Best Tent Camping near Blue River, KY

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Blue River? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Blue River. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Kentucky tent camping excursion.

Best Tent Sites Near Blue River, KY (12)

    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground

    1. Red River Gorge Campground

    22 Reviews
    124 Photos
    376 Saves
    Slade, Kentucky

    Red River Gorge Campground is known for its picturesque surroundings and range of outdoor activities. The campground is located in the heart of Red River Gorge, a geological wonderland with soaring sandstone cliffs, natural arches and deep gorges. The area is popular with hikers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous trails for all levels of experience, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking and fishing. Red River Gorge Campground provides a one-of-a-kind camping experience in Kentucky.

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

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)

    2. Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)

    19 Reviews
    36 Photos
    84 Saves
    Slade, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    3. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    43 Photos
    75 Saves
    Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

    Paragon is a primitive camping area with 7 designated campsites, some with lantern posts and fire rings. Alert: August 21, 2019 - The U.S. Forest Service opened a section of Paragon Road on Friday, August 16, 2019. The gate closest to Highway 519 was opened and motor vehicles will be able to drive to the first two loops commonly used for camping, swimming, and fishing. The new gate has been installed to allow vehicle access into the area while road work and repairs continue. The new gate will also allow the two camping loops to remain open when Cave Run Lake is 1.5 to 2 feet above summer pool and inundating the lowest portions of Paragon Road, which has occurred many times in the last decade and resulted in closure of the entire road and camping area. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your trip to this area. Learn more... The campground is located on the Cumberland Ranger District, Daniel Boone National Forest. Cave Run Lake is widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities. The lake is also the home of Kentucky's state record muskie.This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. Nearby facilities: Poppin Rock Boat Ramp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures

    5. Red River Gorge Adventures

    8 Reviews
    43 Photos
    94 Saves
    Slade, Kentucky

    The campground is on 10 acres of tree lined frontage on the Red River. There is a mix of trees/shade and open fields. It is a primitive campground, meaning that there are no power hook-ups or running water. There is an excellent canoe/kayak take-out. It's location in the heart of the Gorge makes it the perfect place for riverside camping and provides access to hiking trails.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $8 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area

    6. Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area

    1 Review
    8 Photos
    1 Save
    Pound, Virginia

    Overview

    Phillips's Creek Group Picnic area is a secluded site surrounded by forest. It is a great facility for family reunions, organization activities and other group events.

    Recreation

    Open lawn areas are adjacent to the picnic area can be used for activities such as horseshoes, sports and games (bring your own game and sports equipment). Hiking trails are available within easy driving distance and include Pine Mountain and Red Fox Trails. The Phillip's Creek Trail is near the picnic area.

    Facilities

    Parking is adjacent to the picnic shelters and restroom facilities. The restrooms are pit toilets. The toilets are adjacent to shelter #1 but are a short walk (850 feet) from shelter #2. A large charcoal grill is available at both shelters. Picnic tables are located inside the shelters. There is no electricity or drinking water available.

    Natural Features

    The picnic area is surrounded by forest. The North Fork of Pound Reservoir is nearby and is a popular boating and fishing destination.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Pine Mountain and Red Fox Trails are within easy driving distance.

    • Tents
    • Group

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Carr Creek Lake Shelters
    Camper-submitted photo from Carr Creek Lake Shelters
    Camper-submitted photo from Carr Creek Lake Shelters
    Camper-submitted photo from Carr Creek Lake Shelters
    Camper-submitted photo from Carr Creek Lake Shelters
    Camper-submitted photo from Carr Creek Lake Shelters

    7. Carr Creek Lake Shelters

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    6 Photos
    1 Save
    Vicco, Kentucky

    Overview

    Carr Creek Lake Shelters are located on Carr Creek Lake on the same side of Kentucky Highway 160 as Littcarr Campground. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in cooperation with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, manages the land and water at Carr Creek Lake for wildlife, fisheries and recreation.

    Recreation

    The 710-acre lake and surrounding area offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Boating and water skiing are popular activities on the lake. For the sportsman, fishing is an ever-present activity. Crappie, bass, bluegill and walleye are plentiful in the lake and provide hours of fishing enjoyment. Also, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife release trout in the tailwater throughout the summer months. Hikers can find a short nature trail, less than a mile long, in the Dam/Tailwater area. For a bit more adventure, the 6-mile Sugar Branch Trail begins at the dam and ends at Sugar Lake Road.

