Glamping sites near Russellville, Kentucky offer convenient access to both Kentucky and Tennessee attractions with most located within 30-45 minutes of major highways. The region sits at approximately 600-700 feet above sea level with rolling hills surrounding the small communities. Camping options in this area range from basic tent sites to upscale accommodations, with most campgrounds remaining open year-round due to the moderate climate.
What to do
Explore water recreation: Barren River Lake provides swimming beaches and boating opportunities near Scottsville. "The sites are level clean and fairly easy to get into," notes a camper at Baileys Point, which offers access to the water directly from many sites.
Visit Mammoth Cave National Park: Located about 30 minutes from several campgrounds in the region. "Every ammenity needed. Pet friendly with dog park for off-leash use. If ever that way again, will definitely us. 30 minites from Mammoth Cave," writes a visitor to Bowling Green KOA.
Try miniature golf: Several campgrounds maintain on-site mini-golf courses for family entertainment. "We enjoyed staying here, it was very convenient. Clean bathrooms are always a plus too," reports a guest at Beech Bend Family Campground.
Hiking opportunities: Local state parks feature trail systems ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. At Nolin Lake State Park, one camper shares, "The trail system in the park was great and we put in over 14 miles of hiking there. The staff was very friendly and helpful!!"
What campers like
Quiet camping environments: Despite proximity to highways, several campgrounds maintain peaceful settings. At Spring Creek Campground, a visitor notes, "Just stayed a night passing thru but wonderful little peaceful spot. Only about 3 miles from the hwy so quick in and out. Clean bathrooms. Hear a little bit of highway noise but the beauty and peace far outweighed that."
Level sites: Campers consistently mention the importance of level sites in the region. "Sites are level clean and fairly easy to get into," reports a Baileys Point visitor, while others note that campgrounds with uneven terrain can present challenges for RVs.
Community atmosphere: Seasonal events and gatherings are popular. One camper at Dad's Bluegrass Campground mentions, "They have a huge pavilion for events, nice pool, showers, and very clean restrooms."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "There were a lot of mature trees that would make satellite iffy depending on the site," notes a Nashville KOA visitor, while others mention seeing deer and various birds during their stays.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have varied terrain with some sites more level than others. At Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, one camper advises, "When you reserve your site make sure you ask about the specific site's terrain. Site 48, where I was, was sloped with no grass and had just been repaired."
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds are located near major highways. "Hear a little bit of highway noise but the beauty and peace far outweighed that," explains a Spring Creek camper, while others note varying degrees of road noise depending on site location.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences all four seasons with summer temperatures frequently reaching 90°F and higher. "Watch for ticks in warmer months—spray up!" warns a Nolin Lake State Park visitor.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (April-October). "This campground books 6 months out. Very hard to get a spot, but so worth it!" shares a Nolin Lake State Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access planning: The public beaches at state parks can get crowded on weekends. "The beach is free to public so very crowded and some elements are not family friendly," notes a Pennyrile Forest visitor who recommends weekday visits for quieter swimming experiences.
Look for accessible playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature updated play areas. "There is a beautiful pool, playground and basketball court for kids! The place is also pet friendly," writes a visitor to Dad's Bluegrass Campground.
Consider shower facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The shower house is in the RV campground and too far away to be a convenient walk. You have to drive there which is a pain with kids," reports a Nolin Lake camper.
Pet restrictions: Some campgrounds limit dog breeds. As one Nashville North KOA visitor mentions, "Make sure to ask about what breeds of dogs they allow. Couldn't stay due to my German Shepherd mix."
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: At several campgrounds, the utility connections may be positioned awkwardly. "My site was slightly uphill where I had to park to reach the water hookup. The water hookup is very close to the ground and leaked for me," notes a Dad's Bluegrass camper.
Extended stay options: Some campgrounds offer monthly rates for longer visits. "They have long-term rates for $600/month," shares a Nashville North KOA visitor, making it economical for those exploring the region extensively.
Easy access routes: Several campgrounds provide pull-through sites that accommodate larger RVs. "Great pull through spots. Every ammenity needed," writes a visitor to Bowling Green KOA, while Dad's Bluegrass gets praise for being "an easy right off the interstate place. Plenty of TT friendly gas stations around it."
Breaker capacity: Electrical service can vary even at the same campground. "Had to hook our 38ft 5er up to a 30amp first night even barley using anything the breaker kept tripping. We moved to 50amp the next day and all is lovely," reports a camper at Eagle's Rest Army Travel Camp.
