Best Campgrounds near California, KY

Kentucky's Campbell County offers several campground options within 20 miles of California, Kentucky, with a range of facilities that accommodate both tent and RV campers. A.J. Jolly Park & Campground, located in nearby Alexandria, provides waterfront sites for tents, RVs, and even yurts. Kincaid Lake State Park Campground in Falmouth features year-round accessibility with full hookup sites. The camping landscape extends across the Ohio River into Ohio, where East Fork State Park Campground and other facilities provide additional overnight options with varying amenities and pricing structures.

Most campgrounds in the region require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. Seasonal availability varies significantly, with Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground operating from April through October, which is typical for many facilities in the area. "The park is clean and well policed," noted one visitor about A.J. Jolly Park, though other reviews point to issues with site design at some locations. RV campers should be aware that several campgrounds have limitations regarding site size and hookup configurations. While most areas feature accessible roads, some developed sites have uneven or poorly designed layouts that may challenge larger vehicles or require additional equipment.

Waterfront camping represents a significant draw throughout the region, with several campgrounds situated along lakes or rivers. East Fork State Park receives consistent positive feedback for its spacious sites and proximity to the lake, with one camper noting it's "beautiful, spacious, clean, and close to the lake." Campgrounds like A.J. Jolly offer mixed experiences, with some visitors appreciating the lakefront views while others express concerns about site layout and value. Many campgrounds in the area feature electric hookups, drinking water, and picnic tables, though amenities like showers and sewer connections vary considerably between locations. The region generally provides good access to outdoor recreation beyond camping, including fishing, boating, and hiking, with several parks maintaining trail systems for day use activities.

Best Camping Sites Near California, Kentucky (76)

    1. East Fork State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Concord, OH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (513) 734-2730

    $29 - $30 / night

    "Our favorite campsite for the outskirts of Cincinnati. Lots of great spots available! You can get to the lake in about a 15 minute drive."

    "However I decided to focus on the positive. The trees are big and mature. The restrooms extremely clean, the shower a pressure washer. All good things in my book."

    2. Kincaid Lake State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Falmouth, KY
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 654-3531

    $22 - $35 / night

    "We were THRILLED to leave our cicada-infested northern Kentucky home and find that this park was blissfully free of Brood X cicadas. It was so peaceful, and we were able to fully enjoy the outdoors."

    "Primitive tent camping is back in its own little part of the park near the lake (there are a few lakeside sites if you have a small kayak or raft to use while there) and while we liked the privacy the"

    3. A.J. Jolly Park & Campground

    11 Reviews
    Alexandria, KY
    7 miles
    Website

    "Amazing place for the price and proximity to the city!! Just wish there was more hiking trails"

    "Close to Cincinnati but each site is wooded and on lake front , lots to do!"

    4. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground

    45 Reviews
    Patriot, KY
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 384-3522

    $40 / night

    "There’s also some hiking and biking trails accessible from the main turnoff from the highway, so there’s plenty to do in the area if you’re stopping on through or staying a few days."

    "we really enjoyed Big Bone. we went to their museum center on Saturday afternoon and walked the Bison trail to see the baby bison they had at the time. it was nice to have something different to do."

    5. Stonelick State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Goshen, OH
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (513) 625-6593

    "Our spot was right next to a small Pollinator trail that lead to the water. My little ones had a blast riding their scooters around the round about. The restrooms are a quick walk and very clean."

    "Had a wonderful time at this campground situated along a man made lake. Would have enjoyed a renting a canoe but rentals do not start until May."

    6. Tucker's Landing

    8 Reviews
    Fort Thomas, OH
    15 miles
    Website

    $25 - $54 / night

    "Not much in the surrounding area."

    "This place sits beautifully near the river and other than some bugs is family fun for everyone."

    7. The Landing at Bear Creek RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Felicity, OH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (513) 787-3240

    $50 / night

    8. Cabin Run Creek Campground, LLC

    3 Reviews
    Felicity, KY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 250-4744

    $22 - $44 / night

    "There was a little noise from highway near by when semi would go by but didn't disturb our stay at all."

    "They have a very clean shower house, campsites are nestled around woodland. Peaceful, close to most activities, stores etc."

    9. Winton Woods Campground

    23 Reviews
    Fairfield, OH
    27 miles
    Website

    "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. A short 18 hole Disc Golf course is close by."

    "The location is located on the lake with access to put in a kayak or canoe. The bathrooms are clean, with private combined shower/dressing stalls."

    10. Oak Creek Campground

    8 Reviews
    Union, KY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 485-9131

    "We prefer site 18 which offers nice privacy and os next to a stream."

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Recent Reviews near California, KY

536 Reviews of 76 California Campgrounds


  • Kara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Stonelick State Park Campground

    Big sites but can be loud and crowded

    Nice big sites, fairly level. We camped at site 35 and it was very slopey, our levelers only helped a little. First night the shower house STUNK but then the next day it smelled fine while our closest bathrooms were out of order. The trail to the lake was right next to the sit and that was lovely.

