Camping near Glencoe, Kentucky offers water-adjacent sites along creeks and the Ohio River within a 30-minute drive. The region features a mix of gravel and concrete pads at campgrounds, with many sites situated on hillsides requiring leveling skills. Seasonal operation varies, with most facilities fully operational between April and October when temperatures range from 60-85°F.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: At A.J. Jolly Park & Campground, campers can fish directly from lakefront sites. "The lake is in view to each site," notes Bobby C., adding that "fishing isn't too bad" at this facility located 25 miles from Glencoe.
Paddle sports: Elkhorn Creek provides kayaking access for campers. "There's a place nearby that rents kayaks and canoes," reports Amanda W. about facilities near Frankfort, approximately 45 minutes from Glencoe. Weekend visitors often find live entertainment and food trucks enhancing the creek-side experience.
Hiking trails: Three Springs Campground offers wooded trails within walking distance of campsites. "It has 3 beautiful hiking trails," notes a host review, describing the terrain as "wooded acres all around." The paths vary in difficulty, with some reviewers mentioning "uphill trails are spectacular, with plenty of pet friendly areas."
What Campers Like
Concrete pads: Tucker's Landing provides level concrete pads for easier setup. "Each plot has its own concrete slab for your RV, so you don't have to worry about parking in the mud," writes Daniel G. This feature is particularly valued during spring and fall rainy seasons.
River views: Sites overlooking the Ohio River offer constantly changing scenery. "Site 22 had a beautiful view of the Ohio river. The kids enjoyed seeing the barges going up and down the river," shares Lindsey S., highlighting a family-friendly aspect of waterfront camping approximately 40 minutes from Glencoe.
Clean facilities: Modern restrooms receive consistently positive feedback. At Three Springs Campground, "Bathrooms were well maintained and clean," according to Donald J., who noted the "beautiful sites but fairly close together" with "three small streams cutting through."
What You Should Know
Site spacing varies: Most RV campgrounds near Glencoe feature close-together sites. "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 you're doing to level your rig," explains Bobby C. about campgrounds in the area.
Noise considerations: Northern Kentucky RV Park in Crittenden experiences some transportation noise. "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," reports Cari W., something to consider when choosing sites.
Seasonal changes: Fall and spring camping may encounter mud and drainage issues. "If you want to walk through the drainage ditch add about 300 ft if you don't want to walk through the muck," warns Jeffrey D., describing conditions after rainfall at some facilities.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds: Whispering Hills RV Park offers multiple play areas for children. "They have a fishing pond, swimming pool with small water slide, jumping pillow, events at picnic shelter," notes Mathew H., making it suitable for families needing activities beyond hiking.
Wildlife viewing: Waterfront sites provide nature observation opportunities. "The kids could scooter around" and enjoy watching wildlife, shares Josh S. about Elkhorn Creek RV Park, where family-friendly sites near water features allow children to explore safely.
Off-site attractions: Position camping trips around nearby destinations. "Really nice for off-site attractions (Creation Museum, Ark Encounter)," explains Michael, with many campgrounds serving as convenient bases for day trips to regional attractions within 30 minutes.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords needed: Follow The River RV Resort in Florence provides full hookups but sometimes requires additional equipment. "The power for site 7 is on the wrong side so you're going to need an extension possibly," advises one camper, a common issue at several RV campgrounds near Glencoe.
Week vs. weekend stays: Midweek camping offers quieter experiences. "Quiet during the week," reports Jeff S., noting significant differences in atmosphere and noise levels between weekday and weekend stays when more short-term campers arrive.
Approach routes matter: Several RV parks have specific recommended entrance routes. "Make sure you take the exit they tell you & do NOT follow gps or you'll go down a long country road," warns Amanda W. about access to campgrounds in the region, particularly important for larger rigs with limited turning radius.
