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Best Tent Camping near Burkesville, KY

747 Reviews

Tent campsites surrounding Burkesville, Kentucky offer primitive camping options along the Cumberland River watershed and Dale Hollow Lake region. Down Yonder Campground provides tent-specific sites, while Tuscarora Glade offers a highly-rated primitive tent camping experience with fire rings and toilet facilities. Halcombs Landing and Ryans Camp Ramp provide access to water-based activities with basic tent camping accommodations, though these areas primarily serve as day-use or boat launch facilities with limited overnight options.

Most tent campgrounds in the area feature minimal amenities, with varied surface conditions depending on location. Tuscarora Glade provides firewood and allows campfires, but lacks drinking water and electrical hookups. Many primitive tent sites require campers to pack in their own water and supplies. Hidden Ridge Camping offers spacious tent sites with picnic tables, drinking water, fire rings, and access to showers and toilets. Holleman's Bend Camping Area provides free primitive tent camping but without facilities. During summer months, sites can fill quickly, particularly those near water access points.

Tent campers in the Burkesville region benefit from dark skies ideal for stargazing, particularly at Tuscarora Glade, which holds a Dark Sky rating with minimal light pollution. The primitive tent sites at Holleman's Bend offer waterfront camping with morning fog views over the river, creating memorable experiences for tent campers. Sites vary from riverside locations to wooded settings providing different camping environments. According to one visitor, "Tuscarora Glade is perfect for primitive tent camping and laying back to look at the stars. You are surrounded by trees with a fabulous open spot to view the heavens." The region provides tent campers with access to fishing, hiking trails, and water recreation, with tent-only areas typically offering more seclusion than developed campgrounds.

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Best Tent Sites Near Burkesville, Kentucky (24)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Burkesville, KY

5 Photos of 24 Burkesville Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Burkesville, KY

747 Reviews of 24 Burkesville Campgrounds

  • Rebecca J.
    Jul. 10, 2021

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

    Pure gold for such an inexpensive price

    I think lots number 712 and 13 are the best because they are situated right around a beautiful pond with massive lily pads and dragonflies. It is about a 20 minute drive to a local store or a save a lot when we forgot some groceries. The trees are mature so there is plenty of shade and lofty space between each lot. We are on a paved site surrounded by gravel picnic table light post and fire ring also with a food storage bin to keep out the bears! It gets quiet! It gets dark! For $20, it is unbeatable. :-)

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2018

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

    What are you here for?

    Alum Ford Big South Fork Recreation Area is in my top 10 favorite areas.

    I try to participate in the Yamacraw Trail Run every year because it is just AWESOME, and this area is part of their route due to the excellent scenery of the area.

    If you like trees, hills, streams, falls, historical markers, old cabins and history , plus not much use of modern technology when you camp then you will thoroughly enjoy Big South Bend! If you are a bring the kitchen sink kinda camper you might wanna find a nearby KOA or other type campground.

    The campground has no signal, no electricity, no showers, no host. Just you, a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring. Oh, and there is one pit toilet. Bring 5$ cash for the honor pay station and your hiking shoes and watercraft. There is a Trailhead at the back of the 6 site campground and a boat ramp down the hill.

    The sites are well maintained and old , probably CCC built with wood steps leading up or down to your site. There is no direct access to the boatramp but there is a short trail that connects the sites to the boatramp that runs along the cliff face down to the ramp.

    The trailhead is part of the Sheltowee Trace Trail and connects to the Yamacraw Bridge. You could easily stage a multi day backpacking trip from Alum Ford to take in the local sights.

    Not far up the road is the Yahoo Picnic Area. I think it used to be a campground just by the way it’s set up. Picnic tables on pads and a nice old pavilion for groups with a grill. Past that Yahoo Falls. This is a technical, moderate trail down to the tallest falls in Kentucky. Also a very old area but maintained with newer restroom facilities. The loop trail was approximately 1.5 miles long with a metal staircase on one side and trail on the far side. This is also part of a thru trail. Get you an old fashion paper map before coming cause your fancy electronic gear may or may not work here.

