Pet friendly camping near Mount Vernon, Kentucky offers several options for campers with animals within an hour's drive of this central Kentucky town. The area features rolling hills at elevations between 900-1,200 feet with moderate temperatures ranging from 40-85°F through most of the camping season. Campgrounds in this region typically maintain standard leash requirements and waste cleanup policies, though specific pet amenities vary by location.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Moffitt Rec Area provides access to a stocked lake where many campers enjoy quiet angling. According to Tammy, "I absolutely loved staying here. Yes I am local. Beautiful scenery. Very quiet."
Go-kart riding: Diamond Lake Resort Campground offers recreational vehicles for guests. Megan W. noted, "We camped here and enjoyed our time fishing and going on the go carts. It was also nice to ride the golf cart around the park to get around. We brought ours but you can also rent."
BMX track access: Burdette Park features a dedicated BMX racing area with regular events. One visitor shared, "BMX racing on Friday nights and tons of shelters for your get-togethers! Wonderful camp managers!"
Mountain biking: Trails suitable for mountain biking can be found at several parks in the region. Dave C. mentioned that Harmonie State Park Campground has "paved roads the kids can bike on as well as mountain bike trails."
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room between camping spots. One reviewer at Harmonie State Park Campground commented, "Campsites are spacious. Many places for large groups to camp when they put multiple sites together."
Water recreation: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas or water access. According to a review, "Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions."
Privacy at primitive sites: Scales Lake Park offers more secluded options for those seeking space. Laura D. noted, "We prefer the primitive sites on the other side of the lake. Literally just a picnic table and fire pit. There's pit toilets nearby."
Family atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the community feel at local campgrounds. Chris Y. described Diamond Lake Resort Campground as a "Great campground with lots of activities and a family friendly and neighborhood atmosphere."
What You Should Know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. John James Audubon State Park Campground runs from April to November, while other parks like Moffitt Rec Area are open "April 1 to December 1."
Cash payment policies: Some campgrounds have limited payment options. A review for Windy Hollow Camp and Recreation advises, "Be sure to grab some cash on your way out because they accept nothing else at the moment."
Site spacing variations: Campground density varies significantly between locations and specific site types. At Diamond Lake Resort Campground, Dave B. observed, "This is a resort not a get away from it all camping. Sites are close, as in any resort style campground."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife interactions. One camper at Harmonie State Park Campground reported, "Our only problem was 1 or more raccoons kept coming into our site. We shooed them away but they kept coming back."
Tips for Camping with Families
Multiple playgrounds: Family-friendly facilities enhance camping experiences for children. A reviewer noted about Harmonie State Park Campground, "There are 3 playgrounds throughout the campground."
Halloween events: Several campgrounds host special seasonal activities. Nichole M. shared, "They had a trunk or treat in the pool parking lot and although there weren't a ton of vehicles, it was definitely enough for the kids to have fun trick or treating."
Petting zoo access: Camp Safe Haven by Earthbound Lodging offers unique animal encounters. Jessica D. mentioned the campground "Does have above ground pool along with swing set, trampoline for kiddos. Kid, pet friendly!!"
Swimming options: Water activities are available at multiple locations. One visitor to Scales Lake Park commented, "There's a beach for swimming and a shower house. The RV sites are kinda cramped. We prefer the primitive sites on the other side of the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require more setup work than others. A reviewer at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph noted, "Our spot was great and didn't require much leveling. We did get a deluxe spot."
Parking challenges: Navigation within some campgrounds can be difficult. A camper observed, "Driving in and out was a bit challenging mainly because a lot of people parked their vehicles/golf carts at the edge of the road or partly on it."
Hookup availability: Utilities vary significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. At Harmonie State Park Campground, a reviewer noted, "No full hookups but there is a dump station," while other campgrounds offer full-service connections.
