Best Campgrounds near Frankfort, KY
Frankfort, Kentucky provides a range of camping experiences along the Kentucky River and nearby waterways. Elkhorn Campground and Kentucky River Campground offer established sites with various amenities, while Still Waters Campground provides access to both Elkhorn Creek and the Kentucky River. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering full hookup sites. The region includes a mix of privately owned campgrounds and state park facilities, with many located within a 30-minute drive of downtown Frankfort.
Camping in the Frankfort area operates primarily from April through October, with some facilities like Kentucky Horse Park Campground remaining open year-round. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays. "We stayed at Elkhorn for 6 nights; it is a great place to use as a home base for the sites in Frankfort, as well as multiple distilleries. It is just 5-miles or 8-9 minutes to Buffalo Trace," noted one visitor. Cell service can be limited at certain locations, with one review mentioning that "due to the location, only Verizon and Visible cell phone users have service" at Still Waters Campground. Water levels on the Kentucky River and Elkhorn Creek can affect camping conditions, particularly after heavy rainfall.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw for visitors to the Frankfort area. Several campgrounds provide direct access to the Kentucky River or Elkhorn Creek, popular for fishing, kayaking, and tubing. A review of Still Waters Campground described it as "extremely popular among locals who want to sit in an tube float and float down the creek to the Kentucky River, a trip that takes approximately 3 to 4 hours." Developed campgrounds typically feature amenities such as shower facilities, dump stations, and camp stores. Many sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and grassy areas. The proximity to bourbon distilleries, including Buffalo Trace in Frankfort and others within driving distance, makes these campgrounds convenient bases for exploring Kentucky's bourbon heritage while enjoying outdoor recreation.