Smith Ridge
4.2684 reviews35 County Park Rd.
Smith Ridge
$20.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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
During peak season (May 9 - September 13), fees for Standard Electric sites are $32/night, and Standard Nonelectric sites range from $20 to $26/night. Weekend and holiday rates add $2 per night.
About this campground
Nestled in the enchanting Highland Rim of Kentucky, Smith Ridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its harmonious blend of whispering forests and sun-dappled meadows overlooking the pristine waters of Green River Lake. This scenic retreat offers 80 thoughtfully arranged campsites, including 62 sites equipped with water and electric hookups for modern convenience. Whether you're settling in for the night after a day of lake adventures or simply savoring the tranquility of nature, you'll appreciate the campground's comfortable amenities including hot showers, flush toilets, and campfire rings perfect for evening storytelling under the stars.
Smith Ridge Campground accommodates tent camping, RV camping, and group camping, with 62 sites offering water and electric hookups. While primitive camping is not explicitly mentioned, the campground layout suggests options that could support it.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and discover the rich tapestry of American history woven throughout this region. Just a short drive away, the weathered logs of the Civil War-era Atkinson-Griffin Cabin whisper tales of a divided nation, while the humble birthplace of Abraham Lincoln offers profound insights into the early life of America's 16th president. Adventure seekers can venture within an hour to explore the mysterious underground passages of Mammoth Cave National Park, the world's longest known cave system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Smith Ridge comes alive under Kentucky's gentle sun, with pleasantly mild temperatures that occasionally give way to the sultry embrace of southern humidity. These peak months offer ideal conditions for swimming, hiking, and lakeside relaxation. As autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant golds and crimsons, the air turns crisp and clear. Winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland, where freezing temperatures and occasional snowfall create a serene atmosphere for those seeking solitude and off-season adventure.
ElevationPerched along the gentle rises of Kentucky's Highland Rim, Smith Ridge Campground offers commanding views across the landscape without the challenges of extreme altitude. This moderate elevation creates a perfect microclimate where cool forest breezes mingle with warm meadow air, providing natural comfort throughout your stay while offering stunning vantage points for sunrise and sunset viewing over Green River Lake.
Natural Features and SceneryGreen River Lake sprawls magnificently across 32,000 acres of Kentucky's heartland, its emerald waters creating a stunning centerpiece for outdoor recreation. The campground sits amid a patchwork of ancient hardwood forests and wildflower-dotted meadows that roll gently toward the water's edge. Morning mists rise from the lake to dance through towering oaks and maples, while deer graze peacefully in clearings and countless bird species fill the air with their melodies.
Geological RegionThe remarkable Highland Rim of Kentucky forms a natural amphitheater around Smith Ridge Campground, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of gentle hills, limestone bluffs, and fertile valleys. This unique terrain creates diverse ecosystems where dense forests give way to open meadows, all sloping gradually toward the expansive waters of Green River Lake. The region's distinctive karst topography has carved hidden springs and seasonal streams that add to the area's natural charm and ecological richness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, parking, and showers are available. Roads are paved and there are lantern posts provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally described as spacious, with adequate room for families and outdoor activities. Comments like "sites are clean and spacious" and "campsites are good-sized and pretty level" support this.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site but several locations offer seclusion, as indicated by reviews such as "Site was secluded and surrounded by woods." However, proximity between sites can be close, especially in Loop B.
Total Campsites80 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring a 50-ft water hose for hookups due to site layout. Avoid Loop A for larger RVs as roads are tight. Loop B offers more level and spacious sites.
Best CampsitesCampsites in Loop A are heavily shaded and recommended for seclusion. Loop B features more spacious sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:30 PM
Check-out
4:30 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of six (6) guests or one family unit per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has two main loops, Loop A and Loop B, with a mix of wooded and open sites.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground opens for reservations May 9 and closes September 13 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not guaranteed, as reservations must be made in advance through Recreation.gov or via phone.
