RV camping options near California, Kentucky span across the Ohio River into both Kentucky and Indiana. Most campgrounds in the area operate with seasonal availability, particularly from spring through fall, though a few remain open year-round. The terrain typically features wooded sites with some riverside locations, and elevations range from approximately 500-800 feet above sea level.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At A.J. Jolly Park & Campground, campers can fish directly from lakefront sites. "The main lake is nice you can rent kayaks canoes. Or use your own boat. The boat ramp is nice," notes one visitor, though they caution the Flatwood section can be shallow depending on season.
Golf access: A.J. Jolly Park includes a golf course adjacent to the campground. "The park has a golf course," confirms a reviewer, making it convenient for campers who want to combine outdoor recreation with their camping trip.
Ohio River views: Tucker's Landing offers sites with direct river views. "Site 22 had a beautiful view of the ohio river. The kids enjoyed seeing the barges going up and down the river," shares Lindsey S., highlighting the unique riverside experience.
Hiking trails: Three Springs Campground features multiple woodland trails. "It has 3 beautiful hiking trails," notes a reviewer, while another visitor describes "Uphill trails are spectacular, with plenty of pet friendly areas," providing terrain variety for different hiking abilities.
What campers like
Concrete pads: At Tucker's Landing, the level concrete sites receive positive reviews. "Each plot also has it's own concrete slab for your RV, so you don't have to worry about parking in the mud," explains Daniel G., noting this feature adds stability and cleanliness to the camping experience.
Family-friendly amenities: Follow The River RV Resort includes recreational facilities for families. "There is pool access, a tree for shade at every lot, a picnic table at every lot and water access as well," shares Abigaile J., while another camper mentions "a pool, volleyball courts and a dog park."
Well-maintained facilities: Follow The River RV Resort receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "Very nice campground with hood clean sites. Several pull throughs available," notes Vicki N., while another reviewer states it's "very friendly staff and well kept and clean!! They are pet friendly and allow portable fences."
Proximity to attractions: Northern Kentucky RV Park offers convenient highway access. "We stayed one night on our way to pigeon forge, tn. It was neat and orderly but right on I-75," mentions Joe F., highlighting its strategic location for travelers.
What you should know
Train noise: Northern Kentucky RV Park sits near train tracks which affects some campers. "The only bad a train horn and noise," states Rodney L., while another visitor reports "the train comes at least 2 times per night (2am and 5am Sunday night anyway) blowing its horn."
Site configurations: A.J. Jolly's RV sites have unusual layouts that can challenge proper setup. "Campgrounds were designed for pop up campers limited sites for RVs an Travel Trailers," explains one reviewer, while another notes "The sites I'm at are on a hillside so think theatrical style site. None are level looking so you will need to know what your doing."
Seasonal pool closures: Several campgrounds have pools that close during part of the year. At Three Springs, one visitor mentioned "The website promoted a nice pool but it was empty," indicating seasonal maintenance or closure periods not always communicated clearly.
Limited bathroom facilities: Capacity varies significantly between parks. A.J. Jolly has "a new very clean" bathhouse but Three Springs has "Only one bathroom for the whole site," according to reviews, making it important to check bathroom availability when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Whispering Hills RV Park offers multiple recreation options for children. "Swimming pool with small water slide, fishing pond, jumping pillow, events at picnic shelter," notes Mathew H., providing diverse activities for different age groups.
Water activities: Tucker's Landing provides river views that entertain children. "The kids enjoyed seeing the barges going up and down the river. It was very quiet and peaceful," shares Lindsey S., though they note "There wasn't any playgrounds for the kids but they still had fun."
Wildlife viewing: Three Springs Campground offers nature-based entertainment. "Not much for a family to do," warns one camper, but another mentions kids "caught crawfish in" the creek, showing natural features can provide alternative entertainment.
Safety considerations: Watch for cats and wildlife at Northern Kentucky RV Park. One visitor reported an incident with a cat at the playground requiring an ER visit, highlighting the importance of supervising children around unfamiliar animals.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure management: Bring regulators to Whispering Hills RV Park. "Water pressure is pretty high make sure you use a regulator," advises Mathew H., helping prevent damage to RV plumbing systems.
Sewer hookup challenges: At Tucker's Landing, pay attention to the sewer connection height. "Clean with great views," reports Marie B., but "they charge extra for electrical usage," indicating variable pricing beyond the base site fee.
Extension cord needs: Three Springs Campground staff helps with hookup challenges. "Extremely friendly staff who will go out of their way to help you set up. (Was offered hoses and power cords if needed)," shares Bobby C., noting the helpfulness for RVers with connection issues.
Leveling requirements: At A.J. Jolly, be prepared for uneven terrain. "The sites are gravel and not level," reports one camper, while another mentions "you will need to know what your doing. I'm o level your rig," emphasizing the importance of bringing adequate leveling equipment.
