Waterfront sites with direct boat access define many camping options near New Concord, Kentucky. The area's recreational zones along Kentucky Lake feature campsites ranging from basic grounds with vault toilets to developed campgrounds with concrete pads and full amenities. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 30-40°F range with occasional freezing precipitation, creating seasonal camping considerations for visitors planning extended stays.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground offers direct lake access from waterfront sites. "We took two different weekends at Piney Campground and both times were able to get waterside spots and drop the kayaks right in at the campsite," notes one visitor. Kayakers can explore protected coves with minimal boat traffic during weekday visits.
Mountain biking trails: Campers at Hillman Ferry Campground can access trail systems directly from the camping area. "A premier and amazing mountain bike trail system is accessible directly from campground!! The Canal Loop Trail and North South Trails are well known and revered by area mountain bikers and hikers," reports one reviewer. The trails offer varying difficulty levels with connections to the wider Land Between the Lakes network.
Historical sites: Within walking distance of some camping areas are historical points of interest. A camper at Boswell Landing mentioned, "Within walking distance of the campground, down the paved road are a few notable things: Buchanan Cemetery, which is a civil war cemetery, and the site of Fort Henry." These sites provide cultural context for the region's development.
What campers like
Elevated lakefront views: Multiple campgrounds offer sites with distinctive viewpoints. At Redd Hollow, "We stayed at the campsite farthest in the back that stands up on a hill. You're near rocky beaches but you overlook it from about 20-25 feet above. Really beautiful!" This perspective provides both privacy and scenic vantage points for water activities below.
Water access variety: The shallow entry points at certain campgrounds create family-friendly swimming areas. One Redd Hollow visitor noted, "The back end of Redd Hollow is shallow. Nice place to wade for kids." Another camper at Piney Campground mentioned being able to "walk out into the water a good 30-40ft before getting too deep. Bottom is soft mud."
Bathroom facilities: Campground toilets receive mixed reviews based on type and maintenance. One camper at Boswell Landing Campground remarked, "There is single toilet facility for all of the sites, this toilet was the cleanest public camping toilet I've ever seen." At Paris Landing State Park, "The bathhouse was really nice, felt new and was very clean."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Communication remains challenging throughout the area. Hillman Ferry visitors note "No WiFi or internet service. Cell signal in prior years have been spotty." This creates a true disconnected experience but requires advance planning for emergency contact needs.
Road conditions: Several camping areas require navigating unpaved surfaces. At Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area, "The gravel road back can be rough especially right after a big rain but you can avoid most of the holes." Some roads demand appropriate vehicles: "You will need a four-wheel drive to traverse the actual campground point."
Site conditions: Expect variable leveling across campgrounds. At Paris Landing State Park, "Seems like many are unlevel. Our picnic table was at a very noticeable slant." Sites at Kenlake State Park have similar issues: "Level? Not so much. Unless you are a master truck driver, and pull a trailer less than 24', you are in trouble backing into most sites."
Winter considerations: While most campgrounds operate year-round, facilities change seasonally. One winter visitor to Paris Landing noted, "Bathrooms were nice, restaurant was closed for the season." Off-season camping offers solitude but reduced services.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Paris Landing-Kentucky Lake KOA, there's "a fun gemmine for the kiddos" alongside other amenities. Hillman Ferry Campground features "2 playgrounds, multiple bath houses and a cute little store that you can walk/bike to."
Bike-friendly zones: Children enjoy the road networks within larger campgrounds. At Hillman Ferry, visitors observe "lots of kids riding bikes and playing everywhere!" One review notes: "Bring your bikes or golf cart. Be sure to venture out to the nature center and other nearby attractions."
Wildlife viewing: Camping areas offer opportunities to observe local species. One visitor at Paris Landing State Park mentioned "Great wildlife and leaf peeping in the fall! The hiking trails we found were perfect length for the kids (ages 5-9 at the time)." Nearby attractions like the Elk and Bison Prairie near Golden Pond Visitors Center offer additional wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV campers, certain campgrounds offer more suitable accommodations. At Eagles Nest RV Park, "Each pad is concrete and has its own patio and plenty of shade trees." According to visitors, "It has all concrete pads with full service utility kiosks. Each campsite has plenty of room and comes with its own patio and cable TV connection."
Hookup considerations: Water and electrical connections vary significantly between campgrounds. At Piney Campground, visitors recommend you "Fill up your freshwater before you get to your site! Overall, I'd recommend if you can get a spot on the water, or you bring a boat. The inland spots can be a bit more cramped and there's no view."
Access challenges: Larger RVs face limitations at some campgrounds. One visitor to Kenlake State Park warned, "Big RVers probably should stay away when this campground is full. We watched a fifth wheel almost get stuck on their way out." Extension cords may also be needed as "Electric hook up a bit far from camper. Needed to buy extension for 30-50 amp hookup."
