Best Camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY (143)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    2. Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    41 Reviews
    137 Photos
    85 Saves
    Rugby, Tennessee

    Overview

    Bandy Creek is a spacious and modern campground, situated in The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area--a vast and scenic expanse of land that offers visitors countless recreational activities.

    Recreation

    Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. A swimming pool, along with on-site volleyball court, playgrounds and ball fields, make Bandy Creek an ideal spot for families. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities.

    Natural Features

    The Big South Fork is located in north central Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky in some of the most rugged terrain of the Cumberland Plateau. The park encompasses approximately 125,000 acres including rocky gorges and forested plateaus. Numerous pristine streams unite with the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. Over thousands of years, ceaselessly moving water has carved the sandstone of the plateau into impressive cliffs, arches and chimneys, which are found throughout the park.

    Nearby Attractions

    Located just under 20 miles from Bandy Creek is the Blue Heron Mine, also known as Mine 18, a historic abandoned mining town that has been rebuilt as an outdoor museum. Visitors can hear audio presentations from actual people who lived in the community in the 1950s.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $140 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    3. Blue Heron Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    23 Reviews
    130 Photos
    32 Saves
    Stearns, Kentucky

    Overview

    Blue Heron Campground is a rustic and spacious campground, situated on the Kentucky side of The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area--a vast and scenic expanse of land that offers visitors countless recreational activities.

    Recreation

    Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities.

    Natural Features

    The Big South Fork is located in north central Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky in some of the most rugged terrain of the Cumberland Plateau. The park encompasses approximately 125,000 acres of both rocky gorges and forested plateaus. Numerous pristine streams unite with the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. Over thousands of years, this ceaselessly moving water has carved the sandstone of the plateau into impressive cliffs, arches and chimneys that are found throughout the park.

    Nearby Attractions

    Just a few miles from the campground is Blue Heron Mine, also known as Mine 18, a historic abandoned mining town that has been rebuilt as an outdoor museum. Visitors can hear audio presentations from actual people who lived in the community in the 1950s. The Big South Fork Scenic Railway Depot is located about 9 miles away in the town of Stearns, which offers train rides and other educational opportunities for campers. More information can be found online at https://bsfsry.com. Additional attractions include the Daniel Boone National Forest and Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, offering additional recreation opportunities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground

    4. Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    224 Photos
    105 Saves
    Pall Mall, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $23 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay

    5. Holly Bay

    16 Reviews
    68 Photos
    135 Saves
    Keavy, Kentucky

    Overview

    Holly Bay, located two miles north of the Laurel River Dam, sits on the west side of Laurel River Lake. Visitors enjoy the campground for its proximity to the water and beautifully forested location. Plus, Holly Bay is ideal for activities like power boating, canoeing and fishing. The forest was named after Daniel Boone, a famous frontiersman and explorer who settled in Kentucky in the late 18th century.

    Recreation

    Boating and water activities are a big hit. A boat ramp is located a short distance from the campground.Hikers take pleasure in the 4.2-mile Sheltowee Trace Trail that leads from the campground to the dam.

    Natural Features

    Most campsites are surrounded by a mixture of hardwood trees that provide picture-perfect colors in autumn. Laurel River Lake spans 5,600 acres of deep, clear water and 192 miles of cliff-lined shore. Bountiful hills from the Appalachian foothills create a backdrop for the lake area.

    Nearby Attractions

    Head to the Cumberland Falls Trail that begins at Cumberland Falls and ends at the mouth of the Laurel River. This trail is a 30-45 minute drive from the campground.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (606) 878-8134.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $38 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from General Burnside Island State Park Campground

    7. General Burnside Island State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    25 Photos
    20 Saves
    Burnside, Kentucky

    This recreation area is part of Lake Cumberland

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Meadows Campground

    8. Great Meadows Campground

    8 Reviews
    8 Photos
    22 Saves
    Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky

    The Great Meadows Campground, located on Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest, is developed on both sides of the road. Deer Loop is on the right; Raccoon Loop is on the left. Deer Loop is open year round; but the water is shut off during the winter season. Raccoon Loop is April 1 - November 15. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your visit to Great Meadows Campground. Learn more... View Great Meadows Guide and Map Rock Creek, a designated Kentucky Wild River, runs along the Raccoon Loop. Rock Creek is stocked with rainbow trout March - June and September - December.. Campsite availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Trails nearby: Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail - Section 37 and Section 38; Mark Branch Trail # 635 and Gobblers Arch Trail # 636.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 - $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland
    Camper-submitted photo from Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland

    9. Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland

    9 Reviews
    20 Photos
    65 Saves
    Burnside, Kentucky

    Overview

    Waitsboro Campground is at 500 Waitsboro Road and is situated on beautiful Lake Cumberland in southern Kentucky.Click here for the Lake Cumberland virtual tour.

