Best Campgrounds near Mount Vernon, KY

Campgrounds near Mount Vernon, Kentucky primarily concentrate in the surrounding regions, with options like Diamond Lake Resort Campground and John James Audubon State Park Campground providing established camping facilities within driving distance. The area features a mix of accommodation types including tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin rentals, with most developed campgrounds offering basic amenities such as drinking water, electric hookups, and shower facilities. Several campgrounds in the region maintain year-round operations, though some like John James Audubon State Park operate seasonally from April through November.

Seasonal considerations affect campground availability throughout the region, with some facilities closing during winter months. Most established campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer and holiday weekends when sites fill quickly. The terrain varies across the region, with some campgrounds situated near lakes, rivers, or recreational areas offering water-based activities. Visitors should note that cell service can be variable outside urban areas, and road conditions may require consideration when planning trips with larger RVs or trailers. One camper described the experience at John James Audubon State Park as "a beautiful area of land with a gorgeous lake."

Many campgrounds in the region feature water access as a primary attraction, with fishing opportunities available at several locations. Campers report varying site sizes and privacy levels across different facilities, with some offering spacious accommodations while others place sites in closer proximity. The camping experience differs between private resorts and state park facilities, with private campgrounds like Diamond Lake Resort typically offering more amenities and planned activities. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campers should be aware that some campgrounds near highways may experience traffic noise, as one visitor noted: "The campground is laid out parallel to highway 41. The sound of traffic whizzing by on the highway is constant." Family-friendly amenities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, and recreational activities are available at several of the larger resort-style campgrounds in the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Mount Vernon, Kentucky (48)

    1. Diamond Lake Resort Campground

    8 Reviews
    Mount Vernon, KY
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 229-4900

    $34 - $38 / night

    "This is a resort not a get away from it all camping. It is well maintained, friendly staff, lots to do for kids. Sites are close, as in any resort style campground."

    "It was also nice to ride the golf cart around the park to get around. We brought ours but you can also rent. The swimming pool stays pretty full but is nice."

    3. Windy Hollow Camp and Recreation

    3 Reviews
    Mount Vernon, KY
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 785-4150

    "Tucked in and away a beautiful holler, this is what modern day camping is at its finest. The staff are amazing, and friendly."

    4. Livermore RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Mount Vernon, KY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 278-2854

    "These sites are right off the green river, there is a boat ramp adjacent. Good people all around , and the monthly is amazingly low. You can opt to pay for 50 or 30 amp service."

    5. John James Audubon State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Henderson, KY
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 826-2247

    $20 - $34 / night

    "Near Henderson, Ky off the Pennyrile Parkway and a stone throw away from Evansville, In. The campground is at the front of the park. Not huge, and it was not crowded when we visited."

    "Only downside is if you pick a campsite along the right side of the area, the other side of the fence is highway 41 so you will get traffic noise at all times."

    6. Scales Lake Park

    17 Reviews
    Boonville, IN
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 897-6200

    $17 - $140 / night

    "Campsites are tight but all centered around a decent sized bath house."

    "Scales Lake Park is right outside Boonville, In on South Parklane Dr. I drove through the RV park, it was okay."

    7. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph

    33 Reviews
    Santa Claus, IN
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4458

    $45 - $101 / night

    "This is a fun family Campground located adjacent to holiday world and Splashin Safari. There are golf carts for rent, nice camp stores, pools, playground, putt putt golf course, arcade and more."

    "Great anemities and close proximity to attractions. Visit during the Halloween season for tons of family fun."

    8. Burdette Park

    8 Reviews
    Evansville, IN
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 435-5602

    "A park on the outskirts of Evansville Indiana. Has many things to do for the weekend. Many nearby attractions and activities."

    "Burdette Park is right outside Evansville, In. And BUSY. BMX track, HUGE swimming pool/water park with slides and several other outdoor activities."

