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Best Campgrounds near Owensboro, KY

294 Reviews

Camping options around Owensboro, Kentucky include established campgrounds with varying levels of amenities and services. Diamond Lake Resort Campground provides year-round access for tent camping, RVs, and cabins with full hookups. Windy Hollow Camp and Recreation Area, located approximately 5 miles south of Owensboro, operates seasonally from April through October with basic facilities for tent and RV campers. Several facilities in the region feature water recreation opportunities at nearby lakes and rivers, creating popular destinations during warmer months.

Road conditions throughout the area generally accommodate standard vehicles, with many campgrounds accessible via paved roads. Weather patterns make summer and early fall the most popular camping seasons, though some locations like Diamond Lake Resort remain open year-round. Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend stays between Memorial Day and Labor Day when occupancy rates increase significantly. Electric hookups are common at established campgrounds, with many offering 50-amp service for larger RVs. Cell service varies by location but tends to be reliable near larger campgrounds closer to Owensboro. As one camper noted about Scales Lake Park, "This is a small campground. Campsites are tight but all centered around a decent sized bath house. There is a lot to do at this park, playgrounds, bike and walking trails and a good sized lake with a beach, all within walking distance."

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the region, with multiple sites offering fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. Scales Lake Park features both standard RV sites and more secluded primitive camping options with direct lake access. Camp Safe Haven by Earthbound Lodging provides a more private experience with cabin accommodations. Facilities vary considerably between locations, with some offering showers, flush toilets, and sanitary dump stations while others provide more basic amenities. Campers traveling with pets will find most areas pet-friendly, though specific restrictions may apply at beach areas. A visitor to the area explained, "The primitive site number 109, though the ground was a little rocky, the lake views were spectacular. Water slide was a blast and loved the petting zoo, also the volleyball court was a fun addition too."

Map showing campgrounds near Owensboro, KentuckyExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Owensboro, Kentucky (63)

    1. Diamond Lake Resort Campground

    8 Reviews
    Mount Vernon, KY
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 229-4900

    $34 - $38 / night

    "This is a resort not a get away from it all camping. It is well maintained, friendly staff, lots to do for kids. Sites are close, as in any resort style campground."

    "It was also nice to ride the golf cart around the park to get around. We brought ours but you can also rent. The swimming pool stays pretty full but is nice."

    2. Scales Lake Park

    17 Reviews
    Boonville, IN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 897-6200

    $17 - $140 / night

    "Campsites are tight but all centered around a decent sized bath house."

    "Scales Lake Park is right outside Boonville, In on South Parklane Dr.

    I drove through the RV park, it was okay."

    3. Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph

    33 Reviews
    Santa Claus, IN
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4458

    $45 - $101 / night

    "This is a fun family Campground located adjacent to holiday world and Splashin Safari. There are golf carts for rent, nice camp stores, pools, playground, putt putt golf course, arcade and more."

    "Great anemities and close proximity to attractions. Visit during the Halloween season for tons of family fun."

    4. Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park

    22 Reviews
    Lincoln City, IN
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 937-4710

    $20 - $100 / night

    "The RV/camping area was well laid out and the sites were nestled in quite close to one another."

    "My kids love Lincoln especially around Halloween when they do their trick or treating. Great bathrooms, great sites, lots of walking trails, close to Holiday World, so much to do with kids."

    5. Windy Hollow Camp and Recreation

    3 Reviews
    Mount Vernon, KY
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 785-4150

    "Tucked in and away a beautiful holler, this is what modern day camping is at its finest. The staff are amazing, and friendly."

    6. Camp Safe Haven by Earthbound Lodging

    1 Review
    Mount Vernon, KY
    10 miles
    Website

    7. Oakridge Campground

    1 Review
    Chrisney, IN
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 686-0018

    $35 / night

    8. Vastwood Co Park

    4 Reviews
    Hawesville, KY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 927-8778

    $8 - $20 / night

    "Beautiful lakeside campsites. Great for small groups or individuals."

    "Park features playground, paved biking and walking trails, disc golf, plenty of shade, lake with boat dock (non-motorized boats only), bath house, and dump station."

    9. Livermore RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Mount Vernon, KY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 278-2854

    "These sites are right off the green river, there is a boat ramp adjacent. Good people all around , and the monthly is amazingly low. You can opt to pay for 50 or 30 amp service."

    10. Warrick County Park Scales Lake Park

    3 Reviews
    Boonville, IN
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (812) 897-6200

    "The trails were interesting but vacant of trail markers and some plaques were vandalized from years before. Firewood is $8 a bundle and parking is $3 a day."

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Recent Camping Photos near Owensboro, KY

65 Photos of 63 Owensboro Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Owensboro, KY

294 Reviews of 63 Owensboro Campgrounds

  • Fred R.
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Lake Lincoln Campground — Lincoln State Park

    Cross country trip

    First stop and a Natl park. This place was crazy packed due to concert and drone show. We missed both. It was tight to get into but made it work. Shade trees are plenty with hiking trails all around.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2025

    Hoosier National Forest

    Good spot out of the way and close to the Ohio River

    Big spot for almost any type of camper. Deep woods

  • Shirlee A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    Rocky Falls Campground & RV Park

    Not recommended

    Close to the road and behind a dollar store We came because we thought we can swim but you cannot.

    Everything is old and broken down including the park and toys. And super expensive price for what you are getting.

    Not such good vibes from the people living there. Don’t think it’s suitable for families

  • S
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Tipsaw Lake

    Great weekend

    This is our second stay at tipsaw. Jackpine 15. We love this campground and sites. Clean, quiet, friendly host. Definitely a repeat place we will go.

  • Richy R.
    Apr. 2, 2025

    Lake Mauzy East

    Harris-Dickerson WMA (Free) – A Hidden Gem on the Lake!

