The Kentucky River valley defines camping spots near Nicholasville, Kentucky with significant elevation changes between campsites and water access. Most locations sit at 500-700 feet elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F during peak camping months. River-based campgrounds typically require navigation of winding roads with 8-12% grades leading to waterfront areas.
What to Do
Horseback riding opportunities: The Kentucky Horse Park Campground offers extensive trails just 20 minutes north of Nicholasville. "Taking the horses out here was a wonderful experience, it was great having so many different trails to go on in order to not only train the new horses how to trail ride, but also take the more experienced horses on tougher trails," notes one equestrian camper.
Living history explorations: Visit reconstructed settlements at Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground to learn about Kentucky's pioneer history. Located 30 minutes east, the park maintains active interpretive programs. A visitor mentioned, "We go there a lot with friends and family. A lot of sightseeing."
River fishing access: The area's campgrounds provide various fishing opportunities on the Kentucky River. Many sites offer dedicated fishing areas with docks and riverside access. At Elkhorn Campground, roughly 30 miles northwest of Nicholasville, anglers appreciate the fishing conditions. One camper simply stated, "From the kayaking, to the fishing, great place!"
What Campers Like
Riverfront locations: Campers consistently praise the waterfront settings at Cummins Ferry RV Park, located about 15 miles west of Nicholasville. The combination of water views and natural surroundings creates a peaceful atmosphere. "The river and waterfall makes it feel like a tranquil place. The walking trail by the river is nice, we walked it almost every day," writes one reviewer.
On-site recreational facilities: Swimming pools and organized activities enhance the camping experience at many locations. The facilities at Whispering Hills RV Park receive particular praise. "Swimming pool with small water slide, fishing pond, jumping pillow, events at picnic shelter. Campground is very busy. Lots of people coming and going," reports a visitor.
Clean bathing facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bath houses, a significant factor for many campers. At Fort Boonesborough State Park, the amenities receive special attention. One reviewer appreciated the "AC in very clean bath house was a big plus. We were close to the river in a reasonably secluded spot."
What You Should Know
Campsite spacing varies dramatically: Site proximity differs significantly between campgrounds. While some offer spacious settings, others place units much closer together. A visitor to Fort Boonesborough noted, "I did feel a little closer to my neighbor than I would have liked. I can only imagine the feeling to an RV camper would be even more suffocating."
Seasonal traffic patterns: Summer weekends create significantly higher occupancy levels, especially at waterfront locations. Weekday visits often provide a quieter experience. One camper at Fort Boonesborough advised, "If I did return it would be during the week and potentially not during summer to avoid the crowd."
Road challenges: Access to riverside campgrounds requires careful driving, particularly for larger vehicles. The terrain creates navigation difficulties that campers should prepare for. A Camp Nelson RV Park visitor shared, "A bit tight for larger rigs (ours is a 40' DP). The campground has a very nice pool and is very quiet."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground availability: Many campgrounds maintain play areas for children of various ages. At Elkhorn Campground, "There is a great deal of things to do with the kids (water wars and different events for them to participate in)," according to one parent.
Scheduled activities: Family-oriented events occur regularly at several locations, particularly during summer months. Fort Boonesborough offers numerous options: "This is a very nice park. There were lots of activities going on the weekend we were there. Playground was really good."
Animal experiences: Wildcat Creek Farm provides unique opportunities for children to interact with farm animals. "The resident goats, mules, donkeys and horses are very friendly - just like the hosts!" reports one visitor. This smaller campground offers a different experience from larger facilities.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Many sites throughout the region require significant leveling equipment due to terrain. At Whispering Hills RV Park, "The sites are gravel and most are not level, but not too bad. There is all manner of leveling going on!"
Water pressure variations: Several campgrounds report unusually high water pressure that requires regulation. A camper warned, "The water pressure was quite high (70 psi) according to the worker at the campground so make sure to have a water pressure regulator."
Site selection strategy: Research specific site numbers when booking, as quality varies significantly even within the same campground. "We had the place pretty much to ourselves especially on the rainy days. Outstanding features for me were the 4 pull thrus, one of which I scored," noted an experienced RVer at Fort Boonesborough.