    9. Moffitt Rec Area

    4 Reviews
    Morganfield, KY
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 333-4845

    10. Harmonie State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    New Harmony, IN
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 682-4821

    $20 - $23 / night

    "Multiple walking trails and bike trails. Nice shelter houses and picnic areas. Multiple playgrounds. Nature center in the campground. Many events scheduled for summer."

    "It was at the back of the campground, but close to the bathrooms/showers and just across from the playground. It was close enough to walk to the Nature Center and grab ice cream."

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Recent Reviews near Mount Vernon, KY

259 Reviews of 48 Mount Vernon Campgrounds


  • John D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    John James Audubon State Park Campground

    Last Time

    This is the 3rd or 4th time. Usually last stop before home. 3pm on Saturday and not one staff on site when we arrived. Car on loop area making it hard to get trailer into site, just missing the car with my truck. No picnic table at site so unable to get grill out. 15-20 trailers resting on blocks and above ground dump at each site. Large propane tanks. Looks like permanent sites and most didn't have anyone there. A bit disappointed

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Vanderburgh 4H Campground

    Convenient to Evansville

    This is our Favorite campground in Evansville we have stayed here multiple times when in town to visit our son. Level pull through FHU clean nice afternoon shade. The sites are nearby but feels more roomy than it is. We stay here everytime we can.

  • Krystal E.
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Burdette Park

    Not for recreational camping

    This was the weirdest place I've ever camped. The sites are in these very tight spaces with narrow roads. There are no campfires allowed, and your camper door opens right to the road. Check in is 2 pm SHARP (if you are arriving any later than that, the office is closed and it is a big inconvenience to the campground warden to assist you). And let me tell you, check out is SHARPLY 1:00pm. If you are not off their property at 1:01pm you WILL be charged another night. Strangest and least welcoming camping trip of my life!!

  • L
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Cave-in-Rock State Park

    Beautiful, empty, cheap state park

    We are the only campers here in a very well kept campground. The bathrooms are clean and the only sound is from the birds. $20 for a state park site with electricity is incredible. It is out of the way (we took the ferry from Kentucky).

  • Fred R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park

    Cross country trip

    First stop and a Natl park. This place was crazy packed due to concert and drone show. We missed both. It was tight to get into but made it work. Shade trees are plenty with hiking trails all around.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2025

    Hoosier National Forest

    Good spot out of the way and close to the Ohio River

    Big spot for almost any type of camper. Deep woods

  • Shirlee A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    Rocky Falls Campground & RV Park

    Not recommended

    Close to the road and behind a dollar store We came because we thought we can swim but you cannot.

    Everything is old and broken down including the park and toys. And super expensive price for what you are getting.

    Not such good vibes from the people living there. Don’t think it’s suitable for families

  • Richy R.
    Apr. 2, 2025

    Lake Mauzy East

    Harris-Dickerson WMA (Free) – A Hidden Gem on the Lake!

    This is an amazing spot for free camping! The tent pads are right by the water, offering stunning lake views. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring, picnic table, and access to toilets—everything you need for a comfortable stay. Despite its remote feel, Walmart is just a 12-minute drive away for any last-minute supplies. We would have loved to stay longer, but incoming storms cut our trip short. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway! No electricity or showers!


Guide to Mount Vernon

Camping sites near Mount Vernon, Kentucky range from lakeside settings to forested areas with elevation changes throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60-75°F range. Visitors can access both private resorts with extensive amenities and county-operated facilities with more basic services, all within a 1-2 hour drive of Mount Vernon.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: At Windy Hollow Camp and Recreation, campers can access water activities in a secluded setting. One visitor described it as "tucked in and away a beautiful holler, this is what modern day camping is at its finest."

Swimming options: Scales Lake Park features a designated swimming area with water recreation amenities. A camper noted, "a beautiful lake front for swimming with water slide and diving boards. There is a boat ramp for fishing boats and kayaks."

Hiking trails: Several parks offer hiking opportunities through varied terrain. At Harmonie State Park Campground, campers can explore designated paths of different difficulty levels. One visitor commented, "They have a nature center in the middle of the campground that is open Thursday-Sunday in the summer."

