Parksville offers diverse camping experiences within Kentucky's Bluegrass Region. Located near Lake Cumberland and Green River Lake, the area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,100 feet with mild springs, warm summers, and colorful fall foliage. Water recreation dominates camping options with several lakes offering both developed campgrounds and rustic tent spots.
What to do
Hiking trails: Green River Lake State Park features walking paths for all skill levels, with opportunities to spot local wildlife. A visitor noted, "We loved the walking trails along the river! We had kids that fished and played in the playground and sat by the fire every night!" at Cummins Ferry RV Park.
Fishing access: Multiple lakes provide year-round fishing opportunities. At Green River Lake State Park Campground, campers can fish directly from shore. One camper mentioned, "The lake is really pretty, the showers were pretty decent. Other campers were well behaved and it was fairly peaceful."
Boating options: Boat ramps available at most waterfront campgrounds allow easy water access. A visitor at Camp Nelson RV Park shared, "It is right on the KY River. It is down in a hollow which makes it secluded and quiet. There is a dock and a boat ramp."
Mountain biking: Pulaski County Park offers dedicated mountain biking trails designed for various skill levels. A reviewer stated, "The trails twist and turn and cross creeks and hill tops. They are all mountain bike oriented and a few are challenging."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront campsites: Many campgrounds feature sites with direct water views. At Smith Ridge Green River Lake, a camper reported, "We stayed in the new section just past the entrance on the right! It's a one way loop through the woods that brings you back out on main campground road. The campground sets on a point with woods all the way around."
Clean facilities: Multiple parks maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. At Pulaski County Park, improvements continue: "They have made several improvements since then and it is a lot better. The campground is spread across the hills and 'bays' of the park."
Weekend entertainment: Some campgrounds offer organized activities. A visitor to Cummins Ferry RV Park mentioned, "Live music and food trucks every Saturday are a nice touch!"
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly between locations. A Smith Ridge Green River Lake camper noted, "Practically no cell service with Verizon or AT&T." Plan accordingly for communication needs.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require preparation for unlevel terrain. At Holmes Bend, a visitor advised, "Some spaces and turns would be tight for larger rigs. Decent weekend trip for us despite the issues."
Limited yurt camping options: Traditional yurt camping near Parksville, Kentucky remains limited. However, Green River Lake State Park offers alternatives through cabin accommodations. A camper shared, "They have RV sites, tent sites, and shelter houses. There are several cabins on site."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds close during winter months. Holmes Bend operates "April 18 to October 26," while Green River Lake State Park Campground remains open "April 1 to December 31."
Power supply issues: Electrical reliability varies between locations. One Smith Ridge visitor reported, "They have a known power issue, 30amp service went out several times at the pole. Their solution was to use less appliances."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. At Waitsboro Campground, "There's a short nature trail and a playground, plus the whole area has a lot to do."
Swimming spots: Beach areas available at select locations provide safer water access for children. A visitor to Pulaski County Park mentioned, "There's a very large walking trail, and archery area. There's many places for kids to play, a basketball court, volleyball court, disk golf, and a small beach area."
Spacious group sites: Some campgrounds accommodate family reunions with larger shared spaces. A camper at General Burnside State Park observed, "Seemed also to attract a lot of family reunions."
Noise considerations: Check for nearby attractions that might disrupt sleep. One visitor warned, "There's a racetrack across the highway (Lake Cumberland Raceway) and it is LOUD. The race continued from 6pm-1am."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Research specific site numbers before booking. At General Burnside State Park Campground, a camper advised, "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."
Full hookup availability: Many parks offer complete utility connections. At Holmes Bend, a visitor noted, "Some are primitive sites but most have water. Bathroom, shower house and playground are available."
Dump station access: Position of facilities varies between parks. At Camp Nelson RV Park, "Full hook-ups for $395/mo if you are staying monthly."
Big rig accommodation: Several parks can handle larger vehicles with adequate preparation. A Waitsboro Campground visitor shared, "This campground is built between a steep hillside and the Cumberland River. Most sites don't offer much privacy, but the views of the river are so nice."
