "Practically no cell service with Verizon or AT&T," mentions Todd C. about his stay at Smith Ridge, while at Holmes Bend, a camper noted "cell service Verizon & AT&T Service 3 bars depending above or below hill in camping area."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Holmes Bend, "Bathroom, shower house and playground are available," notes Kenny P., making it suitable for families with young children.
Beach swimming options: Green River Lake offers designated swimming areas. Kenny P. notes about Smith Ridge: "Only down fall is if you want to swim you'll have to drive about a mile to the swimming area," suggesting families plan accordingly for water activities.
Pet-friendly considerations: For families camping with dogs near Campbellsville, Kentucky, CampFire Ridge RV Park provides a "Family oriented, pet friendly, peaceful" environment with "playground for the kids and lots of nature to explore," according to Brenda S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Green River Lake: RV campers should research specific site characteristics before booking. "The newer section has very few trees for shade. The older section had plenty of shade and nice sites," advises Doug and Terri C. about Green River Lake State Park Campground.
Dump station positioning: At My Old Kentucky Home State Park, be cautious about certain sites: "Site 20 is one to avoid. It's at the corner of the loop, across from a dumpster, right next to the bathroom AND the dump station is practically in the site. It even sits at a lower elevation than the dump station," warns Chase G.
Leveling requirements: Many sites in the region require substantial leveling equipment. "Make sure to have levelers to handle 7+ inches," advises Bethany W. about My Old Kentucky Home State Park, a consideration for RVers with limited leveling capabilities.