    This is one of many areas through the Kentucky/Tennessee Big South Fork if you are able plan for an extended stay to check the whole place out;)

  • I
    Sep. 4, 2021

    Barren Fork Horse Camp

    Litter Ruins Great Spot

    We needed a spot for Labor Day weekend and discovered Barren Fork Horse Camp in Daniel Boone National Forest near Whitley, KY. There are lots of great hikes and natural bridges in the area to check out. We had no problem finding a site. The biggest negative is the amount of trash that was left in the fire rings and the litter strewn throughout the woods. This is a beautiful campground, but the litter was the worst we’ve ever seen. There is potable water available near the vault toilet buildings, but no electricity or dump station. There are no rules on generator use, so beware that your neighbor may run the generator all day and night. The price of the campground was $8 for one night/$12 for two nights. With just a little TLC, this could be a great place to camp.

  • Lori H.
    Aug. 4, 2019

    Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground

    Beautiful Night Sky, Quiet Camping

    Pickett State Park is a great spot to camp if you like peace and quiet, but don’t want to have to backpack in to a spot. Despite the small campground, it was pretty much empty on the first weekend in August when we stayed. It is near the Big South Fork, and Scott State Forest, so there’s lots of great hiking, horseback riding, river recreation, etc. nearby. From other reviews on The Dyrt, I learned the park is excellent for stargazing, and it is true, you will have amazing views at night, we slept in a tent without a rain fly, just so we could see the stars!

    The campground has several sites with electric and some without. We stayed in B1, which did not have electric. All the sites have picnic tables and fire rings, and the ones on the outside of the loops back up to the woods and trails. All the sites are spacious.

    The restrooms were clean, but they must be pretty old. There were some areas in need of tile repair, but it was just a cosmetic issue, so it didn’t bother me. The showers were nice, and everything was clean.

    The campground also has cabins, and those seemed to have more guests than the campground. They have a set of cabins that were connected, like apartments, and they have some larger, freestanding cabins too. They had a group site as well, but I did not go to it.

    The park has a lake with swimming area, and canoe/kayak/paddle board rentals, a swinging bridge, playground, tennis courts, a gigantic picnic area, and several great trails.

    This was a very pleasant find, and we will definitely return!

  • T
    Aug. 25, 2020

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

    Very Nice Campground

    We camped two nights last week in Loop A, the tent only, nonelectric section. Being mid-week, there were not many people, meaning it was also nice and quiet. The sites are roomy, with a large tent pad, fire ring, picnic table, lantern hook, and a food storage locker. Yes, this is bear country, but we didn't see any during our visit. The bath houses are as nice as you're likely to find in a national park, with flush toilets, hot showers, and an outside sink for dish washing, etc. There is also a large, wheelchair accessible bathroom with roll-in shower. A water hydrant is available to fill jugs and tanks.

    We drove through the other loops to see what they look like, because Loop A isn't open in winter. Should we decide to camp here in winter, Loop B is the only section open. But, that will let us use an electric heater. 

    Be aware that some things are not open in 2020 due to Covid-19. The park visitors centers are still closed, the swimming pool wasn't open mid-week, and the check-in building was unstaffed when we arrived. There was a sign at the check-in point telling us to reserve and pay for our site using Recreation.gov. We had cell service there, so no problem. It you don't have service, drive across the road to the Camp Store (which is not always open) to use WiFi there. There is a note on the front door with the password. 

    There are so many things to do in Big South Fork and surrounding areas that you really need to just visit the park website and make a list of things to do. Some are easy and roadside, others not so much. For example, to hike the Twin Arches Loop Trail, you'll drive several miles of dirt roads to reach the trailhead and end up hiking about 6 - 6.5 miles. The description says the loop is 4.6 miles, which is true, but you have to add another 1.4 miles for the out-and-back from the parking lot to the start of the loop. The loop trail isn't bad, but the access trail has steep stairs. Anyway, find something you like and enjoy the Cumberland Plateau.

  • Peg D.
    May. 1, 2019

    Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    Best weekend ever

    Loved staying at the mammoth cave state park last weekend. April 26th-28th 2019.

    No reservations are needed until May 1st. It was Walk up First come first serve from March through May. The last weekend of April was perfect and was not over crowded but had a good amount of visitors. We had perfect weather as well. The camp grounds are clean and nice looking , bathrooms also very clean and have normal toilets, laundry room had new washers and dryers and very roomy & clean with attached bathrooms & showers for men & women. The camp store was nicely set up and had plenty of foods and stuff Incase you forgot anything. However they do not sell real fire wood. They do sell compressed fire bricks. That Looks-like compressed sawdust bricks. So if you want real fire wood you have to go off trail and find it. Recommend and saw to cut it up but there was plenty of dead branches to be found through out the park and you are allowed to pick it up and burn it. The cave tours are fun and educational however if you lack fitness some of them will test your limits. So know your limits before booking. Highly recommend buying your tickets before you arrive as they fill up super fast and they offer more tours during the peak season than they do in spring.

