The terrain surrounding Brandenburg, Kentucky offers diverse camping opportunities along the Ohio River and neighboring woodlands at elevations ranging from 400-700 feet. Seasonal temperature variations between 30-90°F create distinct camping conditions throughout the year, with summer humidity levels often exceeding 80%. Many campgrounds provide water-based recreation with river access points and stocked fishing ponds.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: O'Bannon Woods State Park offers varied hiking trails with multiple difficulty levels. "Several hiking trails with various difficulties...lots of caving activity in area," notes Donald S., who also mentions ranger-led tours from the nature center.
Creek swimming opportunities: Natural water features provide alternatives to traditional pools during hot summer months. "O'Bannon woods has just about everything in one little nook, from fishing swimming and kayaking on Blue River, a beach at the park," shares Justin B., highlighting the diverse water recreation options.
Family-oriented playground activities: Sycamore Springs Park offers multiple play areas throughout the grounds. "So much to do with the kids, from swimming in the creek, fishing, campfires, s'mores...Tons of playgrounds too spread throughout the campground," explains Cora P., emphasizing family-friendly amenities.
Fishing at stocked locations: Several campgrounds maintain fishing ponds within walking distance of campsites. "Plenty to explore around the area," mentions Derek J. from O'Bannon Woods, while another reviewer notes the "pond to fish in" at Sycamore Springs Park.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Horseshoe Bend RV Campground provides direct river views. "Great views of the Ohio River and an occasional barge," shares Randy S., who appreciated the well-maintained gravel sites with full hookups.
Natural swimming areas: Creek access for swimming ranks highly among camper preferences. "We stayed in the May to escape Derby in Louisville. It's close enough to the city that it makes for an easy get-away," explains Ella L. about Otter Creek Park Campground, where hiking trails offer river views.
Shaded campsites: Many campers value tree cover during hot summer months. "Mostly shaded spots. Not all pads are level or very wide," reports Shelly S. about O'Bannon Woods State Park, pointing out that site quality varies within the same campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Well-maintained restrooms receive frequent positive mentions. "Showers were the best I've seen, clean and strong pressure," notes Barry B. from Sycamore Springs Park, where sites vary in proximity to water sources.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Camp Carlson Army RV Park, "WIFI and cell service very limited would advise an antenna for long term," according to James S., who found the staff "extremely helpful and understanding."
Seasonal weather considerations: Spring brings higher rainfall that can affect water levels. "The river sites are a bit close and were evacuated during a flash flood for good reason. Water came up to their sites," warns John R. about Sycamore Springs Park during heavy rain periods.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. Derek P. notes that Horine Reservation at Jefferson Memorial Forest sits "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."
Reservation requirements: Availability varies by season and location. "The park assigned campers to where they were distanced from each other due to COVID," mentions Barry B. about Sycamore Springs Park, indicating site assignment policies may change.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience with young children. At Buzzard Roost Campground, "The site has 5 camp sites that are pull off spurs with a decent parking space...Each site has a fire ring and a picnic table," according to Joe F., though he notes "the sites are close and there isn't much for privacy between most of the sites."
Group site availability: Larger family gatherings benefit from dedicated group areas. "The group site are fairly large and have running water and compost latrines. Parking is not on site but only a short walk," explains Chris R. from Jefferson Memorial Forest.
Tick prevention: Prepare for tick exposure during warmer months. Kyle from O'Bannon Woods warns, "Tick were REALLY bad. Maybe the season, maybe the area, not sure," suggesting proper clothing and repellent are essential.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds host special events for families. "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," shares Amber S. about Otter Creek Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "The sites were close to each other but provided plenty of space for the average sized rig. Many were longer than other KOAs, which enabled the tow vehicle and TT to be parked," notes Craig F. about Louisville South KOA.
Generator policies: Check campground rules regarding generator use. "The campground was really nice and relatively quiet. The staff was fairly nice, and even helped us out with a bit of a Karen camper," shares Derek J. about O'Bannon Woods, where most sites have electrical hookups.
Water hookup variations: Not all electric sites include water connections. Derek J. discovered at O'Bannon Woods that "There was no water at the site though. Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank."
Length restrictions: Verify your RV length against site specifications. "There are a lot of campsites for RV's and some for equine camping also," reports Corey T. about O'Bannon Woods, though notes primitive sites are limited.