    Facilities

    A total of eight picnic shelters are open for use from April through September. The shelters are known as Dogwood, Holly, Laurel, Pin Oak, Poplar, Sycamore, White Pine and Willow. Each is accessible and equipped with electricity, grills, picnic tables and lighting. Each shelter can accommodate up to 200 people; However we are asking that the number of people at each site will be limited to 10 persons due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Willow, Pin Oak, White Pine and Dogwood are located at the Littcarr Recreation Area, offering access to a boat ramp, playground, horseshoe pit and shoreline fishing. Sycamore and Poplar are in the Dam/Tailwater Area, with a horseshoe pit, large playground and volleyball courts nearby. Laurel and Holly are at the marina, where guests have access to a boat ramp, playground, horseshoe pits and accessible fishing pier. Restrooms are located near all shelters.

    Natural Features

    Carr Creek Lake is located in the mountainous region of southeastern Kentucky, about 16 miles from Hazard and 18 miles from Whitesburg. The dam is located 8.8 miles above the mouth of Carr Fork, a tributary of the North Fork of the Kentucky River.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table

    $60 - $80 / night

    • No image available

      8. Pleasant Ridge

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      1 Save
      Adams, Kentucky

      This recreation area is part of Yatesville Lake

      • Tents
      • No image available

        9. Lawrence County Recreation Area

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        Adams, Kentucky

        This recreation area is part of Yatesville Lake

        • Tents
        • No image available

          10. Gays Creek

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          2 Saves
          Hazard, Kentucky

          This recreation area is part of Buckhorn Lake

          • Tents
        Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

        Recent Tent Reviews in Blue River

        444 Reviews of 12 Blue River Campgrounds


        • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
          Oct. 19, 2024

          Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

          Beautiful location just off a paved road

          We came in on a Friday late afternoon and there were only a few camping sites available. We found a spot right on the lake.

          Our first morning a heron was fishing in the lake less than 100 feet from us. We saw him catch a fish. There were woodpeckers, hawks and several other birds I did not recognize.

          The view of the lake from our camp site was amazing. Very picture worthy!

          The campsites are pretty close together providing less than optimal privacy. Some of the campers stayed up late but they kept the noise level down.

          While there we saw one group hang a deer carcass in a tree. Good times!

        • S
          Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
          Oct. 12, 2024

          Natural Bridge Campground

          Not as advertised

          The amenities are not worth the price. The bathrooms are not clean. We paid for a campsite that had water and electric but we had to share water with another site. Luckily there were a splitter available. The sites in the 30s look like they may be spacious but you are on top of one another.

          The 5 star review on here is regarding the state park camping, not this site. Would not return.

        • Ashley P.
          Camper-submitted photo from Falls Campground
          Oct. 1, 2024

          Falls Campground

          Great spot.

          The people that work here are so very nice. I love the relaxed chill atmosphere. I always come on a Sunday or a weeknights it is pretty empty and the campsites are too close together for me to go on a weekend. I think the sites should be less than $40 on a slow night but I still love it here.

        • TThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Dam Campground
          Sep. 19, 2024

          Buckhorn Dam Campground

          Ghost Town

          The map for this campground isn’t quite accurate. Also, the price is $24 p/ night not $14. Not quite what we were looking for.

        • Chaz M.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
          Sep. 12, 2024

          Natural Bridge Campground

          A lot to do

          There is so much to do nearby. Awesome stores and adventures. Campground has WiFi, fishing for kids, and is in a great location.

        • Todd C.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Yatesville Lake State Park Campground
          Aug. 5, 2024

          Yatesville Lake State Park Campground

          Still a favorite

          We had a great time as usual. Nice, quiet and overall clean. Our fire pit was dirty with trash and looked like it had been ran over or something which is surprising for the park.

        • Jeremiah S.
          Camper-submitted photo from Chief Logan State Park Campground
          Jul. 8, 2024

          Chief Logan State Park Campground

          Lots to do

          Chief Logan has a lot of interesting things to see, including an outdoor animal exhibit, a lodge, a pool, a theatre, and a museum all close together.