Cancellation PolicyCustomers who cancel before their scheduled arrival date are charged a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Smith Ridge Campground offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and frisbee golf. The nearby Green River Lake adds opportunities for swimming and water-based sports. Seasonal hunting is also popular in the surrounding forested areas.
Hiking
Trails wind around Green River Lake and along the shore, offering scenic views. "Miles of trails that wind around the lake and along the shore" provide diverse hiking experiences.Fishing
Fishing is highly popular, with species like walleye, crappie, white bass, channel catfish, muskie, and bluegill available. "We caught several 4-5 pound catfish" illustrates successful catches.Swimming
Swimming areas include a beach within 1 mile of the campground. However, reviews like "the swimming beach is mucky and rocky at the bottom" suggest water shoes might be necessary.Boating
Boating options include fishing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and other water activities. Ten boat ramps and three full-service marinas are available around the lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer and various bird species. "We delighted in seeing multiple deer very close to our campsite" captures the experience.Beach activities
Beach activities like sunbathing and swimming are available at the nearby swimming beach. Some users noted issues like cleanliness and maintenance, for example, "the beach 1 mile away was dirty."Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular water activities supported by the lake's facilities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated grills or fireplaces.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks and poison ivy are frequently reported by visitors. Roads and dump stations may be tight for larger RVs.
Active alertsCampground services are limited during off-season periods, and reservations are not marked at campsites. Visitors must reserve their site before setting up.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.2 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
The nearest emergency services are in Campbellsville, KY, approximately 1 mile away, which includes hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 - September 13
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not provided at each site but general cleanliness is maintained. "There were not trash cans at each site," and "grounds were clearly overcrowded" indicate some issues with waste management.
Proximity to water featuresGreen River Lake is nearby, offering boating and fishing opportunities. The designated swimming beach is 1 mile away.
Common complaintsCommon issues include unreliable electric hookups, limited cell phone service, poison ivy around sites, and tight parking/dump station access. Some visitors have reported rude park attendants.
HostHosts are present during peak season and known for being helpful, although some visitors reported rudeness in recent years.
Campground Map
35 County Park Rd.
Driving directionsFrom Campbellsville, KY, take Highway 70 east for a mile. Turn right on Highway 372 and continue for 3 miles, then turn right again onto County Park Road. Follow the directional signs to the campground.
County Park Road is accessible via Highway 372, which is paved and in standard condition. No seasonal closures were mentioned, but the campground entry road may be tight for larger RVs.Nearby places
Campbellsville (1 mile)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Campbellsville, KY, approximately 1 mile away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
84 reviews
Smith Ridge is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed user reviews highlight the picturesque location, clean facilities, and friendly staff. However, some concerns include limited cell service, tick prevalence, and tight site layouts.
Review Summaries
Based on 84 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, friendly staff, shaded campsites, and proximity to Green River Lake are frequently praised. "Restrooms were clean and the showers had nice hot water" and "Park attendants were...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include poor cell phone reception, overcrowded sites, poison ivy, and limited parking. "Ticks are BAD" and "Electric surged all weekend" are examples of recurring complaints.
Based on 84 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a water regulator due to high pressure, water shoes for the mucky beach, and a 50-ft hose for RV water hookups. Several users recommend selecting shaded sites in Loop A for a cooler experience.
Based on 84 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Positive trends occur during quieter off-season months when facilities are less crowded. Summer reviews often mention ticks and poison ivy. Fall offers scenic lake views with fewer campers.
Based on 84 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful campground! Site was secluded and surrounded by woods," "Restrooms and showers were in good shape," "We caught several 4-5 pound catfish," and "Ticks are BAD!"
Based on 84 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site A29 is secluded but challenging for camper setups. Site B30 offers shade but has awkward electrical hookups. Site A7 is wooded and frequented by deer. Site B39 lacks cell service but is quiet...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible facilities are generally well-received, but no specific reviews from users with disabilities are available.
Based on 84 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and generally well-managed. "Pets shall not be left unattended" aligns with campground rules, and no specific issues regarding pets were noted in reviews.
Based on 84 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025