Columbus-Belmont State Park

If you enjoy history, a quiet setting and phenomenal views, then this is a campground you are sure to enjoy.  Columbus-Belmont State Park is located in the far western region of Kentucky and overlooks the legendary Mississippi River and on into Missouri.  Civil War battles were fought here and the trenches dug out by the Confederate soldiers are still there.  In fact, they were right next to our campsite.  Walking through the areas where soldiers once fought and died is certainly a surreal feeling, especially when combined with the peaceful beauty the park has to offer. 

This campground offers several sites overlooking the Mississippi, a very clean bath house with showers, coin operated laundry facilities, a playground and a vending machine. 

Separate from the campground is a museum, picnic areas, another playground, picnic shelters and Civil War memorabilia on display, such as a large anchor and impressive canons.  There's a short hiking trip to be enjoyed as well. 

Word of CAUTION:  Bring the Off  spray!  Seriously.  We went in June, and while walking throughout the park by the museum, we were attacked by clouds of mosquitoes.  I've never experienced such an attack from swarms of mosquitoes, and I grew up in Florida near the Everglades!

I highly recommend this park for a couple seeking solitude, but it's also great for kids.  Everyone at the campground seemed to have a mutual respect for fellow campers.  Kids rode their bikes during the day, lots of them appeared to have come camping with Grandma and Grandpa, but at night, quiet stillness set in as we enjoyed our campfire.  The grounds are kept clean, and appeared very well maintained.  When we arrived at our campsite, the grass appeared freshly cut and not a single cigarette butt was to be found.

Pros: 

• Fantastic Views
• Friendly staff/well-maintained grounds
• Rich in history
• Extremely accomodating for RVs (there were many large Fifth Wheels at this camp site)
• Pets are allowed as long as restrained

Cons:

• Beware of campsites with light posts, as this ruins the effect of having a campfire at night.
• Not very ideal for tent campers

This photo was taken directly from our campsite.  The views cannot be beat!  I've yet to camp at a campground that offers better views and serenity. 

Click here for additional information, maps and directions. 

Happy camping!