Surrounded by the rolling hills of Northern Kentucky, RV camping near Melbourne offers direct access to both the Ohio River and multiple state parks within a 30-mile radius. The area features several campgrounds with varying degrees of shade protection, important during summer months when temperatures regularly climb above 85°F. Most sites in this region sit on terrain that requires some leveling equipment due to the naturally hilly landscape.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: At A.J. Jolly Park & Campground, the 175-acre lake provides year-round fishing access. "Site 22 had a beautiful view of the Ohio river. The kids enjoyed seeing the barges going up and down the river," notes camper Lindsey S. The park also features a golf course within walking distance of most campsites.
Water activities: Winton Woods Campground offers multiple water-based recreation options. "There is a pool access, a tree for shade at every lot, a picnic table at every lot and water access as well... you're close to the river as well," reports one visitor. The paved trail around the lake supports both walking and launching personal watercraft.
Hiking trails: Three Springs Campground maintains three wooded trails ranging from beginner to moderate difficulty. "It is on a beautiful piece of land with wooded acres all around. It has 3 beautiful hiking trails," explains a campground representative. These trails wind through the forested property and connect to a small fishing pond with a fountain.
What Campers Like
Level concrete pads: Follow The River RV Resort earns high marks for its solid foundations. "Level concrete pad with nice views up the river. Staff were very helpful when we had issues with our truck and moved our truck camper with us," shares Joel L. Another camper adds, "Each plot also has its own concrete slab for your RV, so you don't have to worry about parking in the mud."
Clean facilities: At Three Springs Campground, multiple reviewers mention cleanliness. "Bathrooms were well maintained and clean. Lots of stars at night!" reports Sam O. Another camper adds, "Quiet lil place clean showers and bathrooms extremely friendly staff who will go out of their way to help you set up."
Family-friendly amenities: Northern Kentucky RV Park recently added recreational facilities. "We stayed one night on our way to pigeon forge, tn. It was neat and orderly... They also have a nice playground," notes Joe F. The park offers 80 sites with full hookups operating seasonally from March through November.
What You Should Know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railroad disturbances. At Northern Kentucky RV Park, one camper reports: "We spent one of three nights booked here and left. The freeway traffic is very loud 24 hours and the train comes at least 2 times per night (2am and 5am Sunday night anyway) blowing its horn."
Reservation timing: Thousand Trails Wilmington fills quickly during peak season. "This is a very quiet campground with spacious sites on Loop C. The pool is large and heated," notes Susan B. Weekend availability becomes especially limited from May through September.
Site layout challenges: Some campgrounds have awkward utility placements. At A.J. Jolly Park, a camper shares: "Pad are about 12x12 concrete so that's a plus but the location of the pads if you want to use your RV awning means your wheels in what ever your using are going to be nearly off the level area or in the grass."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Tucker's Landing has limited child-specific amenities. "There wasn't any playgrounds for the kids but they still had fun," shares Lindsey S. Another family suggests, "Would love to see some more amenities in the future! Maybe a playground?!? Not much to do for the kiddos."
Water activities: Indian Lakes offers multiple swimming options. "There are several fishing ponds and a lake with a beach area. There are 2 pools, and a golf course," notes Debbie S. Their family-focused amenities include volleyball courts and a maintained dog park.
Educational stops: The Ark Encounter stands just 10 miles from Three Springs Campground. "This is the closest RV Park Campground to the Ark Encounter-only 10 miles south. It has a small fishing pond with a beautiful fountain that provides a neat camping experience," explains a representative. The Creation Museum is also within driving distance.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: A.J. Jolly Park & Campground requires careful planning for larger units. "We moved around several times as they accommodated us month to month. We stayed on sites 78, 64, and 33. 33 was definitely our favorite with an awesome view of the river," suggests Claire M. RVs over 30 feet should request specific sites with adequate turning radius.
Utility placement: RVers report some hookup challenges in the region. At Three Springs Campground, one visitor noted, "Sites are pretty level, although we did have to unhook to keep truck from sticking out into road." Many parks require extension cords as electrical connections may be on the opposite side from water hookups.
Weather considerations: Summer heat impacts comfort significantly. At Follow The River RV Resort, a visitor recommends, "It is hot in June, so bring a canopy if your RV doesn't have one." Sites with mature trees provide essential shade during peak summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
