Cabin camping near Campton, Kentucky centers around the Daniel Boone National Forest and Red River Gorge region, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,300 feet. The area receives approximately 47 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest conditions and numerous water features. Campsites typically close seasonally from late October through April, with some extending operations into November depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Kayaking on the Red River: At Red River Adventure, visitors can rent kayaks for $10 per person with transportation to put-in sites. "The kayaking was fun, despite obstacles in the river due to recent rains (and parts of the campground were also flooded)," notes one visitor who experienced the river during higher water levels.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds where guests can try their luck. "There is a small fishing pond, swimming pool, basketball court, and a playground. They are very close to Natural Bridge/Red River Gorge area," explains a camper who stayed at 4 Guys RV Park.
Rock climbing access: The region attracts climbers year-round with numerous established routes. "A true hippie haven and Appalachian favorite, the compound also boasts three covered shelters, a basement area for a relaxing hangout, a half court for basketball, and few token-operated shower stalls," reports a visitor about Red River Gorge Retreats.
Swimming spots: Several campgrounds offer swimming access during warmer months. "Taking a leap off the jumping rock should not be missed!! Camp amongst the tree line and branch out into the cool clear water on a hot summer's day," recommends a camper who visited Red River Gorge Campground.
What campers like
Community atmosphere: Red River Gorge Retreats draws outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the social environment. "The camp is in a beautiful spot for one of the cheapest prices I have seen around. The thing I liked the most was how all the people I ran into at the campsite were all really friendly and just good people," states one visitor who paid $3 per person per night.
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the spacing between camping spots at certain locations. "You camp on rock sites so it drains great if it rains. The sites are kinda secluded from one another by tree and bush lines," explains someone who stayed at Twin Knobs Recreation Area.
Natural features: The region's geological formations create unique camping experiences. "We were able to stay here for a week, tho the campowners were out, thus only the open field camping was available. The individual sites looked nice, some were a little close clustered, others had nice space between them," notes a Lago Linda visitor.
Cleanliness of facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses rank high with campers. "Very clean restrooms. Pool, fishing lake," reports a camper who appreciated the amenities at 4 Guys RV Park despite noting "Commercial campground, so sites are close without trees to separate."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "This time of year (October) this campground is walk up only. We got there as quick as we could and are glad we did as we were able to grab an awesome site," advises a camper about Twin Knobs Recreation Area.
Limited cell service: Communication can be difficult throughout the region. "We spoke with the father of the outgoing owner who gave us the gate code and we set up camp... there was no cell service," explains a camper at Red River Adventure, highlighting the connectivity challenges.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Lago Linda Hideaway offers clean bathrooms but availability depends on location within the campground. "The bathrooms are heated which was a nice touch since it snowed the other two days I was there. Everyone I saw were very friendly (as were their pets)," reports a visitor who stayed in early spring.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience higher noise levels, particularly on weekends. "Coin showers little to no shade climbers paradise 'dirtbags' everywhere great pizza!!" notes a Red River Gorge Retreats visitor, while another mentions "campers coming and going at all hours of the day/night."
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreational amenities: Natural Bridge Campground provides family-friendly facilities. "The staff was amazing, little games available like badminton, and very clean!" reports a satisfied visitor who brought children.
Consider seasonal timing: Early fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer insects. "I have camped here in the spring and summer. This was my first trip in fall. The weather was wet and cold, but it couldn't take away from the experience," explains a visitor to Twin Knobs Recreation Area who traveled with teens.
Check for kid-friendly swimming: Look for campgrounds with beach access or pools. "They have a small fishing pond, swimming pool, basketball court, and a playground. They are very close to Natural Bridge/Red River Gorge area," notes a camper from 4 Guys RV Park.
Scout out bathroom proximity: With children, bathroom location matters. "We stayed at site 11. It was at the end of the row and opened to a nice grassy area in front of the Bathhouse and Restrooms," shares a Natural Bridge Campground visitor, highlighting the convenient placement.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Zilpo Campground offers limited electric hookups. "Hookup was 30 amp. No water hookup but water is available onsite for your freshwater tank. Dump site also provided," explains a camper who needed to fill water tanks before setting up.
Site drainage: Consider the terrain when selecting sites. "We stayed June 5th through June 9th and it rained every day, a lot. Our campsite (A-30) drained the rain off really well," notes a Twin Knobs visitor who camped with two RVs on a double site.
Camp store supplies: Most campgrounds offer limited supplies. "Full hookups were SO nice. Great location near all Red River Gorge has to offer... lots of amenities at the camp store, fire pits and picnic tables at every site," states a 4 Guys RV Park visitor.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature gravel pads. "Sites are okay. We had one with trees so got some shade. Staff is friendly," reports a visitor at Natural Bridge Campground who stayed for five nights and appreciated the level sites.
