Best Campgrounds near Wilmore, KY
Campgrounds near Wilmore, Kentucky range from established RV parks to primitive tent sites, with most facilities concentrated along the Kentucky River and surrounding waterways. The Kentucky Horse Park Campground, located approximately 25 miles north of Wilmore, offers over 250 full hookup sites with electric, water, and sewer connections. Cummins Ferry RV Park provides riverfront camping with boat access on the Kentucky River about 15 miles west of Wilmore. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering glamping options for those seeking more comfortable accommodations.
Access to campgrounds varies seasonally, with many facilities operating year-round while others close during winter months. Chimney Rock Campground operates from April through October, while Kentucky Horse Park and Fort Boonesborough State Park Campgrounds remain open throughout the year. A visitor commented, "Pay attention to the website directions. GPS took us on a long detour," highlighting navigation challenges in the rural areas surrounding Wilmore. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when Kentucky Horse Park Campground enforces a five-day minimum stay. Cell service can be limited at riverside locations, with one review noting that "due to the location, only Verizon and Visible cell phone users have service" at a campground along the Kentucky River.
The Kentucky River serves as a focal point for camping experiences in the region, with several campgrounds offering direct water access. Campers report enjoying activities like kayaking, fishing, and tubing at riverside locations. "Kayaking on the Kentucky River is great. Tons of activities for the kids and even adults," noted one reviewer about Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground. Sites along the river tend to be more popular but may experience seasonal flooding. Campgrounds closer to Lexington and Frankfort provide convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a rural atmosphere. Several facilities feature well-maintained bathhouses, playgrounds, and community areas, though amenity quality varies significantly between state parks and privately-owned campgrounds. Proximity to Kentucky's bourbon distilleries and horse farms makes the region particularly appealing for campers interested in exploring local attractions.