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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Camp Nelson National Monument

Wilmore, Kentucky · Jessamine County

The US Army established Camp Nelson as a fortified supply depot in April 1863. Over the next 3 years, the site evolved into a massive recruitment and training center for United States Colored Troops and a refugee camp for their families. It served as a shelter for civilians fleeing war and for enslaved people hoping to…

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37.79702, -84.59817
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Camp Nelson National Monument

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High87°F
Avg Low66°F
Peak Rain Chance31%
Humidity75%
UV (avg)8
Air Quality44 · Good
Today
🌦
Drizzle
82°/69°
💧 4%🌬 7mph
6:37 AM8:52 PM
Mon
🌫
Fog
91°/68°
💧 3%🌬 12mph
6:38 AM8:51 PM
Tue
🌧
Heavy Rain
91°/71°
💧 31%🌬 17mph
6:38 AM8:50 PM
Wed
☁️
Overcast
85°/65°
💧 2%🌬 8mph
6:39 AM8:50 PM
Thu
☁️
Overcast
87°/59°
🌬 8mph
6:40 AM8:49 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Camp Nelson National Monument

The US Army established Camp Nelson as a fortified supply depot in April 1863. Over the next 3 years, the site evolved into a massive recruitment and training center for United States Colored Troops and a refugee camp for their families. It served as a shelter for civilians fleeing war and for enslaved people hoping to secure their freedom and aid in the destruction of slavery.

How to Get There

Camp Nelson National Monument is located along US 27 about 20 miles south of Lexington, Kentucky, 6 miles south of Nicholasville on US 27, and 16 miles north of Danville, KY on US 27. The Park entrance is on the original Danville Pike, adjacent to US 27, one mile north of the Camp Nelson National Cemetery.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Camp Nelson National Monument

Heading to Camp Nelson National Monument? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Camp Nelson National Monument?

No central reservation system listed for Camp Nelson National Monument. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/10036532) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Camp Nelson National Monument?

Camp Nelson National Monument is located along US 27 about 20 miles south of Lexington, Kentucky, 6 miles south of Nicholasville on US 27, and 16 miles north of Danville, KY on US 27. The Park entrance is on the original Danville Pike, adjacent to US 27, one mile north of the Camp Nelson National Cemetery.

How do I contact Camp Nelson National Monument?

You can reach the park at phone: (859) 881-5716 or email: cane_info@nps.gov.