Camp Nelson National Monument
The US Army established Camp Nelson as a fortified supply depot in April 1863.
Photo: NPS/A. Goetz / NPS
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.
Pair it with another park
KYdrive time
KYdrive time
OHdrive time
KYdrive time
KYdrive time
TNdrive time
Driving times from Camp Nelson National Monument, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
Camp Nelson National Monument
- Mon
- Sunrise to Sunset
- Tue
- Sunrise to Sunset
- Wed
- Sunrise to Sunset
- Thu
- Sunrise to Sunset
- Fri
- Sunrise to Sunset
- Sat
- Sunrise to Sunset
- Sun
- Sunrise to Sunset
Activities
Getting there
Kentucky has a moderate climate, where summers are humid with highs typically in the upper 80s, and winter highs are in the low 40s. Of course, be aware of the possibility of storms or more extreme temperatures on occasion. The wettest months are March - July when about 4 inches of rain per month are expected, with other months of the year are usually drier.
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Camp Nelson National Monument?
- Popular activities include Front-Country Hiking, Hiking, Junior Ranger Program, Museum Exhibits, Park Film.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Camp Nelson National Monument?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument (1 h 11 min), Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park (1 h 34 min), William Howard Taft National Historic Site (1 h 52 min), Cumberland Gap National Historical Park (2 h 27 min), Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area (2 h 30 min), Obed Wild & Scenic River (2 h 32 min).