The Jamestown area in Kentucky offers access to multiple lakes including Green River Lake and Lake Cumberland, making it a popular camping destination. Campgrounds in the region operate at elevations between 700-800 feet with humid summers and mild spring and fall seasons. Most RV sites sit within 1-2 miles of lake access points, providing convenient water recreation opportunities.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Holmes Bend, visitors can explore several miles of nature paths. "The best are the hiking trails. It's a short drive or walk thru the woods to trail head. Fishers bend has over 5 miles of trails," notes Kenny P.
Fishing access: Green River Lake offers excellent fishing spots accessible from multiple campgrounds. A visitor at Smith Ridge Green River Lake reports, "I've been to a couple of CoE campgrounds before but this is now my favorite one. I had Site 31 right beside the Woodland Trail entrance but you're pretty close to the lake (the boat ramp is about a 1/2 mile as the crow flies)."
Beach swimming: Several campgrounds provide beach access for swimming. At Wilson Creek Recreation Area, Jessica C. mentioned, "You're also only a short walk from the beach which is nice. The area is also patrolled at random hours throughout the night to make you feel a little safer."
Boating options: Lake access for boats is available at multiple sites. A reviewer at Pikes Ridge stated, "The best campground on GRL!!! Only flaw.... no showers!" Many campgrounds have nearby boat ramps or direct water access.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generous site sizes. At COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge, one camper noted, "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."
Clean facilities: Despite being somewhat rustic, many campgrounds maintain clean bathhouses. Thomas R. at Holmes Bend observed, "Any site is well kept along with all the grounds. Bath houses are cleaned thoroughly every morning. Playgrounds are cleaned everyday."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to see native wildlife. "Walking around you will find wildlife. Lots of deer and turtles and birds," reports a Holmes Bend visitor.
Playground areas: Families appreciate the playgrounds available at select campgrounds. According to a visitor at Off The Hook RV Campground, "There is an AWESOME playground and pavilion set back in the trees! My grand loved the ropes course."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely by location and carrier. A Smith Ridge camper warns, "Practically no cell service with Verizon or AT&T." Plan accordingly and download maps or information before arrival.
Power reliability concerns: Some campgrounds have reported electrical issues. At Smith Ridge, one reviewer noted, "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."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. Wilson Creek Recreation Area provides a basic experience as described by GoWhereYouAreDraw N.: "Pit toilets, fire rings, and tables. No trash cans so pack it all out!"
Seasonal operation: Most rv parks near Jamestown, Kentucky operate seasonally with limited off-season availability. Holmes Bend runs from April 18 to October 26, while Smith Ridge operates May 16 to September 14.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shaded sites: Summer heat can be intense, so seek out shaded camping spots. Beth H. at Holmes Bend advises, "Nice clean and well maintained campground. Paved roadways great for biking and walking. Some spaces and turns would be tight for larger rigs."
Visit local attractions: There are family-friendly destinations within driving distance. Lynn G. mentions, "Not much to do on site if you don't have a boat. Swimming on site. Nearby there are historic sites and lots of hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking at Green River Lake State Park."
Plan for weather changes: Kentucky weather can shift quickly, especially in spring and fall. At Wilson Creek Recreation Area, a long-term visitor suggests, "I have camped several times here over the years... there are 5 camps sites outhouse type toilets and trash cans all get cleaned daily when it gets hot u may wanna bring airfreshner to the toilets."
Pack extra water: Many campgrounds have limited or no water access at individual sites. A Wilson Creek visitor noted, "Bring plenty of water" as this is essential, especially at primitive sites during summer.
Tips from RVers
Bring stabilization equipment: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Old Chimney RV Park, which offers 20 sites with full hookups, a visitor observed, "This is a small campground that appears to be new. FHU and good WiFi throughout the grounds. Limited shaded sites."
Check rig size limitations: Not all Jamestown Kentucky RV parks accommodate large vehicles. As noted at McDermit RV Park, "The sites are large and the one I had offered privacy. I'd stay again. Very pretty and close to Dale Hollow Lake." McDermit has 15 sites with full hookups and paved roadways that support larger vehicles.
Watch turn radii: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. At Holmes Bend, a reviewer pointed out, "Some spaces and turns would be tight for larger rigs."
Prepare for hookup limitations: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. A Smith Ridge visitor reported power challenges: "Location was excellent, close to the water. They have a known power issue, 30amp service went out several times at the pole."
