Tent campsites near Mount Vernon, Kentucky are situated in the eastern foothills of the Appalachian region, with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,100 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer more moderate 60-75°F temperatures. The region receives approximately 46 inches of annual rainfall, making waterproof gear essential during the May-September thunderstorm season.
What to do
Hike nearby trails: Camp Cadiz Campground serves as an access point for the River to River trail that runs through the Shawnee National Forest. "The hiking trails that headed out from the camp were wonderful. We even hiked down the forest road and found a hidden cemetery tucked away. The river to river trail heads out from camp too - we saw a group of backpackers leave their cars and head off for the night," notes reviewer Art S. from Camp Cadiz Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Tower Rock's location on the Ohio River makes it popular with anglers. As Christopher H. explains about Tower Rock Campground, "I have camped there 2-3 times... A short walk from the campground is Tower Rock that was an old CCC path and over look of the Ohio River. Last time I was there it is a bit of a pain to find the old path, but basically from the boat landing go UP... follow the terrain and you will find it."
Wildlife observation: The natural setting provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. At Lake Mauzy East, campers report seeing diverse wildlife. One camper, Adrianne, noted, "Super quiet, tons of birds, and we saw snake mounds but not yet seen one...birds and butterflies and owls...OH MY."
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Lake Mauzy East offers direct access to the water with well-positioned tent pads. According to Richy R. at Lake Mauzy East, "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."
Quiet, remote settings: The smaller campgrounds in the area offer peace away from crowds. "Stayed here in March 2020. My favorite part about this campground was that there were only 8 campsites so it was very quiet and remote. I arrived at 7pm on Friday and snagged the last site," shares Hannah F. about Camp Cadiz.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature larger-than-average tent sites. Jeremy G. explains why he chose Camp Cadiz: "Motorcycle camping across America and I wanted to see grades of the gods. What I didn't want was to camp on top of someone else... Cadiz was spacious, quiet, and the other campers wanted to camp not party. Stayed an extra day because of it."
What you should know
Limited services: Most campsites lack modern amenities. Tammy describes Lake Mauzy East: "Lake mauzy is very quiet. No hookups but if you want to boondocks this is a great place."
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close during certain periods. J C. notes about Tower Rock: "Campground is smaller but the sites are spread out well, most have fire ring with grill stand and table, firewood available to gather onsite when I was there, vault toilets, right on the river so may be closed during flood seasons."
Water supply considerations: Potable water availability varies between campgrounds. Ryan P. describes Camp Cadiz: "This camp ground is only about 10 min from Garden Of The Gods. It's down a gravel road a bit but nothing too hard to find. The spaces are wide open and big for multiple tents. There is well water, a bathroom (open septic tank) for pit and picnic table at each site."
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to supplies: Some campgrounds offer good access to essential supplies despite feeling remote. Richy R. notes about Lake Mauzy East: "Despite its remote feel, Walmart is just a 12-minute drive away for any last-minute supplies."
Consider camp layout: Choose sites based on your needs and potential drawbacks. At Camp Cadiz Campground, Art S. advises: "We had site choices that ended up being along the gravel forest road that goes by camp. This put us away from other dogs but caused other issues. Every vehicle that went by generated dust which then coated everything in our camp. If you come here, we suggest taking the site that is furthest from the road."
Wildlife awareness: Be prepared for various wildlife encounters, especially with children. Chelsea D. mentions, "I love this campground. It's super quiet despite the gravel road nearby. The vault restroom is kept very clean. It has easy access to the River to River trail, and I love the CCC stonework. While we were there, a small pack of 3 local dogs wandered through the campground which was a bit concerning at first, but they were all friendly, so no issues there."
Tips from RVers
Boondocking options: RVs with self-contained systems will find suitable off-grid opportunities. Shelly S. describes Tower Rock Campground: "Tower Rock is boonyville like most of the Shawnee NF sites in this area. Perfect for a get away from the hustle and electronics of city life. The actual campground is basically a mowed area in the woods close to the river."
Resource management: Plan carefully for supplies and waste management. Kate B. observes about Tower Rock: "Very small, on the river, vault toilets, seems like people 'live' there and run a generator all night long. Good if you like free, being close to the ferry, and or fish."
Local attractions: The area offers side trips worth exploring with an RV. Christopher H. suggests: "But if you drive a few miles North East there is a Illinois State Park, Cave in the Rock I think, and you can refill your water jugs/bladders there by the showers/bathrooms, and there are garbage dumsters. The Cave off the Ohio River is definitely worth seeing, and free, so why not."
