Best Campgrounds near Russellville, KY

Camping options near Russellville, Kentucky range from established RV parks to recreation areas along nearby lakes and rivers. Located in the western part of the state at approximately 590 feet elevation, the region features rolling hills and farmland with summer temperatures frequently reaching the 90s with high humidity. Spring and fall camping seasons offer more moderate temperatures, typically between 60-80°F during the day with cooler evenings that can drop into the 40s.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Most campgrounds near Russellville provide access to fishing in lakes and rivers. At Baileys Point, campers can easily access Barren River Lake, where "our boat can be moored into a cove very near site" according to one visitor who enjoyed "finding fossils on the rocky beach" while there.

Swimming and water activities: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas during summer months. At Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground, visitors have lake access though one camper notes that "the only bad things were that there was no swimming in the lake and there was no pool."

Hiking trails: Many campgrounds feature walking paths and nature trails for day hiking. Lake Malone State Park offers the Twisted Tree trail, while Bledsoe Creek provides several miles of hiking with abundant wildlife where "deer would just walk up near you and just say hello."

What campers like

Clean facilities: Reviews frequently mention well-maintained bathhouses and grounds. At RJourney Clarksville RV Resort, campers appreciate that "the shower and bathroom was clean" and "the grounds were clean and the sites were level."

Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer ample room between sites. One camper at Dad's Bluegrass Campground noted it was "a very well maintained" property where "the sites were large and level."

Quiet environment: Despite proximity to highways, many campgrounds maintain a peaceful atmosphere. At Spring Creek Campground, one visitor described it as a "wonderful little peaceful spot" adding that you can "hear a little bit of highway noise but the beauty and peace far outweighed that."

What you should know

Seasonal considerations: Many state park campgrounds close between November and March. Lake Malone State Park Campground operates from April through October, and Baileys Point is open "April 18 to October 25" according to their listing.

Road access: While most campgrounds have paved access roads, interior roads may vary. At Spring Creek Campground, campers note it's "only about 3 miles from the hwy so quick in and out" making it convenient for overnight stays.

Wildlife awareness: Ticks can be problematic in warmer months. One camper at Bledsoe Creek warned, "Our dogs picked up ticks every day, and we had a few as well. Watch out for lyme and other tick born illnesses."

Tips for camping with families

Playground availability: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Nashville KOA Resort, families enjoy "paved roads the kids loved scootering on" and numerous amenities for children.

Pet policies: Check pet restrictions before booking. At Spring Creek Campground, one visitor advised to "make sure to ask about what breeds of dogs they allow. Couldn't stay due to my German Shepherd mix."

Swimming options: Not all campgrounds allow swimming in their lakes. For guaranteed swimming access, choose locations with pools. Bowling Green KOA, about 25 miles east of Russellville, features a swimming pool and additional activities for children.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: Consider highway noise when choosing a site. At Clarksville RV Resort, an RVer recommended to "request a site as far as possible from the road" because "the beeping and metallic booming started at 6 AM sharp" from nearby construction.

Hookup location: Pay attention to utility placement when setting up. At Red River Valley, campers appreciate that "you can pick any spot throughout the property, close to the restroom and facilities, or far. It's super laid back."

Dump station timing: At popular campgrounds, plan for potential wait times. One camper at Baileys Point noted it "gets a little crowded at the dump station on the weekends at check out time."