Cabins in the Bighill region of eastern Kentucky rest within the foothills of Daniel Boone National Forest, where elevations range between 700 and 1,400 feet. The area contains established camping options around the Red River Gorge and surrounding woodlands, with peak cabin rental seasons running April through October when temperatures average between 60-85°F. Winter cabin options typically require guests to bring additional supplies due to seasonal service reductions.
What to do
Hiking and water activities: Short drives from Bighill cabins provide access to natural attractions and waterways. "There are hiking trails and dogs are welcome at the campground," notes a reviewer about Lago Linda Hideaway. "The trail around the lake was very nice, short but hilly so a good morning walk. It rained the first evening which led to some pretty little waterfalls the next day."
Outdoor sports courts: Some cabin properties include recreational facilities on-site. At Lota. Rocks- Land of the Arches Campground, one visitor appreciated the "hangar" social area, saying "Ping pong and pickleball courts keep everyone entertained. Good wifi is provided within the hangar." This creates space for activities during inclement weather.
Kayaking trips: Cabin rentals provide basecamp for water activities on local rivers. According to a Land of the Arches visitor, "LOTA is close to a lot of hiking trails and climbing. We did an 8-mile kayak down the Red River. Tons to do outdoors in this area of the Red River Gorge."
What campers like
Spacious cabin sites: Several properties offer cabins with ample outdoor areas. A reviewer at Holly Bay noted, "We got a double lot. G4 are the photos here. Electric and water on site. Clean bathrooms with showers in walking distance. Helpful staff. Stunning views. Great hiking paths."
Community spaces: Certain cabin campgrounds provide central gathering facilities. At Land of the Arches, one camper appreciated that "The hanger is an excellent place for hanging out and meeting new people" - making it suitable for solo travelers or groups wanting to socialize.
Lake views: Properties with water features rate highly among visitors. "I stayed in the red roof cabin which was small but pretty awesome. Full kitchen, bathroom, gas fireplace heater and loft w/three beds. Then there's the porch overlooking the little lake," reports a Lago Linda Hideaway guest, highlighting how water proximity enhances cabin stays.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Cabin options vary greatly in bathroom availability and quality. A Natural Bridge Campground visitor observed practical limitations: "There are only 2 men's and two women's shower/toilet rooms for the entire camp. During the week it was not an issue but the place got full on Friday night and having two toilets for each sec is not a good plan."
Grocery logistics: Plan shopping trips in advance when staying in cabin rentals. A Land of the Arches reviewer advises, "Buy groceries before getting to this campground. The nearest grocery store is a SAVE-A-LOT, 20 minutes away."
Payment requirements: Not all properties accept credit cards on arrival. One Holly Bay visitor reported, "We were a drive up, no reservation camper. They only took cash or check on-site."
Tips for camping with families
Check water safety: Cabin rentals near swimming areas require parental oversight. At Holly Bay, a visitor recommends, "Bring you boats, bikes, kayaks, fishing poles and bathing suits. The water is fantastic!" but parents should verify swimming conditions upon arrival.
Kid-friendly activities: Some cabin properties offer specific children's amenities. A Renfro Valley KOA guest shared, "Kids enjoyed the pool, Gaga ball, playground, jumping pillow, and passport activities. Overall an excellent stay!"
Terrain awareness: Cabin and tent sites often feature uneven grounds requiring special consideration. A Renfro Valley KOA visitor warned, "Entrance and exit are a bit steep, just take it slow," while another noted the campground entrance is "surprisingly steep" - important information for families with strollers or mobility concerns.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: RVers report some cabins share campgrounds with challenging RV sites. At Renfro Valley KOA, a camper detailed specific problems: "I have a 33 foot trailer and my sites 22-25 are on a hill. I could not pull through the site because of hill. Could not level trailer because when I got it level stairs and front stabilizers would not reach the ground."
Hookup locations: Check electrical connection placement when booking cabins or RV sites. One Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza) visitor noted the general conditions, stating "It is a climbers camp - open field camping or tent city. There are covered cooking areas and picnic tables to escape the rain."
Campground navigation: Some properties have challenging entry roads. Several Renfro Valley KOA reviewers mentioned the steep entrance, with one specifically warning "Big hill to get up to the KOA. Almost all paths are gravel."
