Nolin River Lake in Kentucky covers 5,795 acres with 150 miles of shoreline surrounded by forested ridges. The area receives approximately 48 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush conditions that support diverse wildlife near camping areas. Many campgrounds near the lake maintain equestrian facilities for visitors bringing horses to access the extensive trail systems.
What to do
Trail riding access: Maple Springs Campground connects directly to multiple trail systems throughout Mammoth Cave National Park. "Nice large camping areas, secluded and quiet, easy access to the trails. Well maintained full hookup for RVs and plenty of room for your horse too," notes Shelly S.
Cave exploration: Many campers use Nolin River Lake campgrounds as a base for exploring Mammoth Cave. "THE CAVE IS VERY BIG AND COOL. Reserve the all day guided tour with crawling about in small spaces for the best experience. Make sure your boots have enough tread or you won't be allowed to do the tour!" advises Dan X.
Fishing opportunities: Several campsites provide access to prime fishing spots on Nolin Lake and nearby waterways. At Cecilia Campgrounds, "I've caught largemouth bass over 5 lb from the pond and all kinds of panfish," reports J T.
Water activities: The lake offers swimming, boating and kayaking options. "The beach was amazing and clean," mentions Erin R. about Barren River Lake Resort facilities, which provide similar amenities to those found at Nolin River Lake.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Many campsites around Nolin River Lake feature abundant local wildlife. At Mammoth Cave Campground, "Deer & turkey walk thru ur campsite! Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!" according to Gloria J.
Natural surroundings: The shaded, wooded environment creates comfortable camping conditions. "The tent campground has spacious, level sites. The sites are located in a grove of pine trees, which makes for well shaded sites with a pleasant surface of soft pine straw to pitch your tents," writes Christina M.
Evening atmosphere: Natural features create memorable nighttime experiences. "Fireflies are great at night. Frogs are singing in the evening. Tons of trees and shade," shares Veronica S. about the evening ambiance at Mammoth Cave Campground.
Campfire sociability: Many campers appreciate the friendly atmosphere at area campgrounds. "People here were kind and trustworthy. People were charging their power stations unattended in the bathrooms. We were given extra wood by our neighbors," adds Veronica S.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "This campground books 6 months out. Very hard to get a spot, but so worth it!" advises Laura O. about Nolin Lake State Park Campground.
Ferry access: Some campgrounds require crossing the Green River by ferry. "You have to take the Green River Ferry to the far side. Pro: this area is definitely less traveled than the main park," notes Shelly S.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects camping conditions significantly. "We went in April, one of the area's wetter months, and found the campsites to be well maintained, drained and free from debris," reports Erin H.
Bug protection: Ticks can be problematic in warmer months. "The only downside to the entire trip is that the park is infested with seed ticks and deer ticks. I was pulling ticks off of every inch of me even though I was coated in several layers of hardcore bug spray," warns Carrie J.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Dad's Bluegrass Campground provides amenities specifically for families. "There is a beautiful pool, playground and basketball court for kids! The place is also pet friendly," explains Tara.
Seasonal events: Some campgrounds host special activities for children. "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," shares Amber S. about Otter Creek Park Campground.
Noise considerations: Campgrounds vary significantly in noise levels. "This isn't the most quiet campground you're going to find. There is an RV area and a loop for tent camping, the sites are fairly close together," explains Ella L.
Child-friendly trails: The trail systems near equestrian camping facilities at Nolin River Lake offer varying difficulty levels. "The trails were great for both of us and we could ride straight from the campground," shares Bounding Around about the accessible trails at Maple Springs.
Tips from RVers
Site access: Green River Stables offers equestrian-focused RV camping with specific amenities. "Has horse camping with covered stalls. Great trails on Green River Lake State Park for hiking, biking & horses. Located close to boat ramps," reports Erin W.
Hookup configurations: Some campgrounds have limitations with utilities. "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 Jon P. about utility arrangements.
Approach routes: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. "Watch the approach since you could head into the truck stop - stay to the right and you will be ok," advises Charlie M.