What campers like

Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide ample space between sites, which campers appreciate. At John James Audubon State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "it's never been crowded when we went which is nice for our family. There are some very nice hiking trails and a great museum and nature center."

Proximity to attractions: Some campsites serve as convenient bases for exploring local attractions. A camper at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph shared, "Lake Rudolph is a nicely themed campground, right in line with the nearby town, Santa Claus, IN. It is conveniently located beside one of the best theme parks in the midwest, Holiday World."

Quiet atmosphere: Many visitors value peaceful camping experiences. One camper at Moffitt Rec Area described it as "Very quiet and peaceful. You should bring what you need with you so you don't have to leave the campground. Very secluded camping."

What you should know

Seasonal operations: While some campgrounds operate year-round, others close during winter months. At Moffitt Rec Area, the season runs "April 1 to December 1," making advance planning essential for off-season travel.

Site proximity variations: Campsite spacing differs significantly between locations. A visitor to Diamond Lake Resort Campground reported, "The campsites are very close together," while another noted, "sites are pretty close together at the sites we stayed at (there were some larger ones) and we enjoy a little more room."

Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. At Harmonie State Park Campground, Halloween weekends are particularly popular: "Apparently that weekend has to be reserved the day reservations open for it."

Tips for camping with families

Look for dedicated amenities: Several campgrounds offer family-specific facilities. Burdette Park includes "BMX track, HUGE swimming pool/water park with slides and several other outdoor activities." A visitor noted, "They have everything to keep your family entertained. A pool, mini golf, hiking cabins and so much more."

Consider cabin options: For families wanting more comfort, cabin rentals provide alternatives to tent camping. Camp Safe Haven by Earthbound Lodging offers a small-scale experience where, according to one visitor, the property has "above ground pool along with swing set, trampoline for kiddos. Kid, pet friendly!! Open all year!!"

Check for organized activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular family events. At Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, "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!"

Tips from RVers

Site leveling requirements: RV campers should prepare for varying site conditions. At Scales Lake Park, one RVer mentioned, "There are primitive, cabins, and RV camping. The camp has so much to do for kids and adults."

Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer connections vary between campgrounds. A visitor to Diamond Lake Resort Campground described it as having "Full hook ups, good cell service, WiFi is an additional cost."

Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. For Scales Lake Park, a visitor warned, "The streets in the town are extremely narrow, making it hard to get into the park."

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available in Mount Vernon, Kentucky?

While Mount Vernon itself has limited camping options, the surrounding region offers several good choices. Hopewell RV Park is located just a short drive away, offering full hookups and convenient access from US Highway 431. It's about 5 miles south of Western Kentucky Parkway, making it an excellent choice for travelers. For those willing to venture slightly further, Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park provides a more nature-immersed experience with access to hiking trails, including the 13.5-mile Pennyrile Nature Trail. Both locations are family-friendly and offer essential amenities for comfortable camping experiences.

Is there a KOA campground in Mount Vernon, Kentucky?

There is no KOA campground directly in Mount Vernon, Kentucky. The nearest camping options include Cave Creek Recreation Area at Rough River Lake and Cave-in-Rock State Park. Cave-in-Rock offers affordable state park camping with electricity for about $20 per night and clean facilities. It's accessible via ferry from Kentucky, though somewhat remote. For travelers specifically seeking a KOA experience with typical KOA amenities like pools, activities, and full hookups, you'll need to check locations in larger nearby cities as Mount Vernon doesn't host a KOA franchise.

Where can I find tent camping sites near Mount Vernon, Kentucky?

For tent camping near Mount Vernon, Kentucky, Tower Rock Campground offers primitive sites with tables and fire pits. While it requires crossing into Illinois (via ferry from Kentucky), this campground provides beautiful views of the Ohio River and basic amenities including pit toilets. Another option is Camp Cadiz Campground, a small, rustic camp at the edge of Shawnee National Forest. This secluded spot is perfect for tent campers seeking a more natural experience, though it can get busy during turkey hunting season. Both locations are ideal for those who prefer simpler camping experiences close to nature.