    The lodge is nice has 2 restaurants one is sit down one is fast food snacks like setting. There are 5 gift shops in all between the camp store has 1 the lodge has 2 and the visitors center has 2. It’s worth the trip if your in to caving and hiking. Unfortunately there is lack of access to the river unless you go backwoods hiking/camping But all in all it’s a fun time!

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 20, 2018

    Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    Base Station

    Mammoth Cave Campground is in the country but centrally located between several nice size cities and right off I65.

    No signal once you get in the park except if your lucky at the lodge. We tuned in to WIFI whenever we passed through the Visitors Center/lodge restaurant in the morning.

    The campground is primitive, no electric with parking pads, picnic tables and fire rings. There is a restroom in the campground and a shower house, laundry room, post office and store adjacent. The dump station is next to that facility right outside the front “gate”.

    There is enough space between camp sites to have some privacy and the trees provide natural noise block and shade. There be critters in the woods so protect your food! You may see deer and turkey, you won’t see the little shit raccoon that runs off with dog toys and any food left out ;)

    There are several trail access points directly from the campground. Including two easy trails to the visitors center.

    Aside from the obvious, cave tours, there are several other options on how to spend your day and nights.

    If your coming for the cave specifically make sure you reserve your preferred cave tour way ahead of time!

    If you are coming for the trails, enjoy! There are multiple options. I run the trail near the visitor center year round. It is technical and hilly, not stroller friendly.

    The trails on the far side of the Green River ferry have dispersed camping sites and plenty of natural features to discover.

    The float down the Green River is enjoyable. If you bring your own water craft several of the companies will drive you to the put in from the ferry parking area for a nominal fee.

    Also across the Green River is the Maple Springs group and horse campground, I’m not a horse person but I see plenty of them in the area and they seem to be enjoying the trails and campground.

    There is also zip lines in the area, a winery and golfing.

    Fast food and Wally World in Brownsville, other touristy attractions one exit up at Cave City. (Ky Down Under and Dinosaur World, plus a Yogi Bear Campground)

    We spent the weekend hiking in the rain and avoided Green River, it’s a muddy mess right now.

  • Lori H.
    Aug. 28, 2019

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

    Ranger Review: GCI Freestyle Rocker Pro at Bandy Creek Campground

    Bandy Creek Campground is located in The Big South Fork National River and Recreation area on The Cumberland Plateau. Big South Fork is a great place for outdoor adventure. Some activities include hiking, horseback riding, rick climbing, tubing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, mountain biking, and just about anything else! The area is never overcrowded, even in the middle of summer. There are many scenic views throughout the area, so bring a camera!

    Campground review: Bandy Creek Campground is a great place! The sites are all spacious, and wooded for the most part, so you have plenty of space and some privacy. The campground seemed quite large, and was fairly empty for a Weekend in August. Some sites have food storage lockers (not sure if all do) as the area is a bear habitat. We saw some deer and turkeys, so there’s wildlife around for sure!

    There is tent loop, and a group camp area, and I believe the campground hosts several retreats.

    There’s riding stables at the camp store too. The campground also has a large swimming pool, with lifeguards.

    The restrooms were immaculate! Seriously the cleanest campground restrooms I believe I’ve seen. Ours had a filtered water bottle fill up fountain too.

    This campground is really nice, and quiet, but also has so much to do, I highly recommend it!

    Product Review: As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get to try out products sometimes, and today I’m trying out the GCI Freestyle Rocket Pro! https://www.gcioutdoor.com/camping-chairs/freestyle-rocker-pro/

    The Freestyle Rocker Pro is one of the best chairs I’ve used! It is actually much lighter than I expected, and is still extremely sturdy. Lightweight gear is a must when camping, or attending events!
    It has a carry handle so you don’t need to try to fit it in a case to have a strap like other chairs I’ve used. The Rocker was smooth on natural surface, pea gravel, and concrete. It is very comfortable, quiet, and relaxing. It folds up super easy with just a pull of the handle. One feature that I especially love is the cup holder and side pocket. It will actually hold a drink without spilling, and you can fit a phone, keys or other small items in the pocket. This chair is awesome! Two thumbs up!!

