This is the HEADLINE

Southern

$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**GRAND PRIZE**
$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**4 RUNNERS UP WIN**
[The Dyrt PRO](https://thedyrt.com/pro): 6-Month Membershp


nearby

What's the most underrated Kentucky camping? Walking in! These remote campgrounds can be reached by walking in and offer the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a way you've never experienced before. Find the best information on walk-in camping in Kentucky, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience.

Kentucky

The Best Walk-In Camping in Kentucky

Looking for a new type of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area camping experience? Try walk-in camping! Nature surrounds you, so it's perfect for those who want to sleep out under the stars in their own private paradise. Check out some of the best walk-in camping spots in Kentucky.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

The Best Walk-In Camping Near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, 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

Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground 

Summer Shoals Retreat is a beautiful river front private campground. We have both sleep cabins and tent sites on a mowed bank or backwoods camping on the Cumberland River. We are located 15 mins southwest of Williamsburg Kentucky within the Wild and Scenic Cumberland River corridor. We are within a 10 minute hike to trails that will take you into the Daniel Boone National Forest.



Summer Shoals Retreat

## 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.

## Facilities

Blue Heron Campground combines the experience of traditional woods camping with the modern convenience of flush toilets, hot showers and electric hookups. Sites can accommodate both RV and tent camping.   
  
The campsites are spacious and provide picnic areas and plenty of shade.

## 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.

Blue Heron Campground

True West is centrally located by Big South Fork with easy access to a great many outdoor adventures. Our facilities include 33 easy access, level RV and camping sites, all with water and electric, some with sewer hookups. Our shower houses are very clean and provide plenty of hot water!

For those who use it, there is a WIFI hot spot on the covered deck and a Verizon "hot spot" where cell phone signals are hard to come by! 

Don't have a Camper or Living Quarter? We've got you covered! We have lodging available to rent. Many different options to choose from. There is the Marshal Suite in the main building, the tucked-in-the-woods Miner's Shack Cabin or a camper you can rent that will sleep a family of up to 10. We also offer the unique experience of sleeping in covered wagons or teepee - but with some creature comforts of home (beds!!).

If you are in need of horse facilities, we have two large barns with a total of 67 stalls, each with 2 bucket hooks for your water and feed, a saddle rack and a bridle hook. We have a few extra large stalls, as well as two large horse wash areas, and a large 60' round pen.

True West also offers parking and the use of the common area to those just passing through for the day and needing access to the trails. 

True West Campground, Stables and Mercantile

Rockcastle Riverside has 20 back-in 100-foot RV sites with 50 amp electric and water hookups next to river. There is one full-service dump station. There are also 10 primitive camping sites with limited picnic tables close to 5 bathrooms. One shower is available behind general store/check-in with more to come in very near future. 20 more secluded and full day shaded primitive sites coming soon across the road at Turkey Trace. Fire rings are dispersed throughout all primitive sites on main campground and in Turkey Trace. Store has ice, water, soda, limited camping supplies. Kayak rental and kayak shuttle service also available. Campground is kayak take-out point; we can shuttle you to drop-in point (subject to availability) Campground is on the Kentucky Adventure Trail Section 2 from Livingston to Newcomb. 30 minutes from Salt Peter Cave, One hour from Cumberland Falls, 20 minutes from Wildcat Mountain Battlefield. Only a 10-minute drive from I-75 exit ramp 49 to campground.



Rockcastle Riverside

Waitsboro Campground is located on beautiful Lake Cumberland in southern Kentucky. 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. 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. Facilities: The campground offers 17 RV sites, all with electric hookups, and five tent-only sites. Eight of Waitsboro's sites are on the waterfront, making them prime locations for weekend recreation. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water, laundry facilities and a dump station. A day-use area with a group picnic shelter and a parking area is also available. 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 Kentuckys only island state park. Burnside Marina is 10 minutes away, with boat rentals, a restaurant and general store. Activities: Boating, Fishing

Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area 

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. Facilities Bandy Creek combines the experience of traditional woods camping with the modern conveniences of flush toilets, hot showers and electric hookups. Sites can accommodate groups and both RV and tent camping. The campsites are spacious and provide picnic areas and plenty of shade. 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. ADA Access: N

Bandy Creek

Lake Cumberland RV Park

## 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 skiing are a big hit. A boat ramp and fish cleaning station are 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.

