Kentucky is widely known for many things: its rich culture rooted in horse racing, bluegrass music, and bourbon; being home to countless waterfalls; and a vibrant sports scene. 

Something slightly lesser-known but certainly noteworthy about Kentucky is its important history, particularly along the Mississippi River on the western border. 

Perched on top of picturesque bluffs overlooking the Mississippi, Columbus-Belmont State Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in American history. The park, listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Kentucky Civil War Heritage Trail, was a strategic site during the Civil War. Today, it preserves remarkable military history and memorabilia — and the park’s lush, tranquil scenery and river views are incredible, too. 

Columbus-Belmont State Park Facts

Get to know this fantastic state park with these interesting state park facts. 

• Columbus-Belmont State Park is part of the Kentucky Great River Road National Scenic Byway, historically and geographically important — not to mention incredibly picturesque!
• Columbus-Belmont State Park was an important Confederate stronghold during the Civil War, as it was strategically located for both sides fighting over control of the Mississippi River. 
• The park was the site of the 1861 Battle of Belmont, famous for being General Ulysses S. Grant’s first official Civil War battle. 
• Columbus, Kentucky, was so significant that America’s then-leaders seriously considered relocating the Capitol there from Washington, DC.
• Columbus-Belmont State Park is open year-round: from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM April 1-October 15 and from 8:00 AM to dusk in the winter.

Now that you’ve learned some more about Columbus-Belmont State Park, it’s time to dive into all the ins and outs of visiting and camping here!

Best Columbus-Belmont State Park RV Parks and Campgrounds

With its location right on the Mississippi River, camping options near Columbus-Belmont State Park include multiple states: Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee, and Illinois!

Columbus-Belmont State Park Campground

This year-round campsite is the only one inside Columbus-Belmont State Park. There are 38 sites, all with water and electric hookups. 11 sites also have sewer. All sites also have a patio, fire ring, and picnic table, and there’s a central bathhouse, laundry facilities, and playground. 

More Information: Columbus-Belmont State Park Campground

Indian Camp Campground

Those looking for relaxation and adventure while visiting Columbus-Belmont State Park will love Indian Camp. The 12-site campground has rustic campsites and some with electricity hookups. All sites are spacious enough to bring horse trailers and outdoor “toys,” and it’s close to the FREE Wright’s Area 252 ATV Riding Park.

More Information: Indian Camp Campground

Boomland RV Park and Campground

Just across the Mississippi River in Missouri, Boomland is about 45 minutes away from Columbus-Belmont State Park. The no-frills park offers full hookup sites and is within walking distance of Boomland, a large truck stop with a store, restaurant, and as the name implies, a huge selection of fireworks in the summer.

More Information: Boomland RV Park and Campground

Magnolia Campground & Country Store

Another Missouri campground near Columbus-Belmont State Park, Magnolia has 18 sites with electric and water. They each have a picnic table, grill, and fire pit, and there’s a dump station on-site. Magnolia’s store and deli are well-known for their large selection and made-to-order dishes.

More Information: Magnolia Campground 

Fort Defiance State Park

For people interested in boondocking, Fort Defiance State Park in Cairo, Illinois, is a great option. It’s just 40 minutes from Columbus-Belmont State Park and the campground has 16 sites, half rustic and half with electric-only hookups. 

More Information: Fort Defiance State Park

Things To Do in Columbus-Belmont State Park 

• History buffs and nature lovers alike will find plenty of things to do in Columbus-Belmont State Park all year long!
• Visit the Columbus-Belmont State Park Civil War Museum, which served as a hospital during the Civil War. 
• Walk or hike the trails through the massive earthen trenches the Confederates used as cover. At one time, these trenches protected over 19,000 soldiers!
• Play a round of mini-golf, open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• Get up-close and personal with 1860s-era cannons and other artillery used during the war. During this time period, there were over 140 active cannons in forts!
• View an anchor and part of the massive one-mile-long chain Confederates strategically stretched across the river in an attempt to block Union gunboats.

Rent an RV To Experience Columbus-Belmont State Park Camping

Now that you’ve learned all about visiting and camping at Columbus-Belmont State Park, the only things left to do are decide when to go and choose your favorite Cruise America RV model!

With a Kentucky pickup location conveniently located in Louisville, it couldn’t be easier to hit the open road, relax, and make memories with your loved ones! You can even take a small detour and visit Mammoth Cave National Park on your way!

Contact Cruise America to book your RV rental today and in the meantime, have fun planning your trip to Kentucky!