The camping areas near Owenton, Kentucky sit within the rolling hills of central Kentucky where the average elevation ranges between 800-1,000 feet above sea level. This region experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most camping facilities remain open year-round, though water hookups at some locations may be disconnected during winter months to prevent pipe damage.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: A.J. Jolly Park offers fishing access along its lakefront campsites. "The lake is nice you can rent kayaks canoes. Or use your own boat. The boat ramp is nice," notes one camper at A.J. Jolly Park & Campground.
Historic site exploration: General Butler State Resort Park features the Butler-Turpin State Historic House. "Tennis courts are down by the Butler-Turpin State Historic House. Mini-golf and a gift shop are also available," reports a visitor to General Butler State Resort Park.
Hiking varied terrain: Multiple trails wind through Charlestown State Park with varying difficulty levels. "We biked throughout the park and hiked 4 of the trails, 3 of which were pretty rugged and all had elevation changes for a good hiking challenge," shares one visitor about their experience.
What campers like
Concrete amenities: Some campgrounds feature sturdy site infrastructure. "They do have concrete pads. It's a shame they are worthless they are to small to park the average RV on," notes one candid reviewer at A.J. Jolly Park, highlighting that while the amenities exist, size considerations matter.
Wildlife viewing: At Three Springs Campground, natural encounters are common. "It's a nice place to camp out for the night in a van/RV. Sites were a bit cramped, but level. Bathrooms and showers available," says a visitor to Oak Creek Campground.
Yurt accommodations: For those seeking yurt camping near Owenton, Kentucky, A.J. Jolly Park provides unique alternatives to traditional tent camping. "The other side of the camp ground had 4 or so yurts for rental. And I believe this year may have cabins," mentions a visitor, noting these alternative camping structures are available for those interested in Owenton area yurt experiences.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Many campgrounds have varied site spacing. "Sites too close together. Clean showers and restrooms. Not much for a family to do," reports one camper at Three Springs Campground and RV Park.
Seasonal flooding risks: Some riverfront locations experience water level changes. "BIG WARNING would be that it floods tremendously because it is so close to the water! Be aware of rain and water rising!" warns a camper about Paul Ogle Riverfront Park.
Facilities maintenance: Bathroom quality varies by campground. "The bathhouse is super nice and clean. The sites I'm at are on a hillside so think theatrical style site. None are level looking so you will need to know what your doing," notes a visitor at A.J. Jolly Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "There is a pool, volleyball courts and a dog park. It is hot in June, so bring a canopy if your RV doesn't have one," advises a visitor to Follow The River RV Resort.
Swimming options: Pool facilities provide recreation during summer months. "The lodge lets campers use the pool 4-7 pm for free which is nice," mentions a camper at General Butler State Resort Park.
Budget-friendly activities: Some locations offer affordable recreation. "They have a playground for the kids and putt putt. The tent sites were shaded by nice trees and were located right next to the lake. The group tent sites looked nice and had shade and open areas," shares a visitor to Lake Shelby Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring adequate leveling equipment for uneven sites. "It would be nice if you could pull through to dump but you have to back in. The sites are close to one another but it did not bother me," advises an RV camper at Lake Shelby.
Hookup positioning: Some campgrounds have awkwardly placed utilities. "Water hook ups are on the opposite side of electrical on several sites," warns a camper at A.J. Jolly Park about the layout challenges for larger rigs.
Approach considerations: Site access varies considerably by campground. "Final approach/exit to the park is very steep. Beautiful sites but fairly close together. Gravelled roads and pads surrounded by forest with three small streams cutting through. Sites are not particularly level," notes a visitor at Charlestown State Park.