## Facilities

The campground offers single and double-family campsites, some of which have 20, 30 or 50-amp electric hookups. Some campsites overlook the lake.  
  
  
  
Flush toilets (one is accessible), two shower houses, drinking water and a dump station are provided. Firewood and ice are available for purchase. Educational programs are held during the summer.

[AmericanLL.com](http://www.AmericanLL.com)

## 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.

Holly Bay

Are you in need of a campground near Louisville, KY? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Louisville

The Best Camping Near Louisville, Kentucky

Lexington-Fayette is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Lexington-Fayette, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Lexington-Fayette

The Best Camping Near Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky

Searching for the best camping near Ironville, KY? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Ironville, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Ironville

The Best Camping Near Ironville, Kentucky

Looking for the best campgrounds near Meads, KY? Meads is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Meads

The Best Camping Near Meads, Kentucky

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Lexington, KY has a lot to offer. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Lexington campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Lexington, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Lexington

The Best Camping Near Lexington, Kentucky

Bowling Green, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Bowling Green campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Bowling Green camping trip.

Bowling Green

The Best Camping Near Bowling Green, Kentucky

Owensboro is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Owensboro is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Owensboro, reviewed by campers like you.

Owensboro

The Best Camping Near Owensboro, Kentucky

Looking for the best campgrounds near Hopkinsville, KY? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Hopkinsville, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Hopkinsville and user-submitted reviews.

Hopkinsville

The Best Camping Near Hopkinsville, Kentucky

Looking for the best campgrounds near Pleasure Ridge Park, KY? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Pleasure Ridge Park campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Pleasure Ridge Park, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Pleasure Ridge Park

The Best Camping Near Pleasure Ridge Park, Kentucky

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Paducah. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Paducah. Find the best campgrounds near Paducah, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Paducah

The Best Camping Near Paducah, Kentucky

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. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping Near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky

Daniel Boone National Forest, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Daniel Boone National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Daniel Boone National Forest

The Best Camping Near Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Kentucky camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky

Of the six parks in the Bluegrass State, Mammoth Cave is the only true national park. This area of southwestern Kentucky holds the best outdoor activities to be found in the state.

There are a large number of campsites across a few campgrounds, and Mammoth Cave Campground holds most of them. Both Mammoth Cave and Maple Springs Campgrounds are accessible for RVs. Backcountry camping is also available for interested hikers. The caves are, of course, the big draw, and no matter where you stay, you should take a cave tour. Since there are no nearby forests or BLM land, the best camping near Mammoth Cave National Park is fairly far away at the Green River Lake Wildlife Management Area. If you can’t get a spot in the park, staying in nearby Park City or Brownsville, KY, is the best choice.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Mammoth Cave National Park, KY has a lot to offer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Mammoth Cave National Park, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Mammoth Cave National Park, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Grayson Lake, KY has a lot to offer. Grayson Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Grayson Lake, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Grayson Lake

The Best Camping Near Grayson Lake, Kentucky

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Lake Cumberland. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Lake Cumberland

The Best Camping Near Lake Cumberland, Kentucky

Barkley Lake, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Barkley Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Barkley Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Barkley Lake

The Best Camping Near Barkley Lake, Kentucky

Join the fun near Buckhorn Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Kentucky camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Buckhorn Lake camping trip.

Buckhorn Lake

The Best Camping Near Buckhorn Lake, Kentucky

Join the fun near Dale Hollow Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Dale Hollow Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Dale Hollow Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Dale Hollow Lake

The Best Camping Near Dale Hollow Lake, Kentucky

Join the fun near Carr Creek Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Carr Creek Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Carr Creek Lake, KY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

THE BEST Walk-In CAMPING NEARBig South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky

Top Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Walk-In Campgrounds

Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground

Summer Shoals Retreat

Blue Heron Campground

True West Campground, Stables and Mercantile

Rockcastle Riverside

Waitsboro Campground - Lake Cumberland

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Bandy Creek

Lake Cumberland RV Park

Holly Bay

About Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Walk-In Camping

Walk-In Campgrounds in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky

Recent Walk-In Camping Reviews Near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

0 Reviews of 59 Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Campgrounds

See What We’re Up To