Camp Nelson National Monument

Amazing stories of courage and hope come from the people that stayed or lived at Kentucky's Camp Nelson.

Camp Nelson was originally a supply depot and hospital for the Union Army. It was named after Union General William "Bull" Nelson in 1863. He was murdered the year before by another Union general. Camp Nelson sat on 4,000 acres, with fortifications and 300 buildings. The camp supplied several military campaigns and had 700 hospital beds. This was one of the largest recruitment and training centers for African American soldiers during the Civil War and served as a refugee camp for their wives and children.

The monument and museum tell the story of the people that lived, trained, and worked there and how difficult it was to transition to freedom. When looking at the exhibits, you will learn the history of the camp. These exhibits include artifacts and reconstructed displays like the army barracks and the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. A display about the women at Camp Nelson, a tent encampment, a graveyard surrounded by beautifully maintained grounds.

Miles of walking and hiking trails wind through the rolling hills and open fields. There are historical markers along these trails if you want to explore outside. Restrooms are located at the visitor's center. The visitor's center is open Tuesday - Saturday from 9 am - 5 pm.