Tent camping near Danville, Kentucky offers several options within a short drive of the city. The region features varied terrain including the Knobs, a collection of isolated hills and ridges between the Bluegrass region and the Cumberland Plateau. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations, with winter months offering limited amenities even at year-round facilities. Temperatures typically range from the 20s in winter to 80s during summer months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Pulaski County Park features extensive trail networks for various skill levels. According to one camper, "The trails are varied and pretty cool. They twist and turn and cross creeks and hill tops... They are all mountain bike oriented and a few are challenging."
Water activities: Lake access provides opportunities for boating and swimming at several campgrounds. One visitor to Pulaski County Park mentioned, "Great beach access. Quite and very clean," while another noted the convenience of boat launches, stating "You can bring your boats along and put them in right there they have 2 different ramps on either side of the camp ground."
Disc golf: Pulaski County Park offers an extensive disc golf course. "The disc golf will take you on quite a hike and to another parking lot and trailhead totally outside the park," notes one reviewer who explored the course.
Animal encounters: Farm settings provide unique camping experiences. At Wildcat Creek Farm, visitors appreciate interactions with resident animals. "Such a quiet place. The resident goats, mules, donkeys and horses are very friendly - just like the hosts!" reported one camper.
What campers like
Riverside locations: Several campsites offer direct water access. One visitor described Hidden Ridge Camping as "53 acres of wooded land" with "spacious and secluded" sites, noting they are "the perfect spot for your next family adventure."
Night sky viewing: Rural locations away from city lights provide excellent stargazing. A camper at Wildcat Creek Farm described their experience: "On a clear night it was super relaxing listening to nature and looking up in the night sky and seeing orions belt and the moon directly above the river."
Diverse accommodation options: Beyond traditional tent sites, some locations offer alternative lodging. At HomeGrown HideAways, visitors can choose from various options. One family shared, "We stayed at the Yome, and it was perfect for our family of four. Instead of sleeping in it, which would have been perfectly comfortable, we actually used it as more of an extra shelter and we pitched out tents in the field in front of the Yome."
Community facilities: Some campgrounds provide shared spaces for group activities. A camper at HomeGrown HideAways highlighted the "unbelievable community shelter and community kitchen" as standout features.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Quality and maintenance of restrooms vary significantly between locations. One visitor to Pulaski County Park warned, "Bathhouse; showers are so outdated and barely cleaned and just gross, water source is old and campground manager didn't follow up with me."
Seasonal differences: While some campgrounds operate year-round, services may be reduced during off-seasons. Pulaski County Park operates from April through October according to its official season.
Site privacy: Density of campsites affects the camping experience. At Pulaski County Park, one camper noted that "If they are really busy it can be a little crowded especially down by the water but over all a really good camping spot."
Water levels: Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting waterfront sites. A recent visitor observed, "Not crowded right now and the water is WAY down," suggesting water access may vary throughout the year.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pulaski County Park provides multiple recreation options for children. "There are several play ground areas close by for the kids to play," according to a long-time visitor.
Activity variety: Parks with multiple recreation options keep children engaged. One family reported about Pulaski County Park: "There's a very large walking trail, and archery area. You can put a boat right in at their little dock as well. The lake view is gorgeous. There's many places for kids to play, a basketball court, volleyball court, disk golf, and a small beach area."
Animal interactions: Farm-based camping provides educational opportunities. At Bourbon Trail Campground, children can observe farm operations while maintaining a traditional camping experience.
Site selection: Choosing locations away from high-traffic areas ensures a better family experience. One visitor warned that at some campgrounds, "Despite the no alcohol rule, there's still a lot of partying at night. No one really enforces that. It can get loud."
Tips from RVers
Campsite availability: RV sites at popular locations fill quickly during peak season. A long-time visitor to Pulaski County Park observed, "More RV sites have been added. More are needed. Great place to go camping and priced well."
Bathroom accessibility: Location of facilities relative to campsites affects convenience. One RVer suggested, "The only thing I would add is another bath house at the lower end of the camp areas."
Hook-up options: Water and electric connections vary between campgrounds. HomeGrown HideAways provides electric hookups and water hookups for those requiring such amenities, offering a more comfortable camping experience while maintaining a natural setting.