    Recreation

    Lake Cumberland is the largest man-made lake east of the Mississippi River. Its large surface acreage and over 1,200 miles of shoreline provide a myriad of recreational activities. The lake has an abundance of largemouth, smallmouth, white and Kentucky bass, bluegill, crappie, rockfish and walleye, making it a favorite among anglers. The Black Walnut Nature Trail, located near the lake office, is a self-guided educational trail. The trail is open Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4pm EST.

    Natural Features

    The campground overlooks the main body of the lake, offering sweeping scenic views. Dense stands of mature hardwoods forest the site, offering scenic views, pleasant shade and wildlife habitat. Because of the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, the lake provides varied outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year.

    Nearby Attractions

    General Burnside Island State Park is nearby. It was named after Civil War General Ambrose Burnside, who led patrols along the Cumberland River, circling this 400-acre island to keep watch for Confederate soldiers. Visitors come today to enjoy boating, fishing, golfing and picnicking on Kentucky's only island state park. Burnside Marina is 10 minutes away, with boat rentals, a restaurant and general store.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground

    10. Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground

    8 Reviews
    78 Photos
    43 Saves
    Williamsburg, Kentucky

    Thank you for considering Clayton Geneva memorial campground for your camping trip. Please read the entire description including our rules and regulations. Also be sure to view the site map. The gravel driveway to the sites is passable with any vehicle. If you choose to use our alternate parking there will be a hike to your site, appropriately 1/8 of a mile. I can’t stress enough that it is primitive camping, there is a restroom available at the top of the hill. We are inviting you to enjoy a peaceful, primitive camping experience on a spacious plot right on the sandy banks of the Cumberland River. We offer a tree canopy covered, serene spot that offers river swimming, fishing, enjoy a camp fire or just plain nothing but peace and quiet. Each site is equipt with a fire ring. The drive way to the primitive sites is a little lane that wraps around a mountain side that leads to the primitive sites. We do our best to keep up with it however due to the nature of weather, gravity and water it’s a constant chore. Your welcome to hike in to the sites, it’s not mandatory that you driver on down. If you feel comfortable by all means slowly drive directly to your site. If your not sure of the lane please hike to your site. Hikers, Horses and riders welcome, located a couple miles from Daniel Boone National Forrest, seemingly endless trails through some of the most beautiful country. Bring your canoe and kayaks. Located 16 miles from Cumberland Falls State Park. Located 11 miles from Sheltowee Trade Adventure Park. Located 11 miles from Kentucky Splash Water Park. Located 11 miles from Wal-Mart, restaurants and Pilot

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $70 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 143 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Recent Reviews in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

642 Reviews of 143 Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Campgrounds


  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    Beautiful, well kept campground…

    We loved Bandycreek campground for it{s scenic beauty….we were there in late October. They leaves were brilliant! The campground was pristine as well as the shower house and bathrooms. So many trails to walk…just make sure you know how long they really are and if they truly are a loop before you head out and take water! The campground was quiet, there was a bustle of activity every morning of park staff cleaning the shower house, emptying the bear boxes and doing general maintenance cleaning up downed branches etc. All staff were met were very friendly. The visitors center was close with staff who were very helpful in answering questions about the area. Our only concern about the place was that it is difficult to navigate if you have a large rv. Ours is a 43 foot fifth wheel. We had a lot of difficulty backing into our site with all the little obstacles but with the assistance of a fellow camper we finally got in. Also the drive into the campsite is treacherous if you are coming from Oneida. It is harrowing to say the least and I would not recommend it if you have a large rv. Hairpin turns and switchbacks, low hanging rocks, and narrow road. We came in the back way which consisted of driving on a well maintained gravel road with barely enough room for two vehicles to pass. So be warned and do your research before you drive in…plan your route! I feel like we barely survived! Ha. But it was worth it and we did survive!

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Off The Hook RV Campground
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Off The Hook RV Campground

    Fall Break Overnighter

    Found this campground on the map near Haneys Appledale Farm in Nancy Kentucky. Nice, new, “shiny” campground. The owner was extremely friendly and we spoke briefly about the place. As listed above there’s no showerhouse, so bring your own if you want to visit. There’s also no shade, they are creating their campground in a very nicely tiered field and working on getting a pond going to fish in. Nice size sites with easy access power , water and sewer. Gravel drive and pads, fire ring and picnic table. There is an AWESOME playground and pavilion set back in the trees! My grand loved the ropes course. We stayed in the back of the campground on a full moon night so I can’t say how dark it is on a no moon night, it was very quiet and we enjoyed our visit.

