Campgrounds near Hodgenville, Kentucky provide access to the scenic Nolin River Lake and Green River Lake, with water levels that vary seasonally. Water temperatures at Nolin Lake typically reach the mid-70s during summer months, making swimming comfortable from late May through early September. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 600-800 feet above sea level.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Nolin River Lake offers excellent bank fishing and water activities. At Dog Creek Campground, campers can experience "plenty of swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking" with sites that offer "nice lake views" and good areas to "pull your boat up to."
Hiking trails: Explore the wooded paths around campgrounds. At Smith Ridge Green River Lake, you can access "hiking paths and a playground for kids" with some trails offering views of Green River Lake. One reviewer noted, "There is a two mile hike that is in the campground called Shady Creek Trail. It looked like it had not been hiked in a while but it went through woods, small stream and had a cool rock formation."
Birdwatching: Many campgrounds offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper at Nolin River Lake described their experience as a "peaceful waterfront birder's paradise," noting they could see "a trip of Redheaded Woodpeckers playing as well as a mama Northern Flicker feeding her babies. We even saw a giant Pileated Woodpecker!"
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain their amenities well. A visitor to Wax Campground noted, "Shower houses were newer and spotless with good water pressure and even hot water." Another camper shared, "First time at Wax and we will be back! Some of the nicest shower houses, cleanest sites and nice shade."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy camping spots. A camper at Moutardier Campground observed that "The sites are strategically stacked in each loop. Close but angled so you see a lot of your neighbors but a lot of scenery too." Another mentioned, "Many of the sites were right on the lake. They were close together but did not seem it as they were on different levels and angles."
Lake views: Waterfront camping is a highlight of the region. As one visitor to Dog Creek Campground remarked, "Seems all sites have a lake view" while another commented on the "sunset over the lake was spectacular." A camper at Wax Campground wrote, "Beautiful on the water. Don't expect anyone to greet you at the ranger station. It is unmanned."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. According to reviewers, Wilson Creek Recreation Area is only open during warmer months, and as of October 2023, was "closed permanently by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Green River Lake. It is now under the control of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. A camper at Smith Ridge noted, "Practically no cell service with Verizon or AT&T" while another at Dog Creek Campground reported, "No signal at all on my phone or my husband phone but it was okay."
Weather considerations: The region can experience severe weather. A camper at Singing Hills RV Park described their experience: "We pulled in later than we hoped to, because of stormy weather. When we arrived at 815pm, the storm was raging... Then the quarter + sized hail joined in. It was a crazy night, with a tornado hitting a town just 28 miles away."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer features specifically for children. At Holmes Bend, there's a "playground for the grandkids" and the facilities include "handicap areas throughout, shaded and non-shaded areas." One visitor noted that you'll find "Bathroom, shower house and playground are available."
Consider fishing options for children: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly fishing opportunities. As one camper described Singing Hills Campground: "There is a stock pond for kids to fish with bamboo poles that the park provides (catch & release only). My son caught his first fish that weekend and has been begging to go back already."
Pack for varying water conditions: Lake levels can change throughout the season. One visitor at Wax Campground mentioned, "I had been here only once in 2018. The water was up high so it made it an amazing waterfront campsite." Another camper suggested: "Tip: pick a site with trees so you can get some shade as it gets really hot during the day."
Tips from RVers
Understand site limitations: Not all sites accommodate larger RVs. One camper at Wax Campground recommended checking site specifications carefully, noting that "while we booked a 70' pull thru, it was actually down on the side of the hill with an almost 90° curve."
Plan for distance to supplies: Many campgrounds are remote. A camper at Moutardier suggested, "It is about 30 minutes from Mammoth Caves which was a great place to explore" and another noted, "you are about 30 min from a grocery store, so make sure you stock up before you go."
Check electrical options: Some campgrounds have electrical issues. At Smith Ridge, one RVer reported, "They have a known power issue, 30amp service went out several times at the pole. Their solution was to use less appliances." Many RV parks in the region offer 50-amp service, but always verify before arrival.
