Dispersed camping options near Lexington, Kentucky provide varied terrain with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. The region features a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons and annual precipitation averaging 45 inches. Many campgrounds lie within the Kentucky River watershed, creating diverse waterside camping environments from riverside tent sites to lake-view RV spots.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Cummins Ferry RV Park, campers can fish directly from the docks on the Kentucky River. "There is a dock and a boat ramp. The customer service is exceptional. Under new management since November, they are making some very nice upgrades," notes reviewer Stacey.
Paddling access: Many campgrounds provide direct river access for kayaking and canoeing. "This is a small well maintained campground right on the Kentucky river. It is down in a hollow which makes it secluded and quiet," explains a camper about Cummins Ferry.
Nature trails: Lago Linda Hideaway offers on-site hiking trails through wooded areas. According to Sarah H., "The trail around the lake was very nice, short but hilly so a good morning walk. It rained the first evening which led to some pretty little waterfalls the next day."
Outdoor facilities: Several campgrounds feature basketball courts, playgrounds, and recreation areas. "They have a playground for the kids, paddleboats and such for rent at a reasonable price, firewood for sale, and the showerhouse is clean," states Dawn B. about Lake Shelby.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Riverside camping is popular in the region. "Our sites overlooked the river and we loved the walking trails along the river! We had kids that fished and played in the playground and sat by the fire every night," shares Maison H. about their stay at Cummins Ferry RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: The area's diverse ecosystems attract various wildlife. One camper at Lake Shelby notes, "Great space between the tent sites, but virtually no real privacy as public traffic into park was steady. Awesome wildlife for a park within the city: herons, geese (except for poop), ducks, turtles, beavers."
Community amenities: Three Springs Campground provides facilities for group gatherings. Reviewer Marci R. mentions, "Park is nice with lots of trees and water. Small rental cabins surround the park. Owners are very nice and very helpful with tips and suggestions for the RV, and local eateries."
Weekend entertainment: Some campgrounds schedule regular activities. One reviewer points out that Cummins Ferry offers "live music and food trucks every Saturday are a nice touch!"
What you should know
Site spacing: Campground layouts vary considerably throughout the region. At Lake Shelby Campground, "Only 10 RV spots, 9 have electric and water hook ups. It was awesome backing into the spot as there is ample asphalt in front of all the sites. The sites are close to one another but it did not bother me," explains Amber C.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping is available but with limitations. "This campground is open year-round, but some amenities may be limited during winter months," notes management information about several properties.
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely by location. About Red River Adventure, one camper states, "It felt extremely remote and secluded and private too! The campsites are very large and spacious - they have firewood and porta-potties on site and its right along the river. Our favorite campsite in the gorge - especially because it has no cell service!"
Bathroom facilities: Quality of restrooms can differ significantly. A reviewer at Three Springs notes, "Bathrooms are clean," while another camper mentions, "Only one bathroom for the whole site."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds offer specific recreation for children. At Cummins Ferry, a camper shares, "We spent 2 nights at Cummins Ferry with 2 other families! We absolutely LOVED it! The kids that fished and played in the playground and sat by the fire every night!"
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, glamping in Lexington, Kentucky area offers a comfortable introduction. At Camp Nelson RV Park, "The pool is nice although they do sell memberships to it for outside folks to use which means there can be a lot of people there on a holiday or very warm day."
Choose campgrounds with water features: Lakes and streams provide natural entertainment. A visitor to Three Springs mentioned, "Park is nice with lots of trees and water. Small rental cabins surround the park," and another noted their children "caught crawfish in" the creek.
Pack for weather changes: Kentucky's climate can shift rapidly. One camper at Lake Shelby advises, "We set up camp as the sun was setting. It was beautiful! There was an awesome play area for the kids and the shower facilities were clean."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many regional campgrounds have uneven terrain. At 4 Guys RV Park, "Large level sites. Commercial campground, so sites are close without trees to separate. Very clean restrooms. Pool, fishing lake," reports Anne D.
Power options: Electric service varies by location. "30/50 amp full hook ups with a number of pull throughs. The sites next to the river are level and easy to back into," notes a camper at Cummins Ferry.
Approach challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. A camper warns, "Final approach/exit to the park is very steep. Beautiful sites but fairly close together. Gravelled roads and pads surrounded by forest with three small streams cutting through. Sites are not particularly level."
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. A visitor to Three Springs states, "Since the park wasn't full, the owners let us park our truck in site next to us. We stayed in our 38' travel trailer with our Ford F250 truck."