          Our site was full hook up and very level. There was creek nearby and walking paths all over. We went over to the lodge and was able to swim in the pool and hot tub as part of the price of our campsite. There was solar event with super rare aurora light show for this part of the world while we were there.

        • Jennifer M.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
          Jul. 7, 2024

          Zilpo Campground

          Beautiful campground

          Quiet, less utilized campground on Cave Run Lake. Campsites have more privacy and are more primitive. There is a bathhouse, but it is not regularly maintained. This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing. Some of the campsites have private beaches.

        • David B.
          Camper-submitted photo from Grayson Lake State Park Campground
          Jun. 30, 2024

          Grayson Lake State Park Campground

          Very beautiful

          This place is very beautiful first and foremost. You can fish, rent boats and kayaks. Also the hiking isn’t to bad! They even have tennis courts and a small water park.

        • Katrin M.
          Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
          Jun. 23, 2024

          Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

          Very nice campground

          We camped here over the weekend in a double campsite. It was very spacious and clean. The site had 2 picnic tables, 2 lantern poles, and and a fire pit. Everything was leveled, so the tent set up was really easy. The campground is very well maintained. Some sites have stairs in order to reach the tent pads. There is a bathhouse with flushing toilets and nice showers. They also have pit toilets, which I never used. There are several trails, that start from the campground. The area is absolutely stunning, but it was extremely hot, so we couldn't do too much hiking. But the plan is to return in fall.

        • J
          Camper-submitted photo from Jenny Wiley State Park Campground
          Jun. 14, 2024

          Jenny Wiley State Park Campground

          Needs to be updated and repaired

          Roads in campground are rough in places. Electrical boxes are in rough shape at some sites. 30 amp kept tripping the breaker. WiFi does not work. Several sites have full hookup but sewer hookups need to be repaired and water hookups are far away.

        • Ashlee G.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Woodstock Campground
          Jun. 8, 2024

          Woodstock Campground

          Our fave primitive camp in the RRG!

          We LOVE Woodstock! Such a beautiful, open, peaceful property and each site has its own handmade benches and firepit. Literally right off the road for Red River Gorge so you’re 10 minutes from creation falls, sky bridge, chimney top rock, etc. Also right down the road from Sky Station and The Brick for beers, ice cream and coffee. Also just 15 minutes from the amazing Muir Valley climbing area. Literally couldn’t ask for a better location for a weekend in RRG. Not to mention how peaceful it is, away from the hustle and bustle of the other camps in Slade.

          Ronnie is the kindest host, very considerate and welcoming. He helped us when we pulled in to guide our big rig to the best spot (35 foot camper). He has tent sites and space for RVs but it is primitive camping so be prepared - no water or bathrooms available. Oh and cash only!

          We can’t wait to be back. Thanks Ronnie!

        • p
          Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Camping and Fishing
          May. 31, 2024

          Wildcat Camping and Fishing

          Very Nice Place

          We have been here for a little over a month now. Nice level gravel sites with grass around them. Full hookups 30/50A at each site. Wifi. Could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels. There is a paylake with small shelter areas, playground, horseshoe pit, game room, community gathering area, store with snacks, drinks, tackle and other items. There are restrooms, but no showers or laundry. Beautiful area. About 11 miles to Paintsville, which has all the stores you'd need. Some closer convenience stores. Johnny and Regina, the owners, couldn't be any nicer. Very good monthly rates. Can receive mail and packages.

        • B
          Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
          May. 27, 2024

          Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

          Well Maintained Campground in RRG

          We stayed here while some of our group did some rock climbing in the area.  The camp staff was super helpful and offered to rearrange a few sites that were open so that our tents would fit better.  It was during the week, so not all of the sites were full which gave him some flexibility.   Some of the sites in the RV area are pretty small so do some checking when you select.

        • RThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
          May. 25, 2024

          Natural Bridge Campground

          Okay

          Sites are okay. We had one with trees so got some shade. Staff is friendly. The restrooms didn’t get cleaned the entire 5 nights we were here. The floor was swept but the same dead fly on the sink was there all week too. 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, especially if two men want to shower leaving no men’s facilities until they’re done. Probably would not return.

