Situated 20 minutes south of Cincinnati, Bromley's camping options extend beyond the Winton Woods and A.J. Jolly glamping accommodations mentioned in current listings. The area averages 42 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures typically between 75-85°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Campgrounds around Bromley, Kentucky offer diverse waterfront camping experiences with most sites providing electric hookups and access to hiking trails.
What to do
Kayaking at nearby lakes: Cowan Lake State Park Campground provides excellent kayaking opportunities on its 700-acre lake. "It was beautiful. Sadly, no pictures as I do not have a water proof camera. The next day we also went out for another paddle under the bright sun. The boat ramp and parking lot is easy to use and has a good layout," notes one camper about their full moon paddle experience.
Fishing for multiple species: A.J. Jolly Park & Campground offers productive fishing throughout its 200-acre lake. "Fishing isn't too bad," reports a visitor, while another notes the sites are "on lake front" providing easy access to shoreline fishing. Many lakeside sites allow you to fish directly from your camping area.
Biking on paved and unpaved trails: Winton Woods Campground features a 1.7-mile paved trail around the lake for casual riding. "A 1.7 mile paved walking trail is great for walking, running and biking. A short 18 hole Disc Golf course is close by. It is an easy course great for beginners," one visitor explains about the variety of trail options.
Swimming and water recreation: Stonelick State Park Campground provides designated swimming areas with beach access. A camper reports it's an "awesome place to swim during daytime hours, just remember to use caution and don't go out of designated area." The park maintains a marked swimming area with restroom facilities nearby.
What campers like
Easy access from major cities: Winton Woods Campground offers a wilderness feeling while being just minutes from Cincinnati. "Very nice campground inside the urban loop in Cincinnati. Close to everything, yet quiet and secluded camping experience," explains one reviewer about the convenient location that doesn't sacrifice natural surroundings.
Clean bathhouse facilities: Hueston Woods State Park Campground maintains well-kept shower facilities despite high visitor traffic. "Bathhouses were clean and had good water pressure," notes a visitor, which contrasts with some other state parks in the region that struggle with bathroom maintenance.
Large, level sites at certain campgrounds: Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA offers spacious sites uncommon for KOA properties. "For a KOA this place was very well appointed. Spacious tree-filled lots. Nice folks too," reports one visitor who was pleasantly surprised by the site size compared to typical KOA standards.
Proximity to attractions: Camp Cedar provides easy access to Kings Island Amusement Park. "Great location across from Kings Island. Many activities within this campus," notes a visitor about the convenience for families wanting to combine camping with amusement park visits.
What you should know
Site variations across campgrounds: Cowan Lake State Park Campground offers diverse site types but many lack shade. "Our campsite didn't have any trees but they have planted a lot of new trees. I assume this due to the previous trees having to be cut down due to Emerald Ash borer damage," reports a camper, highlighting ongoing reforestation efforts.
Accessibility considerations: Stonelick State Park Campground features accessible facilities for campers with mobility needs. "Bath house is clean and modern... The larger bathroom had an ADA shower in it as well," notes a visitor, indicating the park's commitment to inclusive camping experiences.
Seasonal water conditions: A.J. Jolly Park experiences fluctuating water levels that affect camping comfort. One camper warns, "The other end of the lake at the Flatwood RV section isn't really a lake, it's a back water shallow mud hole depending on the time of year. Mosquitoes the size of jet fighters."
Reservation challenges: Oak Creek Campground can be difficult to book during peak seasons. Sites get reserved quickly, especially for holiday weekends, and the campground doesn't allow same-day reservations. Plan 2-3 months ahead for summer weekends to secure a spot.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Follow The River RV Resort provides family-friendly facilities including dedicated play areas. "There is pool access, a tree for shade at every lot, a picnic table at every lot and water access as well... There is also a kids playground," notes a visitor about the amenities designed for families with children.
Family biking opportunities: Winton Woods Campground offers safe paths for children learning to ride. "Nice park in Cincinnati with lots to do for Everyone. Tent/RV sites were level and had lots of Shade and trees for Hammocks. 1.7 mile paved walking trail is great for walking, running and biking," explains a camper about the family-friendly trail system.
Nature education: Cowan Lake features interpretive programs for children. "The trails here are easy and short. I loved the informational boxes and tags that they had on the trees or plants. This is helpful if you have little ones with you," explains a visitor about the educational opportunities available.
Beach access: Hueston Woods State Park Campground includes swimming areas designed for families. "We love Hueston Woods! The beach is a short distance away and love that they also include a dog swimming area," notes a camper about the pet-friendly beach that accommodates the whole family.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: A.J. Jolly Park's RV sites require careful setup. "The sites are gravel and not level... If you want to use your RV awning means your wheels in whatever you're using are going to be nearly off the level area or in the grass," cautions an RVer about positioning challenges that might require additional leveling blocks.
Access road considerations: Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA has some navigation issues. "The entry road is one lane. If you meet another vehicle someone has to back up. That's just poor design," warns an RVer about arrival planning, suggesting mid-week or morning arrivals to avoid traffic congestion.
Hookup locations: Oak Creek Campground has inconsistent hookup placements. "Spaces are narrow—though we were able to navigate the area, I wouldn't necessarily call it 'Big Rig Friendly,'" notes an RVer, recommending extension cords and longer water hoses for certain sites.
Electric options: Stonelick Lake State Park Campground provides various electric hookup options. "There are a number of good sites, but some with a significant slope that leveling would be an issue," warns a visitor, suggesting that RVers should research specific site details before booking.
