Nolin Lake State Park Campground operates seasonally from April 1 to October 31 and serves as a convenient base for exploring Kentucky's varied outdoor attractions. The campground sits within a pine forest area offering tent sites with soft pine straw surfaces for pitching tents. Most tent campsites are positioned in a grove that provides natural shade during hot Kentucky summers when humidity levels frequently reach 100%.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Visit Mammoth Cave Campground for easy access to the world's longest known cave system. "Do the twilight tour! It is also a dry county, so the only alcohol are some $5 beers near the visitor center," notes a camper about the area's signature attraction.
Hiking trails: The surrounding parks offer multiple trail options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "We used the access points in the campground to hike some of the trails and walk to the visitors center," reports one visitor to Baileys Point.
Water recreation: The area's lakes provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. "We camped at Nolin lake was very beautiful and peaceful. The campground had two tent camping locations and a RV area. The scenery was amazing," states a camper who appreciated the natural setting.
Disc golf: Several campgrounds feature disc golf courses for recreational players. A reviewer noted: "There is a disc golf course in the area so if your in one of the sites near it you might want to keep your head down."
What campers like
Private shoreline access: Many campsites at Rough River Dam State Resort Park feature water views and direct lake access. "There are no fees to access the public areas of the dam to fish or lake! Our children love to camp and play around the lake!" mentions a satisfied camper.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region typically maintain their shower houses and restrooms well. A visitor to Cave Creek - Rough River Lake shared, "The bathrooms were clean, nice hot showers with good water pressure."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts various wildlife. "Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!" commented one visitor who enjoyed watching deer and turkey walk through their campsite.
Seasonal activities: Halloween events are popular in fall. "We go every fall with our entire family to enjoy the Halloween activities. The campers all go all out and let the kids trick or treat," notes a reviewer about local campground traditions.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites book months in advance. "This campground books 6 months out. Very hard to get a spot, but so worth it!" advises a visitor to Nolin Lake State Park Campground.
Weather considerations: Kentucky experiences high humidity in summer months. "Just know that in June, it's hot as heck and 100% humidity here," warns a camper describing typical summer conditions.
Insects: Ticks and other insects are common, particularly in warmer months. "Spray up!" cautions a reviewer about ticks at certain campgrounds.
Boat ramp etiquette: During peak season, boat ramps get congested. A camper notes: "The boatramp is very busy, lined up two deep. Make sure you back as close to the side your on because someone will be attempting to back in beside you."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Multiple recreation areas feature child-friendly playground equipment. "This camp site was very clean. There were very well maintened playgrounds for the children and lake activities were endless," reports a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with beach or pool facilities. "We have stayed several times and in different sites. Karst beach is so nice with the wibit (extra cost but worth it)," recommends a camper about water activities for children.
Educational programs: Some parks offer structured activities for young campers. "This is the kind of campground you can take your kids, never leave the campground, and have fun for days. We did arts and crafts, bingo, trick or treating, watched the golf cart parade," shares a reviewer about family-focused programming.
Animal interactions: Certain glamping sites in the Clarkson area feature mini-farms. "There is a small barn with animals penned up so you can just walk up to the fence and pet them. My wife and daughter loved that!" writes an enthusiastic visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose wisely for level parking and hookup access. A camper at Rock Cabin Camping notes, "There is electric and water if you need it. We chose to stay in the more open area that was primitive."
Power requirements: Be prepared for occasional electrical issues. "Would have got 5 stars but the power would spike several times a day to 129-132 volts setting off alarm in coach. Highly recommend Surge Protector at this park," advises an RV owner.
Navigation challenges: Some roads to glamping areas near Clarkson require careful driving. "The road is twisty and skinny. I'm not pulling a boat and would be concerned about passing in the curves," cautions a driver about access roads.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential wait times at dump stations. "Also gets a little crowded at the dump station on the weekends at check our time," warns an experienced RVer about weekend departures.