Guide to Burkesville

Tent campers visiting Burkesville, Kentucky can access several primitive camping locations surrounding the Cumberland River watershed. Most sites require self-sufficiency with basic supplies as amenities are limited throughout the region. Burkesville sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-90°F and winter lows often below freezing, making spring and fall optimal for comfortable camping experiences.

What to do

Fishing access points: Holleman's Bend Camping Area provides free waterfront camping with good fishing opportunities. According to one visitor, "I woke up early enough to see the sunrise and the fog coming off the river. Simply magical."

Local coffee exploration: Take a short drive from Holleman's Bend Camping Area to nearby towns. "Be sure to stop by the little town of Gainesboro for a cup of coffee at Nostalgic Coffee Cafe. They mixed together one of their favorite concoctions that wasn't on the menu and it was PERFECTION!" reports camper Devin R.

Wildlife observation: The bat activity at dusk creates unique viewing opportunities. "A nice mist hung on the water, and a swarm of bats began to make their way over us out to hunt for the night," notes one camper at Holleman's Bend.

Mountain biking trails: Pulaski County Park offers trail systems specifically designed for mountain biking. "The trails are varied and pretty cool. They twist and turn and cross creeks and hill tops," writes Shelly S. The park features "a lot of hiking and mountain bike trails" according to Bubby N.

What campers like

Spacious tent sites: Hidden Ridge Camping offers large, private tent camping areas. "These sites are spacious and secluded, the perfect spot for your next family adventure," notes Ashley F. The campground spreads across 53 acres of wooded land with hiking trails nearby.

Waterfront camping: Campers at Tuscarora Glade appreciate the well-maintained primitive sites. "This is one of my favorite spots to camp. The host is amazing, provides great amenities, and takes care of his campground very well," reports Joseph B. "If you are looking for a great view with plenty of space for tents and hammocks, look no further."

Disc golf course: Pulaski County Park offers an extensive disc golf course. "The disc golf will take you on quite a hike and to another parking lot and trailhead totally outside the park," explains one reviewer. The course provides both recreation and exercise.

What you should know

Cellular service limitations: Cell coverage is spotty or non-existent at many campgrounds. At Holleman's Bend, one camper noted "No Service (showed me how addicted i am)." Download maps and information before arriving as "you loose service 20 minutes out," advises Andrew K.

Campground layout confusion: Some parks have complex layouts that can be difficult to navigate initially. At Pulaski County Park, "The layout of the park is also confusing at times. I've been there several times and just recently found another parking area and trailhead," reports a camper.

Enforcement of stay limits: Free camping areas have length-of-stay restrictions. "Someone came and got my name and plate to make sure I followed the 14 day rule but was super nice," notes a camper at Holleman's Bend Camping Area.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: For families needing recreational facilities, Pulaski County Park provides multiple play areas. "There is several play ground areas close by for the kids to play," mentions Katie M. The park also offers "a basketball court, volleyball court, disk golf, and a small beach area."

Bathroom facilities vary widely: When camping with children, consider facility cleanliness. "Bathhouse; showers are so outdated and barley cleaned and just gross," warns Julie B. about one location. Sites with better restroom facilities include Hidden Ridge Camping, which provides both showers and toilets.

Water activities for children: Lake access points offer swimming options. Pulaski County Park has "great beach access" that's "quite and very clean," according to Lee-Ann R. The park also features "two different ramps on either side of the camp ground" for boat access.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for overnight stays: Many campgrounds near Burkesville are designed for longer stays rather than overnight camping. At Down Yonder Campground, one visitor noted they "have annual sites only, no shade on gravel. They are in the process of creating overnight sites." Consider calling ahead to verify availability for short-term camping.

Limited hookups at primitive sites: Most tent campgrounds lack RV amenities. "Considering how many big rigs and trucks I saw at Dale Hollow it will probably be busy during peak seasons," notes Shelly S. about Down Yonder Campground, suggesting that established RV campgrounds fill quickly while tent-only areas may offer more availability.

Road access challenges: Access roads can be difficult for larger vehicles. "Steep entry from road and no facilities," warns one reviewer about Down Yonder Campground, while others mention gravel roads leading to many of the best tent camping near Burkesville, Kentucky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Burkesville, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Burkesville, KY is Down Yonder Campground with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

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