  • Evan C.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Rocky Fork State Park Campground

    Fine tenting, poorly kept

    8/13/2025

    Got here after dark, but navigated to a pretty secluded loop that's just for tenting (site 61 - see map). Stakes went in fine. Seemed to be a lot of different types of spiders, which was cool to see and even cooler that they didn't bug me. Less cool - the site wasn't very clean - bits of trash that a park attendant/ranger definitely should've been picking up. Moreover, there were stray cats living in that section (I saw three), which were very cute but I'm sure they're not living their best life and the wildlife probably don't appreciate them being around either. I called later to let the park know (nobody was around during my stay) and they said they'd get maintenance on it. If you stay here and see them, I'd urge you to let the park know again, or maybe call animal control.

  • Evan C.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Jim Terrell Park

    Looks Good!

    8/13/2025

    NOTE: I did NOT stay here. I was going to, but decided to drive a little farther than I had initially planned. I did want to check it out though because there aren't many reviews. 

    This looks like a solid option to tent for a night though. The town looks very nice and quiet, and the park seems well-kempt. If the sites are on the river, just know there's a restaurant on the opposite bank that might be a source of noise/light at night, and the park itself is kind of close to the road. I'm not exactly sure where one would tent, but there did seem to be some flat space behind a rafting/kayaking shack to the left as you pull in.

  • Rhonda B.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    The Landing at Bear Creek RV Park

    Best full time campground on the Ohio River!

    We are full-time RVers and this is by far the best park we've stayed at! It's peaceful and beautiful, everyone (especially Management) is so friendly and fun! The laundry facility is one of the greatest amenities as we've stayed other places without one, so we truly appreciate it! The splash pad is fantastic for children and adults alike! There's a dog park, and a kids kangaroo jump pad as well. The view of the river is beautiful! On weekends there's entertainment and/or cornhole tournaments to bring everyone together. The park is maintained perfectly and I've enjoyed calling it home! By far the best park in Southern Clermont County! Must see!

  • Kim H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Cowan Lake State Park Campground

    Sizeable Site, Good for Families

    We stayed in Site 78. The lot was VERY large and well maintained. The asphalt pad was decently level; a picnic table and fire ring were included.

    There was significant variety in the types of sites: some were quite wooded while others were full sun. Some sites were much larger than others.

    The restrooms were decent. They weren't new; however, they were very clean. I didn't check out any bath houses.

    The campground was filled with parents and kids riding bikes, playing, and having fun. Nobody was out of control or obnoxious. Plenty of dogs were present.

    We'll return next summer.

  • Robert H.
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Northern Kentucky RV Park

    Nice place to stay on the way price is priced accordingly on the high side

    Very nice attendant helpful even tried to help me find a lower priced campground but the others were full

  • K
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Cedarbrook Campground

    Wonderful stay w one hiccup

    This is a very well managed and maintain campground except the laundry facility. Washers are old and bed bugs were found. If you stick to your own camper you will be safe. Any campground that has cabins will have bedbugs. That’s a fact!

  • Beth B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Indian Springs Campground

    Nice campground, well cared for

    The spaces are gravel and level. The campground is mostly RV with a few private apartments/houseboat.

    Quiet, most all of the waterfront sites were taken. We took a chance on last minute reservations and there were plenty of pull through spots. Easy to setup.

    Checkin/out no problem. They have a code for gate entry.

    Bathhouse bathrooms are date but clean. A bit on small side, not very comfortable.

    There is not much common area for grass/waterside…kinda feel like your in someone’s spot/yard area.

    There is a playground for young kids.

    About 30 minutes from downtown Cincinnati…easy to get to a game.

  • John S.
    Jul. 12, 2025

    The Landing at Bear Creek RV Park

    Worst RV park.

    Worst RV park I stayed at. By the way, it’s managed. People are living in sheds. When you there they don’t keep up on your lawn as cutting the grass and getting the weeds. Just not a place I will take my family again.


Guide to California

Camping near California, Kentucky, offers a mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy casting a line. One visitor at Stonelick State Park Campground mentioned, "We could fish and still keep up with the fire," highlighting the convenience of fishing right from their campsite.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. A reviewer at Big Bone Lick State Park Campground said, "A well-groomed campground surrounded by hiking trails & other outdoor activities."
  • Kayaking: If you’re into water sports, Kincaid Lake State Park Campground offers kayak rentals. One camper noted, "It looks like it would be a good place to kayak."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate having room to breathe. A visitor at East Fork State Park Campground said, "Neighbors weren’t sitting on top of one another," which made for a more enjoyable experience.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained grounds are a big plus. A reviewer at Stonelick State Park Campground mentioned, "Facilities are well maintained," which adds to the comfort of camping.
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the welcoming vibe. One camper at Winton Woods Campground said, "Everyone was very friendly there as well!"

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. One camper at Kincaid Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Nice playground for the kids."
  • Space for Activities: Choose sites that allow for outdoor games. A visitor at Olive Branch Campground appreciated the "reasonable space between" sites for family activities.
  • Safety: Ensure the campground is safe for kids. A reviewer at Winton Woods Campground felt secure, stating, "I felt safe and it was gated."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Lebanon-Cincinnati NE KOA noted, "Level sites, decent sized sites for a KOA."
  • Dump Station Location: Know where the dump station is located. A visitor at Kincaid Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The dump station has 2 stations."
  • Avoid Crowds: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the week. A camper at Three Springs Campground found it "quiet and clean" during their stay.

Camping near California, Kentucky, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near California, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near California, KY is East Fork State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 65 reviews.