  • Will and Lucinda B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cross Mountain Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Cross Mountain Campground

    Love this campground! Very quiet!

    This campground is pretty new and not too large, making it a nice quiet getaway.  All the sites are concrete with nice gravel between, along with picnic tables and firepits.  Because it's isolated in the trees, you can't even hear the main road!

    One thing we liked is the great drainage.  Even on the rainy days, there were almost no puddles due to good landscaping and slight slope.   The water pressure is really strong, be sure to use your pressure regulator!

    The bathhouse is nice and clean.  There's a playground with slides and such here, too.

    We were here during the month of October and the owners and helpers decorated the area with pumpkins and little scarecrows.

    The drive up from the main road is 85% paved with nice new asphalt.  Just a short section that's gravel.  On the nice days, we would walk all the way from the campground down the hill to the main road and back.

    There's Wifi available, and it was at least as good as our AT&T cell connection, and we were able to keep our Starlink on pause, saving us a month's cost there.

    We will definitely be staying here again.  No question.

    The only negative I can add is that there's no real "office" to receive packages.  We had to replace our rig's AC unit, and the owner allows me to ship it to his house about a mile away.  When it arrived I drove over and picked it up.  For other stuff, I just got a post office box in town.  (They don't do General Delivery at this USPS location.)

  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Holly Bay
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Holly Bay

    Beautiful setting

    The sites are nice and wooded.  There is plenty of space between sites to give each camp a little privacy.  We were a drive up, no reservation camper.  They only took cash or check on-site.  Camp host was very nice and helpful.

  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rockcastle Riverside
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Rockcastle Riverside

    Easy access to Daniel Boone National Forest

    We stayed here as the kick off to the KAT.  The sites are grassy right next to the river.  Bathroom is clean, and there is also a small camp store.

  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from True West Campground & Stables
    Oct. 13, 2024

    True West Campground & Stables

    Super Friendly Staff

    We stayed here on a KAT section 2 trip.  Super friendly and helpful staff.   They had campsites, covered wagons, and cabins.  The had a small camp store and sold firewood

  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from True West Campground & Stables
    Oct. 13, 2024

    True West Campground & Stables

    Super Friendly Staff

    We stayed there while running the KAT section 2.  Great staff.  Lots of room for horses.  They had campsites, covered wagons and cabin space.

  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1

    Jellico Creek 1

    There are three dispersed camp sites along this road.  We stayed at the first and largest of the three.  This first site has room for two groups.  It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing.

  • Gary D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground

    Noisy

    Loud Carson road and kids playing basketball til 11:00 pm. They were very loud and vulgar.

    Site had lots of room though. We left after the first nite. Lost our next 2 nites fee but worth the loss not having to stay any longer.

    Staff somewhat indifferent.

  • brody2219 J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Obey River Park
    Aug. 9, 2024

    Obey River Park

    Beautiful and family friendly

    This is a beautiful campground! Very Family oriented.  The park attendants are so nice and welcome families and will help you in any way!  We love going here and feel so safe because the sheriff department  along with the attendants are always coming through.  Some of the nicest attendants, always has a smile and willing to help in any way!

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Williamsburg, ky
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Williamsburg, ky

    Wave!

    Spent 2 nights in July at Kentucky Splash Park Campground. Only reason it didn’t get a 5 star is first needs more shade (there are new trees growing ) and the cut through road is busy in the evening from local traffic. Nice size sites with cement or gravel parking. Cement pads with picnic tables and strangely deep fire pits.

    The showerhouse is in well maintained shape. Plenty of room and hooks to hang your stuff from. Hot water and large shower heads.

    Small playground and pavilion to use.

    Easy walk across the parking lot to the water park. Price not included in site cost. If you get a wrist ban you can get back in for the day.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Cumberland Fall Creek Campground
    Jul. 15, 2024

    COE Lake Cumberland Fall Creek Campground

    Beautiful and quiet

    We arrived on a Tuesday and left on Friday. This campground has 10 sites on a hill. It is quiet and away from towns. Some sites are close but not bad. The shower/bath house is fairly new and clean. Being on the hill, to get to the lake is a steep walk. They have a set of steps going down the back side of the hill if you want to leave your boat in the water down there. It’s in a hollow off the main lake. The only drawback would be that the dump site was too tight and unlevel for me to feel comfortable trying to dump.