        • David A.
          Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
          May. 9, 2024

          Zilpo Campground

          Wonderfully Quite Place

          Stay 6 nights, very peaceful and quite place, this time of year! Campground empty, no one there. Beautiful sites, large, all fine gravel and paved pull offs, very nice! Bathrooms could use a update, easily Lot’s of bug in May, but huge amount of ticks 🕷️ Campground sets back off main road about 10 miles, so no traffic noise at all. Has boat lunch, beach, camp store, 2 dump stations, 7 loops host at most of them, very nice people. We had great time, will defiantly be back to stay again!

        • Lucy P.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
          May. 6, 2024

          Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

          Excellent little campground!

          One of the best forest service campgrounds I’ve stayed in. Beautiful and well maintained, lots of great hiking trails leaving directly from campground.

          A lot of sites are too slanted for a van or RV, but amazing for tent camping. If you’re staying in a vehicle I recommend doing first come first serve or extensive research. The more slanted sites also are much more secluded - we couldn’t even see our neighbors most of the time. Unfortunately sound echoes so you can hear everything.

          No hookups and super shady so solar is difficult. Was on Verizon extended network and had hotspot service from at and t and t mobile.

        • p
          Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Camping and Fishing
          Apr. 2, 2024

          Wildcat Camping and Fishing

          Added Campsite to the app

          Haven't been there yet.Campground wasn't in any of the apps. Just called and made reservations for 3 months. Very nice on the phone. No problem for us with 36' fifth wheel and a dog.

        • Jeremy K.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
          Mar. 24, 2024

          Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

          Nice little campground

          We stayed a weekend at Middle Fork. Nice campground. Spaces are pretty tight. Has a creek stocked with trout. Bathhouse was clean. Staff was sit friendly. Make sure bring extra power cord and water hose. The hookups are not located on the correct side at each site. All and all it is a nice place. Good place for kids to ride bikes. Most sites are pretty level.

        • DThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Bruin Creek
          Mar. 19, 2024

          Bruin Creek

          Tranquil Off Season

          This place is great. Came in off season in March, not expecting much. Many camps closed for season. It was beautiful, quiet, with running water and bbq pit at sites and hot showers in the bathroom. Perfect for a short stop over on x-country trip or offseason enclosed camping.

        • Raquel R.
          Camper-submitted photo from Chief Logan State Park Campground
          Oct. 23, 2023

          Chief Logan State Park Campground

          Lots to do!

          Beautiful, quiet spot. The staff was very easy to work with and very friendly. The wildlife exhibit is a fun detour ($2/person). We saw a water slide, putt-putt, and enjoyed the restaurant at the lodge. They have tours for the local elk there too. The town itself is cute and we enjoyed a date night at the local steakhouse. Great spot, perfect getaway!

        • Connie C.
          Camper-submitted photo from Pappy's Creekside Camp
          Oct. 18, 2023

          Pappy's Creekside Camp

          Absolute Terrible Experience

          I would give it a zero if possible. The cabin we stayed in was absolutely filthy-dirt and dead bugs on the floor, coffee pot was nasty, extremely small counter was dirty, no access to running water(no even a sink in the bathhouse) and I could go on but I think you get the point. The bathhouse looked like a shed and was also dirty. Were told there were groups going out every weekend, all day long and also night riding. Trails are not marked so you really can't go out on your own. We paid for 3 nights, but only stayed for 2. And of course, we were never offered a refund or partial refund. Like Share

        • CThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area
          Oct. 12, 2023

          Twin Knobs Recreation Area

          Beautiful Area

          Stayed on the F Loop next to the lake, fire pit, picnic table, level tent site and bathroom showers a short walk. Camp hosts very friendly and helpful. campsite are close together.

        • M
          Camper-submitted photo from Red River Adventure
          Oct. 4, 2023

          Red River Adventure

          Very well maintained, fun, and great campground!

          We love this campground! Had a great time here, the staff was friendly and helpful and kind and it felt extremely remote and secluded and private too! The campsites are very large and spacious - they have firewood and porta-potties on site and its right along the river. Our favorite campsite in the gorge - especially because it has no cell service! :)



        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Blue River, KY?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Blue River, KY is Red River Gorge Campground with a 4.9-star rating from 22 reviews.

        • What is the best site to find tent camping near Blue River, KY?

          TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Blue River, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.