Nolin River Lake camping options near Sweeden, Kentucky accommodate recreational vehicles, tents, and cabins. The area offers elevation changes of 143-760 feet with summer temperatures averaging 86-90°F from June through September. Sites surrounding Nolin River Lake typically remain open from early May to mid-September with fall colors peaking in mid-October when temperatures cool to 65-72°F.
What to do
Fishing at Dog Creek Campground: Waterfront sites provide direct lake access for anglers. "Absolutely loved tent camping here! Several modern bath houses with showers, toilets and sinks. Tent sites are spacious enough for multiple tents/canopys to be set up. Waterfront and has stairs to walk down to the water," notes one reviewer about Dog Creek Campground.
Hiking near Moutardier: A two-mile trail offers woodland exploration within the campground boundaries. "There is also a two mile hike that is in the campground called Shady Creek Trail. It looked like it had not been hiked in a while but it went through woods, small stream and had a cool rock formation at one part that you would swear is a haven for snakes," explains a visitor to Moutardier Campground.
Water activities on Nolin Lake: The area supports kayaking, fishing and swimming from designated beaches. "We kayaked around the lake which was very enjoyable - saw ducks, and birds such as a grey heron. Also lots of fish jumping. There are power boats allowed in the lake. Many people were fishing from their boats, kayaks, or from the shore."
What campers like
Halloween festivities: Family-oriented holiday events occur at several locations with organized activities. "Family friendly Halloween fun. Has a decorating contest with trick or treat in the campground. Safe and clean with lots of restrooms and lake front sites," writes a camper about Wax - Nolin River Lake.
Bank fishing access: Multiple campgrounds offer shoreline fishing opportunities without requiring a boat. "Love this campground. Have not found a bad spot yet. Family and pet friendly," reports one angler who enjoys bank fishing at the lake.
Modern bathhouses: Clean facilities with consistent hot water receive positive feedback. "Bathrooms were very clean and well lit. The showers were 'dated' - water stains but clean. Great water pressure and hot water."
What you should know
Cell service varies by carrier: Connectivity differs significantly throughout the area. "ATT & Verizon were both very good," mentions one camper at Moutardier, though coverage may be spotty in more remote areas.
Terrain challenges for larger RVs: Some campgrounds have difficult entry roads or steep sites. "The road in/out is very narrow, very tight and not easily navigated with a 40' 5th wheel. Also, be very careful about sites, many are extremely undeveloped and while we booked a 70' pull thru, it was actually down on the side of the hill with an almost 90° curve," cautions a visitor to Wax Campground.
Train noise at certain locations: Railroad tracks run near some campgrounds, creating periodic noise. "Do not camp close to the railroad tracks. Loud horns in the middle of the night," warns one reviewer about Cave Country RV Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreational facilities. "Kid friendly park, no mature trees in new section but concrete pad with grill and fire pit. Pool with splash pad, pools, pillow pads, multiple playgrounds, dog parks and kennels are available," notes a visitor to Jellystone Park at Mamoth Cave.
Fishing opportunities for children: Stocked ponds provide catch-and-release opportunities with minimal equipment needed. "The little catch-and-release pond is well-stocked and there is a catfish pay lake across the street, so our boys had plenty of fishing to keep them busy," shares a family who stayed at Singing Hills RV Park And Campground.
Multiple playgrounds: Families appreciate maintained play areas distributed throughout some campgrounds. "Great for tents or trailers and everything in between. 3 playgrounds with safe clean equipment. Plant of lake view sites and positioned to provide a semi private experience."
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Finding flat spaces can be challenging at certain campgrounds. "Very nice place. Mark Smith was very helpful. No signal at all on my phone or my husband phone but it was okay. Over all had a great time," mentions an RVer at Dog Creek Campground.
Site utilities require planning: Water and electric arrangements vary by location. "Sites in row B are 30 amp hookups. Some sites has short concrete pads in between gravel while others are just gravel. I would not recommend the concrete pads as most of them are too short for most rigs," explains a guest at Thousand Trails Diamond Caverns RV & Golf Resort.
On-site repair availability: Some rv sites near Sweeden, Kentucky offer maintenance services. "The owner also runs an RV repair so you can get on-site repairs. Very useful," notes one long-term camper, providing peace of mind for travelers experiencing mechanical issues.