  • joseph B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tuscarora Glade
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Tuscarora Glade

    Beautiful, peaceful, spacious, friendly

    This is one of my favorite spots to camp.  The host is amazing, provides great amenities, and takes care of his campground very well.  If you are looking for a great view with plenty of space for tents and hammocks, look no further.  You will not go wrong with booking with this host.

  • L&A C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    Jun. 27, 2024

    Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

    Small but Nice!

    Easy to find, well marked. It’s has many (12) trails and many falls. Would definitely recommend shopping before camping, it’s several miles, and mountains, to get to stores. There are several lodging options…cottages, The Lodge, (which is beautiful) tent and RV camping. There are 2 small campgrounds ~ 1) Ridgeline which accommodates RVs up to 26”, water and 10/30/50 amp hook ups. Sites have a fire ring and picnic table. WiFi is available, and there is a dump station. A small playground, office/campstore, and a bathhouse and laundry next to it. 3 sites are walk-in. Big rigs would have to stay elsewhere. 2) Clifty Campground is tent camping only 7 sites offer electric and water. WiFi is also offered. There is a bathhouse and a playground, and these CG’s are pet friendly. (Falls Creek is a few miles up the road…they have pull through and back ins. For bigger Rvs. They also have tents, wagons, cabin rentals, and primitive sites) We had no T-Mobile service, or satellite service in our vehicle. The trails and Cumberland falls were awesome. The horse rides looked amazing, and the Pool was big, with a diving board, and a small fee for campers to use it.

  • L&A C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ride Royal Blue ATV Resort and Campground Pioneer, TN
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Ride Royal Blue ATV Resort and Campground Pioneer, TN

    RV Heaven for ATV/OHV/SxS Camping!

    Approximately 4 miles off of exit 144, from I~75. Easy to locate, and a well maintained RV campground! Website has all the info on the different types of sites, cabins and ATV’s. Resources for permits, pricing, and other requirements are also listed. The trails are accessible from the CG. FHUs on Back in and Pull-throughs,bathhouses, on site fishing pond, playground, and Ohhh yes….the ATV wash station! General store is on the right from the entrance, which is awesome! They sell firewood and ice, as well as extreme OHV sporting equipment/gear, snacks, souvenirs….to list a few. Rental cabins are available nearby, for larger families or groups. I believe they thought of almost everything! I would love to come camp here in the fall, as I can imagine that the views are spectacular! They provide WiFi, but my T-Mobile reception was good, at 3 bars.

  • L&A C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rabbit Road Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Rabbit Road Campground — Indian Mountain State Park

    Primitive camping at its best!

    Primitive isn’t our mode of camping, but we rode our bikes up the road to check out this beautiful campground. Easy to find, marked with a sign. The road to the campground forks to the left, past the State Park entrance sign. There are plenty of picnic tables and trash cans, before the trails. There is also a mutt mitt station. And an info board, with trail & State Park map.The state park offers 5 trails, pavilions, as well as playgrounds and a lake. Since it’s extremely hot, and there were several areas along the trail with ponds, the biting flies and mosquitoes were active! The camping path and sites were well marked, and sites started at #10, next to the parking lot, and family bathhouse. There are fire pits at each site. The sites are semi private, and 1-9-10 are the most popular sites used, according to the Ranger. No one was camping when we were there on a Sunday afternoon. I posted a video of us biking out of the trail campsites, getting #8, on the right, 9 on left, #10 last, then back at the beginning, to the bathhouse and parking lot.

  • L&A C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Indian Mountain State Park Campground — Indian Mountain State Park

    Mountain View Galore!

    Back-in site, FHUs, concrete pad, some shade. Fire pit and picnic table at each site, ours is located behind our site. There are 2 playgrounds, Disc golf course, volleyball area, a beautiful lake(with rental paddle boats for $14 hr) We Bought fire wood and Disc Golf sets, at the campground store. Clean with coded entry Bathhouse, by one of the playgrounds. There is an 18 hole Disc Golf we will be playing. We Love the views, and are looking forward to trying out the 5 trails this weekend! The lake is beautiful with geese and ducks hanging out! We used our Starlink over 100Mps, and our T-Mobile had fair reception. There are also 2 playgrounds at the SP!

