Camping options around California, Kentucky include numerous state parks and private campgrounds within 20 miles. The region sits along the Ohio River valley with rolling hills at 500-800 feet elevation. Most campgrounds remain operational from April through October, with limited year-round options available for campers seeking winter accommodations.
What to do
Explore water recreation: East Fork State Park Campground features extensive lake activities. "This was our first time camping here and it was a large park. There was several miles of bike trails, bridle trails and hiking trails. There is also a beach and marina for campers away from the main beach and marina for those just visiting the park for the day," notes Andrea F.
Visit historic sites: Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground offers educational opportunities beyond basic camping. "There is a museum and playground located on the property. You will also find a lake and a field with bison. The pool is tiny. There is also miniture golf available," explains Suzy M. The prehistoric exhibits provide context about the region's natural history.
Play golf: Kincaid Lake State Park Campground includes both full-size and mini-golf facilities. "This spur of the moment trip lead us to a wonderful park :) Hiking and mini-golf were the highlights for me, while the 9-hole golf course was a highlight for other family members," shares Sara S. The park offers additional recreational amenities like tennis courts and paddle boat rentals.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: A.J. Jolly Park & Campground provides lakeside sites with varied terrain. "Close to Cincinnati but each site is wooded and on lake front, lots to do!" explains Anna N. The campground includes both tent and RV sites with lake views from multiple vantage points.
Clean facilities: Stonelick State Park Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and grounds. "One of the cleanest campgrounds we've been to. The site are a bit small and some close together but the park offers a lot. Golf, swimming pool, playgrounds, shelters, and a nice lake to fish and kayak on," reports Todd C. Bathroom cleanliness ranks consistently high in camper reviews.
Campground amenities: Winton Woods Campground offers exceptional infrastructure despite its urban proximity. "Winton Woods campground has spacious paved RV spaces with full hook-ups, fire ring, and picnic table. They also have cabin and tent camping. The location is located on the lake with access to put in a kayak or canoe," describes Anne H., highlighting the range of site options available.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds in the area close during winter months. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site operates from April through October, which aligns with regional norms. "We met up with friends from Cincinnati for a long weekend of camping fun. This park was a nice place to stay. The main attraction seemed to be the museum," notes Sara S.
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. "Breathtaking scenery. The boating area is nice and has your typical 'outdoor' facilities you would find at a rest area. The scenery of the water and trees are amazing. The campground is good for tent camping but iffy for others. I would definitely bring extra leveling blocks," advises Lisa S. at Kincaid Lake State Park Campground.
Campground rules vary: Policies differ substantially between locations. "The campground is very strict about the rules - you are NOT allowed to gather firewood (of any size - which seems odd to me) but then they are also very strict about what firewood you can bring in. I guess you should plan on buying it there - although they charge $6 a bundle," explains Jennie P. about Kincaid Lake State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Winton Woods Campground offers child-friendly facilities. "There is a playground for children, and a camp store that sells firewood and supplies. I love the tall pines on the property. They made me feel like I was out west," shares Anne H. The campground's layout allows for supervised play within view of most campsites.
Educational opportunities: Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground features exhibits suitable for school-age children. "The museum and gift shop have a lot of educational stuff which would be excellent for a home schooling trip. A good interactive grade school age children campground," recommends Shelly S.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer dedicated swimming areas. "We spent 3 nights here for our maiden voyage as we picked up a new travel trailer from their local dealer. They had everything we needed for a pleasant stay," reports Rita J. about Winton Woods Campground, which includes a swimming beach.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: East Fork State Park Campground offers varied RV accommodations. "All camper pads are paved and most appeared level or just very slightly sloped. A picnic table and fire ring complete the site. Some sites have more trees to provide privacy while others are closer together with little separation," explains Lee D.
Hookup configurations: Pay attention to utility placement at A.J. Jolly Park & Campground. "So most if the sites are large enough for 30 and larger RVs but we're designed by someone who was clueless. On the general setup of newer campers and motorhomes. Pad are about 12 x12 concrete so that's a plus but the location of the pads if you want to use your RV awning means your wheels in what ever your using are goi g to be nearly off the level area or in the grass," warns Jeffrey D.
Urban camping convenience: RV campers appreciate Winton Woods Campground's proximity to Cincinnati. "This is a great county park! It has a nice 'campground' feel set in a large pine trees and wide sites but has 50-amp full hook-up sites. The campground is set in Winton Woods County Park which is about 20 minutes from downtown Cincinnati," Kenneth D. explains, highlighting the balance between nature and urban accessibility.
