Holmes Bend
4.36242 reviews69 Corps Rd
Holmes Bend
$20.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$32.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates range between $20-$32 nightly during the non-peak season. An additional $2.00 is applied on weekends and holidays. Fees for reservation service ($8-$9 online or via contact center) are non-refundable.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Green River Lake, Holmes Bend Campground offers 125 thoughtfully designed sites where modern comfort meets natural splendor. This Corps of Engineers gem seamlessly blends the rugged beauty of Kentucky's wilderness with essential amenities including hot showers, flush toilets, and drinking water at every turn. Families gather around crackling fire rings under starlit skies, while adventure seekers explore winding interpretive trails and children's laughter echoes from well-maintained playgrounds. Just minutes from the full-service marina, this lakeside retreat serves as your gateway to 8,000 acres of sparkling water and endless outdoor possibilities.
Holmes Bend Campground offers a variety of camping options including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the trees at Holmes Bend, where the echoes of America's past are never far away. Just 10 miles northwest, the Corps Visitor Center and the weathered logs of the Atkinson-Griffin Cabin tell tales of Civil War-era Kentucky, when this land witnessed the struggles that shaped our nation. Adventure extends beyond the campground to two of America's most treasured landmarks: the mysterious depths of Mammoth Cave National Park and the humble birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, where the future president's story began in a one-room log cabin.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Holmes Bend into a sun-drenched paradise, with warm days perfect for swimming and balmy evenings ideal for campfire stories. The camping season runs through late October, when autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant golds and crimsons. After October 25th, the campground enters its winter slumber, allowing nature to reclaim its quiet solitude. Each season brings its own magic, from spring wildflowers to summer adventures, though weather can shift with Kentucky's characteristic unpredictability.
ElevationThe campground rests gently within Kentucky's rolling Highland Rim, where the landscape rises and falls in peaceful waves of forest and meadow, creating natural privacy between campsites and stunning vantage points for sunset viewing.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to mist rising from Green River Lake as the morning sun filters through a canopy of oak, maple, and hickory trees. The Highland Rim's signature rolling meadows stretch between dense forests, creating a patchwork of ecosystems teeming with wildlife. Scenic trails wind through this diverse landscape, offering glimpses of deer at dawn, wildflower meadows in bloom, and spectacular lake vistas that change with every season. The interplay of water, forest, and meadow creates an ever-changing natural canvas that captivates photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionHolmes Bend sits proudly within Kentucky's Highland Rim, a distinctive geological province where ancient limestone foundations have created a landscape of gentle hills, fertile valleys, and pristine waterways. This unique terrain, carved over millennia, cradles the magnificent Green River Lake - 8,000 acres of deep, clear water that fills an ancient valley. The forested ridges and rolling meadows that characterize this region provide a stunning backdrop for camping adventures, while the underlying geology creates the perfect conditions for the diverse ecosystems that make this area a natural wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include accessible parking, showers, and campsites. Reviews mention specific handicap sites as available within the campground.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size and are generally spacious. "Sites are large, clean, and often shaded," highlights a review.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer varying levels of privacy, with some secluded and wooded sites while others are more open. "Spacious sites with wooded canopies," states one user. Another notes, "Sites are way too narrow," highlighting less privacy in certain areas.
Total Campsites125 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend sites with both water and electric hookups in shaded areas for ease of access and comfort.
Best CampsitesSite #105 is noted for its secluded cul-de-sac location and rain forest-like feel.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:30 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 4:30 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum limit of 14 nights for a stay at Holmes Bend Campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six people or one family unit per campsite.
Groups
Group camping sites accommodate larger gatherings, although specific guest limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized in loops with varying levels of amenities such as water and electric hookups. Some sites are noted for their narrow layout and shared water supplies.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts May 1 and ends October 25.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites appear to be available but are not explicitly detailed. Sites must be reserved before setup.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. No-shows are charged a $20 fee plus the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Holmes Bend Campground provides a variety of recreational activities suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing. "Fishing at Green River Lake is popular. Walleye, crappie, white bass, channel catfish, muskie, and bluegill are found in abundance," highlights authoritative content. "The playground is always well taken care of," states a user review.
Hiking
The campground features miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding. "Trails where hard to locate and somewhat overgrown," mentions one user, while others describe them as "beautiful and scenic."Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant at the nearby Green River Lake. Fish species include walleye, crappie, white bass, channel catfish, muskie, and bluegill. "Fishing is one of the main attractions," notes a review.Swimming
Swimming is available at a nearby beach within a mile of the campground. "The roped area in the lake is perfect for swimming," highlights a user review. However, another review notes a fishy smell at the beach during late July.Biking
Campers often ride bikes through the campground, with children frequently participating. Some users express concerns over unsupervised kids and crowded roads.Boating
The nearby Green River Lake is ideal for boating with ten boat ramps and three full-service marinas. "Quick and easy entrance to the lake," notes a review.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant in the area, including deer and other fauna. "Lots of wildlife in the area," mentions a user review.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are available at the nearby swimming beach. "The beach was nice," but another review mentions a fishy smell during late summer.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are provided, including interpretive trails. "Jamie and Richard are the best at being most helpful," a user notes about the welcoming staff involved in programs.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and jet skiing are popular at Green River Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings and grills. Responsible supervision is required.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as deer and turkey are prevalent; however, no specific safety concerns are identified.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are located in Columbia, KY, approximately 10 miles northwest of the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - October 25.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are only available at the campground exit point, which some users found inconvenient. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near Green River Lake, which encompasses 8,000 surface acres and offers boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsReviews highlight concerns about site layout (narrow spaces), restroom cleanliness, and occasionally rude campground hosts.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, though some reviews note dissatisfaction with current hosts and attendants.
Campground Map
69 Corps Rd
Driving directionsFrom Columbia, KY, take Cumberland Parkway to exit 49 and merge onto Highway 55 north. Continue for 1.5 miles, then turn right on Highway 551. After a mile turn left on Holmes Bend Road and follow directional signs to the campground.
Roads leading to Holmes Bend Campground are paved and accessible year-round. There appear to be no seasonal closures or challenging terrain conditions explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Columbia: 10 miles northwest, Campbellsville: approximately 20 miles.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials are available in Columbia, KY (10 miles northwest). Nearby Campbellsville also offers additional options, including Walmart, IGA, Tractor Supply, and gas stations.
Camper Reviews
4.4
242 reviews
Holmes Bend is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews provide mixed opinions about Holmes Bend Campground. Many highlight the family-friendly atmosphere, spacious sites, and accessible amenities. Complaints focus on the cleanliness of bathrooms and interactions with campground hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 242 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include spacious campsites, abundant shade, clean amenities, and family-friendly environment. "Sites are clean and well-maintained," and "The playground is always well taken care...
Based on 242 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints center around rude attendants, poorly maintained bathrooms, and narrow campsites. "The bathrooms were filthy," and "Camp hosts were intimidating," are examples.
Based on 242 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra-long hoses for water hookups, as some water sources are distant from sites. Flashlights are recommended due to limited lighting at night.
Based on 242 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular but bring crowded conditions and occasional cleanliness issues. Late summer and early fall offer a quieter camping experience.
Based on 242 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Very clean and nice to see the attendants out and socializing with the campers." "Most campsites have electric hookups." "The playground is always well taken care of."
Based on 242 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #115 was praised for its spaciousness and proximity to amenities. Site #084 received criticism for narrowness and neighboring dogs barking.
Based on 242 reviewsAccessibility Features
Specific handicap sites are available, and cell phone reception is moderately reliable.
Based on 242 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some users mention issues with unattended pets.
Based on 242 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025