  • Alyssia C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Rock Resort & Campground
    Jun. 9, 2024

    Eagle Rock Resort & Campground

    Amazing Area

    Eagle Rock Resort & Campground is amazing. If you are looking for a place to ride trails and relax, this is the place. You could seriously come here multiple times a year and still not see all of the different trails. The site manager, Jeff, and his staff was extremely nice and helpful. Always there to please and help make your experience one to remember. I am not the camping type so the condos they have for rent was perfect for my group. Spacious and clean with everything you need. We even had very comfortable king size bunk beds, never seen anything like it before. Cannot say enough great things about this experience. Definitely worth a stay!!!

  • Kayla L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground
    May. 29, 2024

    Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground

    Swamp

    Only 2 of the 6 sites are usable if it has rained within a week of your stay. Would not recommend for large groups unless you enjoy sleeping in mud. Would not recommend unless the weather is pristine.

  • Jess S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Patrick’s Point River Camp
    May. 26, 2024

    Patrick’s Point River Camp

    A great little getaway spot!

    We will absolutely be back! I’ll be honest, as a visibly queer person with rainbow hair I was a bit nervous about the Bible verses and Christian flag due to past experiences, but Patrick and Angelica were welcoming and friendly the entire time!

    The RV spot with shade was great! It’s right next to the bathroom but everyone is spread out enough it wasn’t an issue at all.

    Strong WiFi, pet friendly, and a beautiful, peaceful spot with very friendly owners!

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
    May. 18, 2024

    Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

    Nice location with lots of things to do

    Great spot. Full hook ups at many spots. Sites are in cul de sacs. Lake is beautiful and really close. Staff is super nice and helpful. Nice playgrounds and pools. WiFi is not currently working. AT&T and Verizon service is good. Lots of wildlife around. Nice hiking trails.

  • Greg L.
    Camper-submitted photo from West Campground — Norris Dam State Park
    May. 12, 2024

    West Campground — Norris Dam State Park

    Site #2

    We stayed at site #2 which was nice but had soft ground from prior rain (when other sites had already dried up well). There were a lot of headlights on us from traffic entering the campground, even up til MIDNIGHT on Saturday. I would stay here again but would choose a site more towards the backside of the loop for less traffic going by your site



Guide to Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky, offers a mix of stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the water, there’s something for everyone in this area.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails to explore. Many campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer noting, "We hiked the Wildflower Loop Trail in a drizzle and although wet it was safe. When the rain stopped we hiked Eagle Falls Trail and it was very muddy but the views were worth it."
  • Fishing and Boating: The lakes and rivers in the area are perfect for fishing and boating. One camper mentioned, "Great fishing lake and river," highlighting the fun you can have on the water.
  • Horseback Riding: For those who enjoy horseback riding, there are options available. A reviewer shared, "A 45-minute horse ride for $25 is an absolute steal," making it a great addition to your camping experience.

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park said, "The trails and Cumberland Falls were awesome," emphasizing the park's natural beauty.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds in the area are well-maintained. A reviewer at Bandy Creek Campground noted, "Clean bathrooms were a short walk away and had ample hot water for showers."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Cove Lake State Park Campground are great for families, with one camper stating, "Nice playgrounds for the kids."

What you should know

  • Tight Campsites: Some campgrounds have close quarters. A visitor at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park mentioned, "Be aware, that the campsites are exactly the length as indicated. Not an inch more!"
  • Limited Cell Service: Expect spotty cell service in many areas. One camper shared, "We had no T-Mobile service, or satellite service in our vehicle," so plan accordingly.
  • Weather Considerations: The weather can be unpredictable. A reviewer at Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground noted, "We endured a nearly 24-hour torrential downpour," so be prepared for rain.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly options like Bandy Creek Campground, which has amenities for kids. One reviewer said, "There is a small on-site store and a playground for the kids."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper mentioned, "There are several lodging options… cottages, The Lodge, tent and RV camping," which can help accommodate different family needs.
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A visitor at Cove Lake State Park Campground noted, "The roads themselves were well maintained, though maybe a little narrow at times."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Blue Heron Campground said, "Electric and water. Site on the incline were tricky with a larger rig."
  • Use Dump Stations: Many campgrounds have convenient dump stations. A camper at Kendall Campground mentioned, "This campground provides electric and water at most sites, has two dump stations."
  • Bring Extra Blocks: Some sites can be unlevel. A visitor at Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground advised, "Bring lots of blocks," to help level your RV.

Camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area offers a wide range of camping options, with 143 campgrounds and RV parks near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is Cumberland Falls State Resort Park with a 4.3-star rating from 46 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

  • What parks are near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 parks near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area that allow camping, notably Laurel River Lake and Lake Cumberland.