Franklin, Kentucky sits at an elevation of 709 feet in south-central Kentucky's rolling hills, experiencing humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-90°F with higher humidity, making early fall and late spring the most comfortable camping seasons. Winter camping is available at several campgrounds, though water services may be limited due to freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Barren River Lake State Resort Park Campground offers excellent fishing access with boat ramps near campsites. One camper noted it provides "excellent fishing and boating and viewing of wildlife" with convenient proximity to "the towns of glasgow, scottsville, and bowling green."
Cave exploration: The world-famous Mammoth Cave National Park is approximately 30 miles north of Franklin. A visitor recommends "the all day guided tour with crawling about in small spaces for the best experience" and notes to "make sure your boots have enough tread or you won't be allowed to do the tour!"
Water recreation: Kayaking and swimming options abound within short drives. At Cedar Creek Campground, campers enjoy "a beach for swimming, clean bathrooms, and a sandy court for volleyball" with sites that have "a lovely view of the lake if not directly along the shore."
What campers like
Live entertainment: Many campgrounds near Franklin feature regular live music performances. At Grand Ole RV Resort, campers enjoy "live free entertainment nightly and some of the most pleasant staff we have encountered." Another reviewer called their New Year's Eve entertainment "the most fun we've had out in a while. Nothing says Nashville like live country music!"
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to view local wildlife. A camper at Mammoth Cave Campground mentioned that "deer & turkey walk thru ur campsite!" adding that "the wildlife are very friendly!" This provides a chance to observe animals in their natural habitat.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain high cleanliness standards. A visitor to Dad's Bluegrass Campground remarked that they offer "a beautiful pool, playground and basketball court for kids" and that "the showers and toilet facilities are very modern and clean."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: While many campgrounds remain open year-round, services may change seasonally. A visitor to Bledsoe Creek State Park warned: "Beware of ticks. Our dogs picked up ticks every day, and we had a few as well. Watch out for lyme and other tick born illnesses."
Site selection tips: Choose campsites strategically based on your equipment and preferences. At Barren River Lake State Resort Park, one camper advised: "I recommend only doing pull through sites. They were spaced out enough and did include water and electric hookup."
Noise factors: Several campgrounds are located near highways or railroads. A Grand Ole RV Resort visitor noted: "The location is in between a railroad and a highway" but added that "noise didn't bother us at all from the trains, but we are from the city."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Dad's Bluegrass Campground in Franklin offers family-friendly facilities. A reviewer mentioned it has "a huge pavilion for events, nice pool, showers, and very clean restrooms" making it ideal for families with children.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas for safer water recreation. At Cedar Creek, a camper mentioned "right across the lawn was a beach for swimming" which provides a contained area for children to enjoy the water.
Budget considerations: Camping fees vary widely in the area. One camper comparing options noted, "I have a hard time paying $40 for a tent site when I can camp for free or under $20" at Bowling Green KOA, so researching prices beforehand helps manage family vacation costs.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placements when setting up. At Grand Ole RV Resort, a visitor noted their site "wasn't exactly level" and at another campground mentioned "the water was on the opposite side of our camper (more annoying than anything)."
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have tight turns or obstacles. At Dad's Bluegrass Campground, a camper advised: "Watch the approach since you could head into the truck stop - stay to the right and you will be ok. I used the truck stop to fill up on the way out and it was OK."
Campsite spacing: RV sites vary in spaciousness throughout the region. A visitor to Nashville North KOA mentioned: "The sites are very very close together" while another noted "it is a busy campground but everything quietened down after 10 pm."
