The area around Hawesville, Kentucky sits along the Ohio River at approximately 400 feet elevation with hardwood forests and limestone outcroppings typical of the region. Campgrounds near Hawesville typically receive 45-50 inches of annual rainfall, making spring camping lush but sometimes muddy. Summer temperatures regularly reach the high 80s with humidity levels above 70%.
What to do
Kayaking at Tipsaw Lake: Electric motors only are permitted on this small lake, making it perfect for paddlers seeking calm waters. Non-motorized boats have access to the entire lake from the designated boat ramp. "The lake was a bit small but there's hardly a lot of people around so I think it would be great for kayaking or even fishing," notes Rica Z. after visiting Saddle Lake Campground.
Swimming at Rough River Lake: The designated swimming area offers a sandy beach that's popular with families throughout summer months. "If you dig down just a couple of inches on the beach, you'll find clay. My kids loved this and made a couple of clay pots," reports Heather K. from her experience at Axtel Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes within a 30-minute drive of Hawesville offer varied fishing experiences. "Fishing was a hit!" writes Justin W. about his time at Saddle Lake, while another camper noted that Celina Lake has "freshwater jellyfish that you can catch" during mid-August.
Trail hiking: The region offers numerous hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. The 2.2-mile trail at Saddle Lake provides a complete lake loop suitable for most ability levels. "We hiked a few trails, went to the nature center and loved the fact that they have a small store right there in the park for those small items you leave sitting on the counter at home!" mentions Todd S. about Lincoln State Park.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campgrounds offer sites with good separation and natural barriers. "Sites are well spaced. Clean, professional state park," writes Tom B. about Lincoln State Park. At Tipsaw Lake's Jackpine Loop, "Sites are large and private, with trees and greenery between most all sites," according to Cathleen T.
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings provide ample opportunities to observe native wildlife. "Wildlife is everywhere, as it is not unusual to have a Momma deer and her little one walk through the woods by your campsite or down by the boat launch, often followed by a turkey or two," observes a camper at Tipsaw Lake Jackpine.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area generally maintain clean restrooms and shower facilities. "The bathrooms were very clean, even the vault toilets, and had the best TP in them," mentions Debra W. about Indian-Celina Recreation Area, while another camper notes that at Jackpine Loop, "Showers are individual showers with their own dressing area."
Fall camping: The Hawesville region is particularly popular for autumn camping when hardwood forests display colorful foliage. "We went to Lake Rudolph for their Halloweekends and it is a one of a kind experience. They have so many activities for the kids such as hayrides, a DJ, pumpkin carving, and so many other things throughout the day!" shares Ashley D.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during summer and fall weekends. "I suggest you make a reservation as this campground fills up quickly. Axtel is located on the shore of Rough River Lake and has over 150 camp sites," advises a camper.
Dog-friendly campground policies: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Hawesville require leashes no longer than 6 feet. "Lots to do here for the entire family," notes Marlin W. about Lake Rudolph Campground, which welcomes pets but has specific pet areas.
Seasonal availability: Operating seasons vary among campgrounds. "The park's camping season runs from early April through late October with electric sites priced affordably," while Rough River Lake campgrounds typically operate "April 13 to October 30."
Limited cell coverage: Many campgrounds in the region have spotty cell service. "We had enough Verizon coverage to get emails and make calls but not enough to have worked on for a longer stay," reports one camper about Saddle Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Multiple campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. "The playground at the lake is perfect for Littles," writes Angela M. about Tipsaw Lake. Lincoln State Park features "a large primitive campground. They have a modern bath house with showers."
Water activities: Lakes provide cooling relief during hot summer months. "The beach has a play area for children right on the beach which makes it ideal for parents," notes a camper about Tipsaw Lake.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature centers and historical sites. "Lincoln State Park has the Lincoln boyhood memorial that is a must see," recommends Keith M. from German Ridge Campground.
Special events: Some campgrounds host seasonal events for families. Halloween-themed weekends are particularly popular, with one camper noting, "It was so neat seeing the campsites and golf carts decorated and lit up at night. If you get the chance to go, do it!"
Tips from RVers
Site sizes: Check campground site dimensions before booking. "The sites seemed short, but people were able to park very large rigs in them. Check the site dimensions before booking or call the office to make sure you'll fit," advises Cynthia K. about Lincoln State Park.
Dump stations: Most campgrounds offer dump stations, though specific locations vary. "A double dump station" is available at Lincoln State Park, while Vastwood County Park has a "dump station on site."
Utility hookups: Electric and water availability differs across campgrounds. "We were at site I158... [it] has no electric or water," shares one camper about Axtel Campground, while at other sites, "There are 30 & 50 Amp sites with water at each site."
Parking space: Consider space limitations when selecting sites. "Our spot was great and didn't require much leveling. We did get a deluxe spot. However we only got the spot because the others were sold out. Many of the other spots were on hills and right on top of each other," reports a camper at Lake Rudolph.
