Camping opportunities around Nancy, Kentucky blend natural beauty with convenience. Located in Pulaski County near Lake Cumberland, the area sits in rolling hills where summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F. Campsites in this region can be found at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, offering cooler evening temperatures than surrounding lowlands even during July and August.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Kendall Campground offers prime fishing locations on the Cumberland River with proximity to the National Fish Hatchery. "The trout stream is beautiful and you can always see plenty of wildlife," notes Paula H., who particularly recommends the fishing areas.
Hiking trail exploration: Multiple trail systems crisscross the region with varying difficulty levels. "The trails are varied and pretty cool. They twist and turn and cross creeks and hill tops," says Shelly S. about Pulaski County Park, adding "I'm surprised they don't have a tree top trail or zip line."
Lake activities: Water sports dominate summer recreation with multiple boat ramps available. "This campground has boat ramp very accessible," explains Angie B. about Pulaski County Park, while Kenny P. notes, "Cool fog off the river makes camping conditions comfortable in the hottest weather."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Privacy-focused campers appreciate the separation between sites at certain campgrounds. "The sites are spread out well and not overcrowded," mentions a reviewer about Great Meadows Campground, while Steven S. notes, "Good primitive sites" at Pulaski County Park.
Water views: Many campers prioritize waterfront locations. "Most sites don't offer much privacy, but the views of the river are so nice," notes Laura E. about Waitsboro Campground. Another camper adds that you can "Fall asleep to the sound of the gentle lapping of the water!"
Family recreation options: Multiple play areas and activities keep children entertained. Katie M. explains, "There are several play ground areas close by for the kids to play," adding, "There is several different types of camp areas ranging from primitive to cabins."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most camping facilities operate within limited timeframes. "Spent the last 2 weeks of the season here and enjoyed our stay," notes a camper about Kendall Campground, highlighting how operations typically wind down in late fall.
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and cleanliness of facilities fluctuate between locations and seasons. "Bathhouse; showers are so outdated and barely cleaned and just gross," warns Julie B. about one location, while at Blue Heron Campground campers report "Clean bathrooms with showers."
Limited cell service: Communication can be challenging in some areas. One camper at Great Meadows notes, "The drive there is a little long and no cell service for the most part but isn't that what camping is about anyway."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple accommodation options: Families have various lodging choices beyond standard camping. "This campground is great for larger groups, as they allow multiple tents/campers per site," states a camper, while Katie M. says, "There are several different types of camp areas ranging from primitive to cabins."
Water activities for kids: Several locations feature child-friendly water access. "Great beach access. Quite and very clean," shares Lee-Ann R. about Pulaski County Park, while John P. mentions Laurel Lake Camping Resort has "a pond for swimming with nice Sandy beach. They also put out bouncy houses for the kids at no extra cost."
Glamping alternatives: Families seeking comfort can find upscale options near Nancy, Kentucky. "Site is secluded from other campers, so you'll be immersed in nature. This is a comfortable site, that doesn't require you to rough it," says Ashley F. about Hidden Ridge Camping glamping tents.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose RV sites based on specific needs and size. "The sites are big but not level. We put one side of the RV on the pad and the other in the gravel just to be level," advises an RVer about General Burnside State Park, noting how sites can be "awkwardly diagonal in places."
Amenities access: Utilities are placed with varying convenience. "Utilities placed conveniently close to rv pads," notes Travis S. at General Burnside Island State Park, while another camper mentions, "The campgrounds were clean and well maintained... no dump station or trash cans. So be prepared to pack your shit out."
Leveling challenges: Many lakeside campgrounds feature sloped terrain. "The site I was in was on such a steep hill I left early because I was afraid I would break my leg getting in and out if my camper," shares Candy H., highlighting the importance of researching site topography before booking.
