Best Tent Camping near Buckhorn Lake in Kentucky

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Buckhorn Lake? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Buckhorn Lake, KY (13)

    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)

    1. 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 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

    2. Red River Gorge Campground

    22 Reviews
    124 Photos
    378 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 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

    3. 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 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
    • No image available

      5. Gays Creek

      Be the first to review!
      2 Saves
      Hazard, Kentucky

      This recreation area is part of Buckhorn Lake

      • Tents
      Camper-submitted photo from HomeGrown HideAways
      Camper-submitted photo from HomeGrown HideAways
      Camper-submitted photo from HomeGrown HideAways
      Camper-submitted photo from HomeGrown HideAways
      Camper-submitted photo from HomeGrown HideAways
      Camper-submitted photo from HomeGrown HideAways

      6. HomeGrown HideAways

      3 Reviews
      22 Photos
      44 Saves
      Bighill, Kentucky

      You can spend a weekend in our Treehouse Yurt, experience comfort and seclusion in our Yome Away From Home, park your RV, pitch your tent, or hang your hammock.

      We are also available for your wedding, retreat, reunion, fundraiser, or festival.

      We are a farm in the mountains so be prepared to encounter INSECTS (mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers), WILDLIFE (deer, turkey, snakes, toads, and dare we mention the bear track we spotted one spring?), WEATHER (hot, cold, rain, snow), TOXIC PLANTS (poison ivy, stinging nettle, wild mushrooms), just to name a few.

      We DO NOT have internet or cell service, though we do have a phone for emergency use (trust us, your "people" aren't out here). Instead, we do encourage other forms of entertainment: instruments, hiking shoes, fishing poles, bubbles, hula hoops, etc.

      We also DO NOT have trash service. We will have recycling bins set up for plastic, cans, paper, and compost for your food waste, but plan to take your trash with you when you leave. We will have extra bags for those that forget. We also encourage you to bring your own dishes & cutlery to minimize excess trash as well.

      You're always welcome to try our home line before 9pm at 859.Yum.Dirt (986.3478), but the best way to catch us (usually) is via email at Jessa@HomeGrownHideAways.org.

      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Cabins

      $15 - $75 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Grove Boat-In Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Grove Boat-In Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Grove Boat-In Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Grove Boat-In Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Grove Boat-In Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Grove Boat-In Campground
      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

      8. Carr Creek Lake Shelters

      Be the first to review!
      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

        9. White Oak Boat-In Campground

        1 Review
        6 Saves
        Laurel River Lake, Kentucky

        White Oak Boat-In Campground is one of two boat-in campgrounds on [Laurel River Lake] on [London Ranger District]. The area is accessible by boat or by [Cold Rock School Trail] that begins near the [Marsh Branch Boat Ramp]

        The campground has 51 lakeshore campsites, most of which are located near the water's edge with boat moorings available. Sites have a tent pad, picnic table, fire ring and lantern pole. Self-serve pay stations, water and vault toilets are centrally located. There are no flush toilets or showers. The sites are wooded and spaced far enough apart to provide a sense of seclusion. The campground usually fills on weekends during the peak camping season.

        Trails nearby: [Cold Rock School Trail #430] (3-mile hiking and biking route into the White Oak Boat-In Campground) The campground is located on Laurel River Lake. The lake features 5,600 acres of clear, deep water and nearly 200 miles of tree-lined shore. The quiet coves and cliff-lined shores offer relaxation and quiet reflection, as well as boating, fishing, skiing and scuba diving in one of the deepest and cleanest lakes in Kentucky.

        • Tents
        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

        10. 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

      Show More
      Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds

      Recent Tent Reviews in Buckhorn Lake

      408 Reviews of 13 Buckhorn Lake Campgrounds


      • 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.

      • 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.

      • 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.

      • Patti W.
        Camper-submitted photo from Callie’s Lake and Campground
        Sep. 26, 2024

        Callie’s Lake and Campground

        NOT happy,

        Made reservations almost a month in advance, arrived on given day and could not level our RV on a very unlevel lot couldnt even get our steps to come out as they hit gravel. Tried to move the RV around for over an hour and finally went to the store to inform them of our trouble. We were told they had no other space for us, so we had no choice but to leave. This was NOT our choice, they did not deliver what they had promised, yet no refund, or even a partial refund was offered. 3 years being full time on the road, this was a first such experience, and their lack of concern made us not happy.

        .UPDATE Callie and I have talked and our issues have been resolved. We visited Callies Lake& Campground, no overnight stay

      • 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.

      • T
        Camper-submitted photo from Lago Linda Hideaway
        Jul. 18, 2024

        Lago Linda Hideaway

        The dyrt

        One key feature of The Dyrt is its extensive campground database, which includes over 44,000 campgrounds nationwide. This allows users to easily search for and discover new camping destinations based on location, amenities, and user ratings. The app also offers offline maps and filters for specific preferences such as pet-friendly sites, RV accessibility, and more.

      • Angie A.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Foot Campground
        Jul. 8, 2024

        Turkey Foot Campground

        Excellent find in the woods!

        Found the perfect spot for our trailer and our friends car camping. Clean vault toilets. Each site has fire ring and picnic table. Pack in pack out even though some didn’t get the memo yet park service was there in the morning to clean. Limited to no cell service.

