Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Union, KY

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site offers camping near Union, Kentucky with easy access to northern Kentucky attractions. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 500 to 950 feet and a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Campgrounds in the area provide options for both tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities across Boone, Kenton, and Campbell counties.

What to do

Learn about prehistoric history: The museum at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground showcases the area's unique paleontological significance. "Great place to learn some history, hike a trail, and view the bison. There are places to have a picnic, and a small campground is available. A visitor center and gift shop is also onsite," notes Lisa S.

Play mini-golf: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly activities beyond hiking. "There is a pool, mini golf, and tennis plus some play areas for the kids. The showerhouse has laundry facilities available and there is a campstore," shares Shelly S. about recreation options.

Explore nearby attractions: The area's central location makes it ideal for day trips. "This park is super convenient if you're planning on going to the ark encounter and the creation museum because it's about 30-45 minutes in either direction," explains Tiffany D.

Observe wildlife: Animal viewing opportunities exist beyond the typical campground wildlife. "Great Attraction, you can walk the trails and even get the excitement of seeing REAL LIVE BISON. Pretty sweet experience!" says Zoe S.

What campers like

Educational opportunities: Hartig Park & Wildlife Reserve provides a natural setting for learning about local ecology. "Great free camping. This property was great. Gravel roads and grass trails to the campsites. Evenings were quiet. I would absolutely stay here again if passing through," reports Lucas G.

Secluded sites: Some campers appreciate privacy at smaller parks. "Each spot has a picnic table and fire ring. The spots were all pretty secluded. Great remote location!" explains Taylor P. who appreciated the isolation.

River views: Many campgrounds feature water access for cooling off during summer months. "We stayed at site 22 had a beautiful view of the ohio river. The kids enjoyed seeing the barges going up and down the river. It was very quiet and peaceful," shares Lindsey S. about her experience at Tucker's Landing.

Well-maintained facilities: Clean amenities make camping more comfortable. "This is a very nice campground with hood clean sites. Several pull throughs available. A lake to fish in, and a nice pool. Very friendly staff," notes Vicki N.

What you should know

Limited shade at some sites: Sun exposure can be an issue in summer. "Our site (49) was very un-level, and worst of all had no shade at all. Even with our awning out it was scorching until 730pm," cautions Beth H.

Campground noise varies: Location relative to highways affects peacefulness. "The freeway traffic is very loud 24 hours and the train comes at least 2 times per night (2am and 5am Sunday night anyway) blowing its horn," warns Cari W.

Site layout considerations: Some campgrounds weren't designed with modern RVs in mind. "Pad are about 12 x12 concrete so that's a plus but the location of the pads if you want to use your RV awning means your wheels in what ever your using are going to be nearly off the level area or in the grass," explains Jeffrey D. about A.J. Jolly Park & Campground.

Seasonal availability: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Most state parks in the region operate from April through October, while private campgrounds may offer extended seasons.

Tips for camping with families

Look for playgrounds: Children need recreation options when not hiking. "There is a museum and playground located on the property. You will also find a lake and a field with bison. The pool is tiny. There is also miniture golf available. It's a fun place to hike and plenty to do in the area," recommends Suzy M.

Consider educational value: East Fork State Park Campground offers learning opportunities through outdoor activities. "This park encourages so much outdoor activity, but it is not very pedestrian-friendly. I walked the road from one end to the other and there was no shoulder and, in many spots, no place to safely step off into the grass," notes Lee D.

Check for special events: Some campgrounds host seasonal celebrations. "The nature center offered movies in the evening for guest. The park was very clean and maintained. Trails were well marked and the camp hosts were very friendly," shares Andrea F.

Pack for all weather: Kentucky's climate can change quickly, with summer temperatures often reaching 90°F and humidity making it feel hotter, particularly in sites without shade.

Tips from RVers

Check hookup locations: At Oak Creek Campground, utilities can be positioned awkwardly. "Spaces are narrow— though we were able to navigate the area, I wouldn't necessarily call it 'Big Rig Friendly.' Road behind is loud but the campground itself was quiet," advises Nick & Allyssa S.

Verify dump station availability: Not all dog friendly campgrounds near Union offer full hookups. "Roughly 100 spaces to camp, some are pull through, most are back in and there are several primitive campsites. The camp sites we seen are all gravel but mostly level... The only real downfall is there is no sewer hookups, but they do pump out 2-3 times a week," explains Carl J.

Consider leveling needs: Many sites require adjustment. "Most camper pads are paved and most appeared level or just very slightly sloped. A picnic table and fire ring complete the site. Some sites have more trees to provide privacy while others are closer together with little separation," reports Lee D.

Look for pull-through options: Some campgrounds accommodate easier parking. "Nice campground with several pull through sites for big rigs. Pool and new dog park with a very nice play area for the kids," Doug and Terri C. share about their experience at Follow The River RV Resort.