Camping options near Glencoe, Kentucky sit in the rolling hills of northern Kentucky, approximately 30 miles south of Cincinnati. The region features elevations ranging from 500-900 feet with a humid continental climate that brings four distinct seasons. Many campgrounds in the area offer lake access with sites positioned on hillsides that provide tiered viewing platforms of the water.
What to do
Fishing access: Three Springs Campground offers a small pond for catch-and-release fishing. "There is a pond to fish in, and a nice pool. Very friendly staff. Kids playground," writes Vicki N.
Trail exploration: Charlestown State Park Campground features multiple hiking trails with varied terrain. "We biked throughout the park and hiked 4 of the trails, 3 of which were pretty rugged and all had elevation changes for a good hiking challenge," notes Lisa D.
Kayaking options: General Butler State Resort Park provides lake access for small watercraft. "The Butler Lake Trail with dogs was a fun trail... There was a pool available for free to any of the campers," shares Austin-Tarra G., who also mentioned "a lot of room to walk just around the campgrounds."
Horseback accommodations: Equestrian campers can find dedicated facilities at some parks. "Stall accommodations are excellent, even include bedding. The camp Ranger/host, Larry?, was incredibly helpful and kind," reports Judy B. about her overnight horse camping experience.
What campers like
Riverfront views: Paul Ogle Riverfront Park offers camping with water vistas. "Very pretty view of the riverfront! The campground was a little hard to find because it's hidden behind an actual park," explains Abigaile J.
Convenient location: Oak Creek Campground provides easy access to major routes. "Good enough spot to stay for the night in a van/RV. Sites were a bit cramped, but level. Bathrooms and showers available," reports Meghan B.
Quiet atmosphere: Multiple campers note the peaceful settings at several parks. At Swiss Haven RV Resort, Stephen & Theresa B. found "a great little find right on the banks of the Ohio River. Family owned operation... and just the nicest people you could ever imagine."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. At Follow The River RV Resort, Jessica G. appreciated "very friendly staff. The bathrooms having regular working toilets and showers. The bathrooms are very nice."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds have limited operating seasons. At Frontier Heritage Campground, "The area is only open in June and in September because of hunting season and their are rifle competitions in September," according to Abigaile J.
Site placement challenges: At several campgrounds, RV pads may not be ideally positioned. At A.J. Jolly Park & Campground, Bobby C. notes: "The sites I'm at are on a hillside so think theatrical style site. None are level looking so you will need to know what your doing. I'm o level your rig."
Flood potential: Low-lying areas near rivers may experience flooding. At Paul Ogle Riverfront Park, campers should note that "it floods tremendously because it is so close to the water! Be aware of rain and water rising!"
Hookup limitations: Several campgrounds offer electric but lack sewer connections. At Oak Creek Campground, Nick & Allyssa S. warn: "Did NOT have sewer hookups as advertised, so plan to dump before you park if you've been traveling."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Winton Woods Campground offers multiple recreation options. "Nice park in Cincinnati with lots to do for Everyone. Tent/RV sites were level and had lots of Shade and trees for Hammocks. A short 18 hole Disc Golf course is close by," notes Dan G.
Swimming options: Several parks feature pools for summer recreation. At Follow The River RV Resort, Abigaile J. found "pool access, a tree for shade at every lot, a picnic table at every lot and water access as well."
Educational opportunities: Historic sites provide learning experiences. At Charlestown State Park, campers can explore "Rose Island trail lots of cool history to learn," according to Bryana D.
Trail difficulty ratings: Check trail ratings before hiking with children. Austin-Tarra G. attempted to hike the Woodland Trail at General Butler State Park but found "it had just rained for the few days before that and it was too sloppy for us and our dogs."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For glamping near Glencoe, Kentucky in larger rigs, research specific sites carefully. At Oak Creek Campground, "Spaces are narrow—though we were able to navigate the area, I wouldn't necessarily call it 'Big Rig Friendly,'" advises Nick & Allyssa S.
Mid-week visits: For quieter glamping experiences, schedule weekday stays. At Follow The River RV Resort, jeff S. found "nice pull through close to the pool and bathrooms. Quiet during the week."
Extension cords: Bring additional power cables as some sites have oddly placed hookups. At Three Springs Campground, Bobby C. appreciated that they had "extremely friendly staff who will go out of their way to help you set up. (Was offered hoses and power cords if needed)."
Weather monitoring: Given the region's variable conditions, check forecasts before planning glamping trips. At Charlestown State Park, Fred L. visited in fall and reported "the trees were at peak color! The minuses were that some of the sites were very narrow, and some had a huge drop off from the camping pad to the grass."