    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. Despite its remote feel, Walmart is just a 12-minute drive away for any last-minute supplies. We would have loved to stay longer, but incoming storms cut our trip short. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway! No electricity or showers!

  • Hopewell RV Park
    Jan. 23, 2025

    Hopewell RV Park

    Great little campground

    Great for quick, hassle free stop while traveling. Just 5 miles south of Western Kentucky Parkway on US highway 431. Also has several seasonal workers from Paradise Power Plant staying here during an outage. School bus picks kids op at the stop sign. Really nice family hosts. Full hookups at each site and new picnic tables. Beautiful country and Dollar General just down the road.

  • licia S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 18, 2024

    Buzzard Roost Campground — Hoosier National Forest

    Buried Deep in the Forest- Nice View

    I’m grateful I got a spot, since there are only 5. I’m also grateful that’s it’s open (since past Nov 15th)- and that they are drive-in sites. It’s buried deep in the forest. Clean bathroom aka pit toilet, was literally just washed and stocked before I arrived. One bar with AT&T, was able to get online when the neighbors left (but not while they were home)- so a booster or better would be advised. Mine is unboosted. The neighbor running the loud generator (the noise in the video) did come over and ask if it was disturbing me, lol- which was nice. Of course I said no :) since I brought a fan that was able to drown out most of the noise. Overall, if I were staying for the 14 allowed days- I’d say it’s worth the trip in. The road in IS paved and well-maintained up until a tiny portion at the end. Grateful for a spot, though.

Guide to Owensboro

Camping near Owensboro, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are great options to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Nolin Lake State Park Campground, have trails that lead to stunning views. One visitor mentioned, "We loved that hiking in Mammoth Cave National Park was only 15 min away!"
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Patoka Lake Campground is a great spot. A camper shared, "The boat ramp is within the campsite. Fish cleaning stations are right off the parking lot for the boat ramp, so very convenient."
  • Playgrounds and Family Activities: Campgrounds like Harmonie State Park Campground have playgrounds and picnic areas. One reviewer noted, "In addition to the campground with at least 2 playgrounds, there are trails, picnic areas, and a boat ramp."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Indian-Celina Recreation Area said, "The restrooms were spotless and modern, and the shower stalls were spacious and private."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Scales Lake Park remarked, "Everyone I encountered, even park staff, was very friendly."
  • Beautiful Scenery: Campers love the views and natural beauty. A reviewer at Moutardier said, "Camped in D Section right on the point with water on 3 sides of me. Very clean with the cleanest bathrooms and showers I have ever encountered."

What you should know

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Lake Lincoln Campground mentioned, "The sites are very close together, so when the campsites are full, you don't feel like you have much privacy."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have stores on-site. One visitor at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park noted, "There is no market, but you're just a short drive away from local stores."
  • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A camper at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph advised, "Make sure to check the weather before your trip, as it can change quickly."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for campgrounds that have playgrounds and family-friendly activities. One camper at Sycamore Springs Park said, "There are at least 11 playgrounds for kids and a small 'town' complete with playhouses."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. A visitor at Patoka Lake Campground mentioned, "The camp store was well stocked with an assortment of items from milk and bread to cake mix."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Make sure to schedule downtime for younger campers. A parent at Harmonie State Park Campground noted, "The park was quiet, which was great for our little ones."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: Some sites may not be level, so check before booking. A camper at Indian-Celina Recreation Area advised, "Ensure you have a 25+ ft water hose for some sites."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A visitor at Lake Lincoln Campground said, "The campground has a camp store, but it’s good to have your own supplies."
  • Use Online Resources: Many RVers recommend checking reviews online. One camper at Moutardier mentioned, "I always check reviews before booking to find the best spots."

Camping around Owensboro, KY, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best family-friendly campgrounds for kids in Owensboro?

Scales Lake Park near Boonville is excellent for families, featuring playgrounds, bike and walking trails, and a good-sized lake with a beach—all within walking distance of the campground. The campsites are centered around a decent bath house. Another great option is Burdette Park on the outskirts of Evansville, which offers many weekend activities and nearby attractions. The park has primitive tent sites and RV sites with electric and water (some with sewer). Both locations provide plenty of recreational opportunities to keep children entertained throughout your stay.

Are there electric camping sites available in Owensboro?

Yes, there are electric camping sites available near Owensboro. Hopewell RV Park offers full hookups at each site and is conveniently located just 5 miles south of Western Kentucky Parkway on US highway 431. For those willing to venture a bit further, Tipsaw Lake in southern Indiana offers water and electric (50A) hookups on hard-packed sites. The campground is located in beautiful rolling hills not far from I-64. Most RV parks and established campgrounds in the area provide electric options, though availability may vary seasonally.

What campgrounds are available in Owensboro, KY?

Several campgrounds are available in and around Owensboro. Diamond Lake Resort Campground offers reservable sites with water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. For those seeking a quieter experience, Cave Creek - Rough River Lake provides a scenic setting, though the access road is narrow and winding. Within driving distance, you'll also find several quality options in nearby Indiana, including Scales Lake Park and Burdette Park. Most campgrounds in the area offer a mix of tent and RV sites with varying levels of amenities, from primitive camping to full hookups.

Is Diamond Lake Resort a good place to camp in Owensboro, Kentucky?

Diamond Lake Resort Campground is considered a good camping option near Owensboro. The resort offers water, toilet facilities, and is accommodating to big rigs. Sites are reservable, which is helpful during peak seasons. For those seeking alternatives with similar amenities, Lincoln State Park is within driving distance and offers well-laid out RV/camping areas, though sites are nestled quite close to one another. The park is conveniently located near attractions like Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana, making it a good base for exploring the region.

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