Camping sites near Elizabethtown, Kentucky offer a mix of public and private options within easy reach of both natural attractions and historic sites. The region sits at approximately 700 feet elevation in Kentucky's knob country, characterized by small isolated hills rising from flatter terrain. Seasonal temperature swings are significant, with summer highs regularly reaching the upper 80s and winter lows dipping below freezing.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Mammoth Cave National Park contains the world's longest known cave system with over 400 miles of surveyed passageways. "We had reservations for a cave tour dec22... Thanks to the park ranger who didn't make us leave and told us to enjoy our visit!" notes Jadon B. from Mammoth Cave Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Local lakes and ponds provide excellent fishing options. J T. from Cecilia Campgrounds shares, "I've caught largemouth bass over 5 lb from the pond and all kinds of panfish."
Bourbon distillery tours: The region sits on the edge of Kentucky's bourbon country with multiple distilleries within driving distance. According to Justin W. at White Acres Campground, "Being minutes away from all the Bardstown brewery's this is a MUST SEE PLACE!"
Trail running and hiking: The varied terrain offers trails for different skill levels. One camper at Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground described their experience: "My favorite trail run is from the main picnic area to the ferry, with several connectors. Just technical enough to keep you on your toes, definitely not a mountain but the hills and valleys give you good work out."
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Many campers appreciate seeing animals around their sites. Gloria J. from Mammoth Cave Campground mentions, "Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!"
Evening atmosphere: Natural light shows are a highlight for many visitors. Veronica S. notes, "Fireflies are great at night. Frogs are singing in the evening. Tons of trees and shade."
Quiet country settings: Many campgrounds offer peaceful environments despite being close to attractions. Richard Y. from Longview RV Park found it to be a "Nice RV resort off of I65 in Elizabeth Town KY. Stayed a week and it was a quiet park and the staff was helpful and friendly."
Access to trails: Campers value the ability to hike directly from their sites. At Jefferson Memorial Forest Campground, Mike G. appreciates "miles of walking trails ranging from easy to difficult."
What you should know
Airport noise: Some campgrounds experience aircraft disturbances. Derek P. warns about Jefferson Memorial Forest: "Unfortunately it's in the departure path of Louisville's airport, so be prepared for once-a-minute takeoffs if the airport is using its southbound runways for departures. UPS releases about 100 planes from around 3-5am."
Limited cell service: Reception can be spotty at certain locations. James S. notes about Camp Carlson Army RV Park: "WIFI and cell service very limited would advise a antenna for long term."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds need advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. Erin H. advises about Mammoth Cave: "You've got to make a reservation for tours - be warned, they fill up quickly. I recommend making a reservation at least a week before in the busy season (March-Sept)."
Site conditions: Quality and privacy vary widely between locations. Chase G. shares about My Old Kentucky Home State Park: "Some sites have views of the golf course. Very friendly staff that works hard to maintain the grounds. Campground is right in the middle of town, but you will still have to drive anywhere you want to go."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly events: Some campgrounds host special activities for children. Amber S. from Otter Creek Park Campground shares, "We go every fall with our entire family to enjoy the Halloween activities. The campers all go all out and let the kids trick or treat. There is even a group who does a haunted house and it is so fun!"
Educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences beyond just outdoor recreation. One visitor to Mammoth Cave mentions, "Our normally restless kids were so taken by the 2 hr cave tour that they remained in near total silence and awe as we tunneled through this slow moving guided cave walk."
Consider site spacing: Family groups should select campgrounds with adequate space. Veronica S. notes about the community atmosphere at Mammoth Cave: "People here were kind and trustworthy. People were charging their power stations unattended in the bathrooms. We were given extra wood by our neighbors."
Check campground store hours: Plan for supply needs according to operating times. "Only downside is maybe the camp store closes really early. I think maybe 5? By the time we got there our first day it was closed, so my son was bummed we couldn't have a fire," a Mammoth Cave camper warns.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. Shelagh R. observed at Mammoth Cave: "Cute little campground with lots of tree cover, not too noisy despite the close proximity of neighbors."
Hookup availability: Services vary widely between locations. Earl B. at White Acres Campground shared: "Well I really have nothing bad to say, it's a country setting on the outskirts of Bardstown, KY. It's just a few miles away from the scenic parts of town."
Leveling requirements: Some sites require significant adjustment. Chase G. notes, "Some sites were not level and some sites were very short so make sure you review the site description."
Seasonal considerations: Site conditions change throughout the year. Rick G. shared about White Acres Campground: "Stayed with an Airstream Caravan group. Assigned a site in the new open area with no trees. Utilities all worked, but this is a no fringe experience."
