Dad's Bluegrass Campground sits among the rolling hills of south-central Kentucky, just 40 minutes north of Nashville. The campground offers 50-amp full-service hookups across its pull-through sites with average temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Visitors seeking glamping near Franklin, Kentucky can access both natural attractions and urban amenities with Mammoth Cave National Park 36 miles north and Nashville about 45 minutes south.
What to do
Explore Mammoth Cave National Park: Take a 36-mile trip north to explore the world's longest known cave system. "We did not stay at the campground. We parked our 40ft skoolie in the parking lot of the visitors center and slept there for 2 nights. Thanks to the park ranger who didn't make us leave and told us to enjoy our visit!" shared a visitor at Mammoth Cave Campground.
Fish at Barren River Lake: Only 30 minutes from Franklin, the lake offers prime fishing spots. "The Narrows at Barren River Resort Park is a nice, well maintained campground. If you are a fisher person this is a campground for you. Within walking distance of the Marina, nice shaded sites and room to spread out. A cool feature in the sites is a fish cleaning table as well as fire ring and picnic table," notes a camper at The Narrows.
Visit nearby attractions: With Franklin's central location, both Bowling Green and Nashville attractions are accessible. "Definitely recommend staying here if you're in the area! It's also fairly close to Nashville and bowling green!" says a visitor to Dad's Bluegrass Campground.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Despite highway proximity, many campers note the peaceful setting. "A lot of people pull in for the night since it's right off the highway and behind a Pilot/Flying J, but it was still quiet. Got to chat at length with the owner and you can tell he cares about the property," according to a guest at Dad's Bluegrass Campground.
Clean facilities: The cleanliness of restrooms and shower facilities receives consistent praise. "The park is very well maintained, the owner was very accommodating and helpful, especially since we had to add an extra night last minute! There is a beautiful pool, playground and basketball court for kids!" shares a reviewer from Dad's Bluegrass.
Lake views: At Baileys Point campground, 35 minutes from Franklin, the lake access stands out: "We have camped here for many years and all the sites are great. Checkin is quick and staff is friendly, helpful. We love that our boat can be moored into a cove very near site. Always beautiful views of Barren River Lake."
What you should know
Highway noise varies: Proximity to Interstate 65 means some noise, but impact varies by site. "We didn't find the highway noise to be too big of a deal," notes one Dad's Bluegrass camper, while others at nearby Nashville North KOA had different experiences: "Listen to the warnings in the reviews of this campsite. If you are tenting don't expect to sleep well. I didn't listen to the cautions and regretted it all night."
Water hookup placement: Some sites have awkward utility setups. "My site was slightly uphill where I had to park to reach the water hookup. The water hookup is very close to the ground and leaked for me. Made it very hard to connect the hose and pressure regulator. Used all of my 25 foot hose to reach my connection," reported a camper at Dad's Bluegrass.
Winter camping options: Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round. "We spent a cold rainy weekend at Bailey's Point but we manage to get the perfect site A23 in my opinion! It was opening weekend and to spite the weather there were quite a few campers there."
Tips for camping with families
Themed weekends: Many nearby campgrounds offer special events. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, 45 minutes from Franklin: "The campground had activities for the kids all day Friday and Sunday. We did arts and crafts, bingo, trick or treating, watched the golf cart parade, played on several of the different playgrounds, and putt putt golf."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. One visitor noted, "There is a beautiful pool, playground and basketball court for kids! The place is also pet friendly. There was a cute area inside with a TV, dvds, and books to read or take one and leave one."
Wildlife viewing: Kids can spot local fauna at several nearby parks. At Mammoth Cave Campground, a camper shared: "Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!" while another mentioned, "Fireflies are great at night. Frogs are singing in the evening. Tons of trees and shade."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Most sites at Dad's Bluegrass are pull-through, making arrival and departure easier. "All lots are pull through. They have a huge pavilion for events, nice pool, showers, and very clean restrooms," notes one RVer.
Hookup quality: Check power stability at some campgrounds. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park: "Would have got 5 stars but the power would spike several times a day to 129-132 volts setting off alarm in coach. We moved spots and same issue but fewer times a day. Highly recommend Surge Protector at this park."
Site leveling: Bring leveling blocks for some area campgrounds. At The Narrows, "Many of the sites are not level so bring your blocks," while at Bowling Green KOA, a visitor shared: "The sites were level and clear of obstacles. They left plenty of space for vehicles and rigs."
