Green River Lake camping areas sit between 700 and 800 feet above sea level in south-central Kentucky. The lake spans approximately 8,200 acres with 33 miles of shoreline. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting campsite availability along the shore during late summer when water levels may drop 10-15 feet from spring heights.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Smith Ridge campground offers direct lake access for anglers. "I gave Smith Ridge 5 stars because it offers a lot of great fishing spots and beautiful views. There isn't but maybe one trail there, and it's unmarked," notes Jessica C. The campground includes boat ramp access for those wanting to fish deeper waters.
Trout fishing: Kendall Campground provides specialized fishing beyond the lake itself. "Fish the river for trout, walleye and stripers or go upon the lake for a joy ride," explains Kenny P. The nearby National Fish Hatchery connects to a man-made trout stream running to the Cumberland River.
Hiking trails: Access multiple trail networks from various campgrounds around the lake. The Wilson Creek Recreation Area features hiking paths converted from former recreation vehicle trails. "The old 4 wheeler trails now make good hiking trails and cool off at the gravel beach at the end of the road," reports Kenny P.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention the generous site dimensions. "I am currently here and I gotta say I am impressed. The bathrooms are clean, I am not close to my neighboring campers, the parking spots are huge, and it's a great area to walk around," shares Maze M. about Smith Ridge - Green River Lake.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds around Green River Lake provide wildlife observation opportunities. "Walking around you will find wildlife. Lots of deer and turtles and birds," explains Thomas R. about Holmes Bend. Several campgrounds report frequent deer sightings near campsites, particularly in early morning and evening hours.
Swimming access: Public beaches provide lake access for swimmers. "It's a short walk to the lake which is pretty and has a lot of fish who were jumping the evening I was there," reports Leandra P. about Wilson Creek. Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with gradual entry points suitable for children.
What you should know
Shade availability varies: Tree coverage differs significantly between campground sections. "The old part had plenty of shade the newer part not so much," notes Jeremy K. about Smith Ridge. Sites 1-30 at Smith Ridge are generally wooded, while sites 31-80 have less coverage.
Cell service limitations: Communication can be difficult in certain areas. "Practically no cell service with Verizon or AT&T," reports Todd C. about Smith Ridge. Signal strength varies by elevation, with higher points offering better connectivity.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Pikes Ridge - Green River Lake runs from May 10 to September 22, while Holmes Bend operates from April 18 to October 26. Off-season camping options are limited, with Green River Lake State Park offering the longest season from April through December.
Facility maintenance concerns: Some campgrounds report ongoing maintenance issues. "One bathroom hasn't had electric in two years and another women's bathroom only has hot water in one shower and the hand dryers don't work," reports Christina S. about Smith Ridge.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "Family friendly, pet friendly, peaceful with playground for the kids and lots of nature to explore," notes Brenda S. about CampFire Ridge RV Park. Holmes Bend also features playgrounds that are cleaned daily.
Kid-friendly sites: Choose sites based on family needs. "I give it 4 not 5 because no cell signal so it's rustic camping which is good for some but not so much when alone. Sites 1-30 are wooded and semi private. 31-80 are set more in a park complete with playground and street lights near the bath house," explains Candy H. about Smith Ridge.
Beach options: Access swimming areas suitable for children. "We stayed in the new section just pass the entrance on the right! It's a one way loop thru the woods that brings you back out on main campground road. Only down fall is if you want to swim you'll have to drive about a mile to the swimming area," notes Kenny P. about Smith Ridge.
Tips from RVers
Power limitations: Some campgrounds experience electrical issues. "They have a known power issue, 30amp service went out several times at the pole. Their solution was to use less appliances. There are other campgrounds on the lake that I would choose instead of this one for that reason," warns Lindsey M. about Smith Ridge.
Site selection advice: Consider specific terrain features when choosing sites. "Our campsite had two stumps there were hard to work around when backing up the camper in the dark," cautions Christina S. about Smith Ridge. Requesting sites away from the main road can reduce noise and improve the camping experience.
Water and electric access: Green River Lake State Park Campground offers full hookup options. "Easy check in and nice level sites close to the water. The newer section has very few trees for shade. The older section had plenty of shade and nice sites," reports Doug and Terri C. Level sites are available throughout the campground, with older sections providing better shade coverage.
