Nolin Lake provides a hub for RV camping near Leitchfield, Kentucky with over 5,800 acres of water surface and 150 miles of shoreline. The region's mostly hardwood forest creates seasonal opportunities from spring's mild 70°F days to fall's colorful display when temperatures drop to the 50s. Most campgrounds sit between 500-700 feet elevation with terraced sites that maximize lake views.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Nolin Lake offers excellent bank fishing access at Dog Creek Campground where sites provide direct water access. "Good camping, although sites are somewhat close. Very few with shade, especially if you want 'water front'. Gravel pads are typically fairly level; water and electric at all but tent sites," reports Dennis G.
Hiking trails: The Shady Creek Trail at Moutardier Campground provides a 2-mile loop through woods and across small streams. "There is also 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 at one part," notes reviewer Pawsfuradventure T.
Water recreation: Multiple boat ramps provide lake access for kayaking, with many campers bringing personal watercraft. "We kayaked around the lake which was very enjoyable - saw ducks, and birds such as a grey heron. Also lots of fish jumping. There are power boats allowed in the lake," shares a Moutardier Campground visitor.
What campers like
Quiet weekday atmosphere: Mid-week stays offer the most serene experience when sites aren't fully booked. "Seems all sites have a lake view. Less than half full Sun-Tuesday," notes Lauren M. about Cave Country RV Campground, highlighting the advantage of weekday visits.
Halloween activities: The campgrounds host special seasonal events that attract families. "Family friendly Halloween fun. Has a decorating contest with trick or treat in the campground. Safe and clean with lots of restrooms and lake front sites," explains Laura O. about the fall festivities at Moutardier.
Swimming access: The lake water warms considerably during summer months, making it ideal for swimming. "The water was warm and calm. It is off the beaten path and you are about 30 min from a grocery store, so make sure you stock up before you go," advises Faith J. about her experience at Wax Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between providers and location. "No signal at all on my phone or my husband phone but it was okay. Over all had a great time," reports Linda T. about her stay at Dog Creek Campground.
Distance to supplies: Most campgrounds require planning ahead for groceries and supplies. "It is off the beaten path and you are about 30 min from a grocery store, so make sure you stock up before you go. There are several road side veggie stands where you can get fresh from the ground veggies," advises Faith J.
Variable water levels: Lake levels can change significantly based on season and rainfall. "We chose a site with trees so you can get some shade as it gets really hot during the day," recommends Mashael A., noting the importance of considering shade when the lake is hot and sunny.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Multiple play areas keep children entertained at many campgrounds. "3 playgrounds with safe clean equipment. Plant of lake view sites and positioned to provide a semi private experience," notes Laura O. about Moutardier Campground's family-friendly facilities.
Fishing for kids: Singing Hills RV Park offers a stocked catch-and-release pond with provided equipment. "There is a stock pond for kids to fish with bamboo poles that the park provides (catch & release only). We really enjoyed our 2 day stay," shares Nomadic L.
Site selection for families: Look for sites with adequate space for multiple tents and gathering areas. "Absolutely loved tent camping here! Several modern bath houses with showers, toilets and sinks. Tent sites are spacious enough for multiple tents/canopy's to be set up," recommends Laura O. about Moutardier's accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require careful setup and leveling equipment. "Sites in row B are 30 amp hookups. Some sites has short concrete pads in between gravel while others are just gravel. I would not recommend the concrete pads as most of them are too short for most rigs and will make it challenging to level," advises Jason F. about Diamond Caverns RV Resort.
Road navigation: Approach routes can be challenging for larger rigs. "The road in/out is very narrow, very tight and not easily navigated with a 40' 5th wheel. Also, be very careful about sites, many are extremely undeveloped and while we booked a 70' pull thru, it was actually down on the side of the hill with an almost 90° curve," warns Jennifer about Wax Campground.
Site spacing considerations: Many campgrounds have close sites that limit privacy. "Good camping, although sites are somewhat close. Very few with shade, especially if you want 'water front'. Gravel pads are typically fairly level; water and electric at all but tent sites," notes Dennis G. about his experience.
