The Ark Encounter is a major draw for tourists and families, and if you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to make sure you have a great place to stay.
Choosing the right campground can make or break your experience. A comfortable and convenient campground can enhance your visit, allowing you to relax and recharge after a long day of exploring the Ark Encounter.
This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the campgrounds near the Ark Encounter. We’ll help you find the best campground for your needs and preferences, so you can have an unforgettable trip.
What to consider when choosing a campground
When you’re making plans to visit the Ark Encounter, here are some factors to keep in mind when you’re choosing where to camp.
How close is it to the Ark and other attractions?
Many campgrounds are within a 15- to 25-minute drive of the Ark Encounter. You may also want to consider how close the campground is to other attractions like the Creation Museum or the city of Cincinnati.
What amenities and services are offered?
If you’re traveling in an RV, you’ll probably want a site with full hookups. It’s also important to make sure the campground has restrooms and showers. Some campgrounds offer extras such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and wi-fi.
What kind of campground is it? What’s the atmosphere like?
There are RV parks, state parks, and campgrounds with cabins. Three Springs RV Park, for example, offers RV spots, tent sites, and cabins. You’ll also want to consider the general vibe of the campground. Is it family friendly? Quiet and secluded? A party spot?
Top Campground Recommendations Near the Ark Encounter
If you’re planning a visit to the Ark Encounter and looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay, here are a few highly-rated campgrounds within a reasonable driving distance.
Whispering Hills RV Park
Whispering Hills RV Park consistently earns high marks from visitors. With around 1,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, it’s a popular choice. It’s also conveniently located just 25 minutes away from the Ark Encounter. Be sure to check their website for details on amenities.
Kentucky Horse Park
For those interested in equestrian activities, the Kentucky Horse Park is a fantastic option. This park focuses on all things horses, and they also offer RV camping. It’s a bit further out, but with approximately 1,500 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it’s clear that visitors enjoy the experience.
Northern Kentucky RV Park
Northern Kentucky RV Park is another option, particularly if you’re interested in exploring attractions in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Keep in mind that this park has fewer reviews (around 170), so it might be a good idea to do a bit more research before booking.
Winton Woods Campground (Ohio)
Located in Ohio, Winton Woods Campground offers proximity to Cincinnati attractions. It boasts a solid 4.6-star rating based on approximately 700 reviews, making it a reliable choice if you’re willing to venture across state lines.
Elkhorn Creek Campground
If you’re hoping to explore the Bourbon Trail and other attractions in central Kentucky, Elkhorn Creek Campground could be a good fit. It also has a 4.6-star rating, based on around 600 reviews.
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site (Bonus Pick)
For a unique camping experience, consider Big Bone Lick State Historic Site. This location offers historical significance and unique features that set it apart from other campgrounds. The park is highly-rated, with approximately 2,700 reviews and a 4.6-star average.
Exploring local attractions beyond the Ark Encounter
Northern Kentucky and the surrounding area offer a wealth of attractions, from museums to outdoor activities.
Museums and historical sites
- Kentucky Music Hall of Fame and Museum. View artifacts from many different genres of music.
- Bittersweet Cabin Museum. See artifacts from the 1700s.
- Colonel Harland Sanders Café and Museum. Learn about the history of Kentucky Fried Chicken at the site of the original restaurant.
- Shaker Village. Explore a National Historic Landmark with 34 original buildings.
- Camp Wildcat Civil War Battlefield. Visit this historical site that was once a Civil War battleground.
Parks and outdoor activities
- Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. Hike, view the 125-foot-wide and 60-foot-high Cumberland Falls waterfall, and maybe even catch the famous Moonbow phenomenon.
- Lake Cumberland State Resort Park. Go fishing or boating on the 50,250-acre lake.
- Big South Fork National Park. Take a train ride and learn about the history of the area.
- Rockcastle River Canoe Livery. Canoe the Rockcastle River in the Daniel Boone National Forest.
- Anglin Falls. Hike to see the scenic Anglin Falls.
Other unique attractions
- Kentucky Horse Park. View horses, a museum, and art exhibits on this 1,032-acre site.
- Kentucky Artisan Center. Shop for Kentucky crafts and foods.
- The Great American Dollhouse Museum. See a collection of miniature buildings.
- Churchill Downs. Visit the legendary home of the Kentucky Derby.
Tips for Planning Your Camping Trip
Planning is key to a successful camping trip, especially if you’re hoping to visit the Ark Encounter. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Book in advance: Campsites, especially RV sites with hookups, fill up fast during peak season. Make your reservations early!
- Check amenities: Does the campground have the facilities you need, like showers, laundry, or a camp store? Make sure it fits your requirements.
- Consider potential drawbacks: Read reviews carefully. Is the campground near a highway? Are the RV sites close together? Think about potential noise or other downsides.
- Pack essential gear: Make a checklist of everything you need, from cooking supplies to bedding. Having the right gear makes all the difference.
- Plan your itinerary: Research other attractions in the area besides the Ark Encounter. There’s plenty to see and do in Kentucky!
Summary
The right campground can make or break your visit to the Ark Encounter, so take your time and do your research before you book.
When you’re deciding where to stay, be sure to consider how close the campground is to the Ark, what amenities are available, and whether you’d prefer a rustic or resort-style experience. Many of the campgrounds near the Ark Encounter book quickly, especially during the peak summer months.
If you plan ahead, you can find the perfect place to stay and make some lasting memories as you explore the wonders of the Ark Encounter and other nearby attractions.