      • 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!

      • 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.

      • 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.

      • AThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from S-Tree Campground
        Apr. 27, 2024

        S-Tree Campground

        Great Campsite!!!

        Bathrooms were clean. Campsite was clean. Campground very well maintained. So peaceful!! I have cell service with Verizon. I was able to make & receive calls. Internet signal was not the best, but I wasn't there for that anyway!

      • 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.

      • Jess S.
        Camper-submitted photo from Callie’s Lake and Campground
        Mar. 9, 2024

        Callie’s Lake and Campground

        Simple and Well Done

        Our first outing in our pop up. Camped in early March and Thursday we were the only ones at the water+electric sites, but many more came in on Friday.

        Straightforward facilities but well done with the bath house, roads, signage, and hookups. A quaint lake, good store, and wonderful pizza!

        We have Verizon and had 3 bars of LTE, but sometimes struggled to load rich content. As a remote worker I purchased 72 hours of WiFi for $20, which was great but only worked for 1 device.

        It’s not like some parks that is basically a parking lot, but I imagine it would feel crowded in peak season. We’d definitely come back and would aim for the lakeside spots.

      • DThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Renfro Valley KOA
        Nov. 12, 2023

        Renfro Valley KOA

        Mount Vernon, KY…Disappointed in KOA’s

        The office never seemed to be open. We needed propane upon leaving but couldn’t find anyone. Sites are small, not level and in need of some upkeep. The hookups were poorly placed and the electric hookup was loose. When we plugged in it recessed back into the unit and difficult to plug into. They were to pick up trash at 11 but by putting it b/4 11 I always seemed to miss it.

      • DThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Renfro Valley RV Park
        Nov. 5, 2023

        Renfro Valley RV Park

        Mt Vernon, KY…It was OK

        We arrived at 3 pm on a Friday and stayed 2 night. Have yet to see any employees. Our paperwork was ready and on the board in the front of the building. Sites are roomy, however the roads and sites could use updating. They go from paved to gravel. The laundry room had 3 washers with only 1 working. 2 dryers with only 1 working. We stopped twice for propane but the office door was always locked. They do have a playground for kids and a cute teepee. A small dog park. There was absolutely nothing level on any of these sites.

      • L
        Camper-submitted photo from Lago Linda Hideaway
        Oct. 18, 2023

        Lago Linda Hideaway

        Accessibility Adaptive Climber’s Festival

        As a frequent wheelchair and otherwise crutch user, I have enjoyed staying at Lago Linda two years in a row for the Adaptive Climber’s Festival. I was able to stay in one of the smaller structures in Bertie branch. Being near a restroom that has accessible options and having electricity right in the cabin, and sleeping in a bed, made things very comfortable. Being able to save my energy for enjoying nature makes staying here a priority.

        The lake area is beautiful and I was able to walk it on crutches.

        Having energy to be more active and be able to enjoy time with family and friends without being tired is priceless. Speaking of prices, Lago Linda is also cost-friendly for a disability budget.

      • 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! :)

      • D
        Camper-submitted photo from Leeman Field Park
        Oct. 3, 2023

        Leeman Field Park

        Quiet little campground.

        Great experience, the lady who took my booking was super helpful and friendly. Campground is quiet and feels very safe. Nestled nicely in the hills in the Pennington gap . Lots to do within easy driving distance. Overall a great experience

      • Colt C.
        Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
        Aug. 27, 2023

        Natural Bridge Campground

        NICE LOCATION BATHROOMS/SHOWER HOUSE NEEDS WORK

        Over all the stay was nice. Quiet and close to everything. Only complaint was they wanted us to buy wood their but the wood was to wet to even burn so I could use it. . Also the Bathrooms were pretty nasty and run down same with the showers.

        Blood under one of the toilet sees. Pretty nasty. Staff was pretty nice though and everyone was friendly

      • J
        Camper-submitted photo from Whittleton Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
        Aug. 7, 2023

        Whittleton Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

        Good camp

        Check in was simple, some sites bigger than others but even the smaller ones still fell like they have privacy. Sites fairly level good for rv or tents. Bathrooms are ok could be updated and made bigger or an extra added. Right across street is the park. Verizon is ok here couple bars that go in and out


      Drive Time


      Guide to Buckhorn Lake

      Tent camping near Buckhorn Lake in Kentucky offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.

      Tent campers should check out local activities

      Amenities that enhance your camping experience

      • Red River Gorge Campground provides essential amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, and showers, ensuring a comfortable stay.
      • At HomeGrown HideAways, campers can enjoy a community kitchen and clean facilities, making it a great spot for families.
      • Grove Boat-In Campground features picnic tables and trash disposal, allowing for a hassle-free camping experience.

      Unique features to explore while camping

      • The Red River Gorge Adventures campground is known for its proximity to the Red River, offering stunning views and opportunities for kayaking.
      • Wood Creek Lake Ramp is a great spot for those seeking a quieter experience, with access to beautiful lake views and fishing spots.
      • Experience the charm of Laurel River Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful setting surrounded by nature, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Buckhorn Lake?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Buckhorn Lake is Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza) with a 4.6-star rating from 19 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near Buckhorn Lake?

        TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Buckhorn Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.