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Big Bone Lick
Overview
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site in Union, Kentucky, offers a unique camping experience that blends natural beauty with ancient history. Recognized as the Birthplace of American Vertebrate Paleontology, this park serves as a window into the Pleistocene era. RV travelers will find a well-maintained campground set against a backdrop of rolling hills and forested landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate both education and outdoor relaxation in a quiet, rural setting.
Location & Surroundings
Located in Boone County, the park is defined by its unique salt licks and sulfur springs, which historically attracted prehistoric megafauna and later, colonial explorers. The surrounding terrain features lush greenery and diverse wildlife, most notably the resident bison herd maintained by the state. While the atmosphere feels secluded and peaceful, the park remains conveniently accessible from the I-75 corridor, providing a perfect balance between a wilderness retreat and regional connectivity.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground accommodates RVers with 62 sites equipped with utility hookups including water and electricity. Visitors have access to a variety of on-site facilities designed for comfort and convenience during longer stays.
- Central service buildings featuring modern restrooms and showers.
- A seasonal swimming pool and a playground for family recreation.
- A museum and visitor center showcasing genuine ice-age fossils and historical exhibits.
- On-site laundry facilities and a grocery store for essential supplies.
The park also features miniature golf and several miles of hiking trails that lead through the wooded hills, offering views of the creek and salt flats.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the campground, travelers can explore 4.5 miles of scenic hiking trails that traverse the diverse ecosystems of the salt licks and woodlands. Bird watching and fishing at the nearby lake are popular pastimes for nature enthusiasts. For those willing to drive a short distance, the park is located within a 30-minute radius of Cincinnati, Ohio, where travelers can enjoy urban attractions, or visit the nearby Ark Encounter in Williamstown for a unique cultural excursion.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is a premier choice for history enthusiasts and families seeking an educational yet recreational getaway. Because of its spacious sites and quiet nights, it is particularly well-suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed, slow-paced environment over a high-activity resort. It is ideal for those who enjoy wildlife viewing and want to witness the majestic bison, making it a memorable stop for any RVer exploring the heart of Kentucky.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jason & Kristin VanDePitte
It’s a short easy trail walk to see the bison. It’s better to go early morning before it gets hot. They are large and prefer cooler weather. We have been in several different months and have seen them many times. They come in to eat and are usually in the front pasture, they have been in the middle pasture which is walkable, around the fenced in area to the left side. Handicapped accessible pathway in back of gift shoppe shows mammoths and giant sloths.
Teresa Gilin Meller
We really enjoyed our stay at the campground! It is a beautiful location with great activities. We really enjoyed making hiking sticks, learning about the Atlatl, vising the museum/site, and hiking the trails. A huge thank you to the staff for putting on great events! The campground has access to trails, mini golf, and clean bathrooms. The sites were paved (but not very level) and roomy.
Hannah Adkins
Went on a good day, nice walking trail. Cute gift shop/museum. Seeing the bison so up close was awesome! They were really close to fence. Gotta love the hills and the woods. Also a site for camping, and a couple playgrounds for the kiddos.
Yasemin Baraz
Very nice little visitor center with lots of information, gift shop restrooms. Just when there to see the Bisons. It was 98 F. It's a very short walk from the parking lot 200 ft, mostly in the shade. Definitely want to go back for more to see and have a picnic.
Laura Collins
It is a great area. The museum is nice and bathrooms were clean. The bison trail and trail next to the museum were nice. We also did the other trails and wish they would have been a little better marked. We had a really nice time though!