The Clermont area offers multiple camping options within Kentucky's rolling hills, where elevations average 700-900 feet. Many campgrounds provide access to Kentucky's extensive horse trail systems with varying terrain difficulty. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Green River Lake State Park Campground provides excellent fishing access. "Easy check in and nice level sites close to the water. The newer section has very few trees for shade. The older section had plenty of shade and nice sites," notes one camper. The park's location on Green River Lake makes it ideal for anglers.
Historical tours: My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for history enthusiasts. "Plenty to see, including My Old Kentucky Home, the tour was amazing. Scout & Scholar Brewery was great. We will be back to spend time strolling the streets of Bardstown and taking a Distillery Tour," shares a visitor who enjoyed the nearby attractions.
Horse trails: Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground offers trail access for equestrians. A visitor notes, "Overall a good place, the group site are fairly large and have running water and compost latrines. Parking is not on site but only a short walk. Lots of trail access." The forest provides extensive trail systems suitable for riders of all skill levels.
What campers like
Privacy and natural settings: Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground earns praise for its spacious, wooded sites. "We camped here for three days in early August and used it as a 'home base' while we explored Louisville (Louisville Slugger Factory, Churchill Downs, etc.), bourbon country, etc.," reports one camper who appreciated the park's central location for regional explorations.
Clean facilities: Deam Lake State Recreation Area maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. "Cardinal Cabin Getaway. We stayed last night in the Cardinal Cabin. Tons of privacy and the best bathrooms I have ever seen. Not a single bug and they even had antibacterial hand soap at every sink," shares a satisfied visitor.
Budget-friendly options: Cecilia Campgrounds offers affordable camping with fishing opportunities. "Beautiful country farm setting old dairy farm located near Cecilia. There are several mowed areas one is near a fishing pond. Firewood purchasable from the host! I've caught largemouth bass over 5 lb from the pond and all kinds of panfish," reports a frequent visitor.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground, campers should research sites carefully. "Very small campground and narrow roads. Many sites were not level and some sites were very short so make sure you review the site description. Also some had sewer hook ups and others did not," advises one camper who discovered site variability.
Weather preparedness: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly in the region. Pack rain gear and waterproof storage for electronics and other items that must stay dry.
Seasonal availability: Most horse campgrounds near Clermont, Kentucky operate from April through October, with limited winter services. Call ahead during off-seasons to confirm facility status.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground offers extensive family programs. "One of our favorite campgrounds. The kids love the pool and trails. The campground sites are spacious and lots of shade in the summer. Beautiful in the fall!" writes a satisfied family camper.
Playground proximity: Select sites near recreational facilities for convenience with children. "We were near the restroom facilities which were very clean. The camping area was recently mowed. Plenty of parking for guests and tents. We were on the group campsite #7. Playground was close and perfect for everyone to go run and play," recommends a family who stayed at Taylorsville Lake State Park.
Pack extra layers: Kentucky nights can cool significantly even during summer months. Bring lightweight jackets for evenings around the campfire.
