Best Tent Camping near Campton, KY

The Daniel Boone National Forest contains numerous tent camping options near Campton, Kentucky, including primitive backcountry sites and established campgrounds. The Red River Gorge Geological Area offers tent campsites along Tunnel Ridge Road with access to natural bridges and arch formations. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area provides free tent-only sites near Cave Run Lake in a less crowded section of the forest.

Tent campers at Red River Gorge must obtain permits, available for purchase at the Shell gas station in Slade for approximately $5 for three days. Most primitive tent sites lack amenities beyond fire rings, with no potable water available at backcountry locations. Vault toilets and trash disposal are typically limited to trailhead parking areas. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area features about seven tent campsites with pit toilets but no other facilities, and campers report varying site conditions. The forest floor provides natural padding for tents, though some areas become muddy after rainfall.

Tent-only areas throughout the region offer excellent access to hiking trails and natural features. The Red River Gorge attracts rock climbers to its sandstone formations, while tent campers at Paragon enjoy direct lake access for fishing and kayaking. Primitive tent sites along waterways allow campers to wade in shallow sections or launch small watercraft. According to one visitor, "Basic dispersed camping on Tunnel Ridge Rd is in the forest, so lots of shade. Many trails to view natural arches and bluff top river views." Another camper noted that Paragon Dispersed Camping Area is "right off the highway with boat-in access at most spots," making it convenient for tent campers seeking water activities. Weekday visits typically provide a quieter experience, as popular tent camping areas can become crowded on weekends, particularly during climbing season.

Best Tent Sites Near Campton, Kentucky (12)

    1. Red River Gorge Campground

    22 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    11 miles

    $10 / night

    "No fee, but you do need a permit which you can buy at nearby town. Camping is in the forest, so lots of shade. There is no water. Trash disposal and vault toilets at the parking lots at trailheads."

    "primitive and paid campsites both available, depending on your comfort level and preference."

    2. Red River Gorge Adventures

    8 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 663-1012

    $8 - $20 / night

    "The campsites are fairly primitive, only including a fire ring and a nice picnic table. They do not have any water or electric hookups and no cell service, which is all a plus in my opinion."

    "The spots were all primitive with rock fire rings. One site had a pic nic table. During our two night stay the other sites were all filled with families, so very kid friendly. Not a lot of amenities."

    3. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 784-6428

    "**The National Forest has hiking, multi-use trails, and boating (there is a ramp nearby). This is dispersed camping, meaning there are no amenities besides a pit toilet and a few fire rings."

    "We rolled up on a Tuesday night in mid-July and found the campground about ¾ full but still plenty of space for our little trailer."

    4. The Ole Cornfield

    9 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    27 miles
    Website

    "They provided a fire ring and a picnic table for us. The bathrooms are kept very clean and offers quality toilet paper and paper towels."

    "Justin our camp host stopped by that evening dropped us off a fire ring and firewood. (Also has picnic tables if you want one)this is included in the price of the campsite."

    6. HomeGrown HideAways

    3 Reviews
    Bighill, KY
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 986-3478

    $15 - $75 / night

    "Nestled in a narrow valley between high ridges of The Knobs, this campground gives the feel of secluded country living with your own trails and creeks to explore."

    "Instead of sleeping in it, which would have been perfectly comfortable, we actually used it as more of an extra shelter and we pitched out tents in the field in front of the Yome."

    7. Clay Lick

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    Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    23 miles
    Website

    8. North Fork

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    Clearfield, KY
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 858-1549
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Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Campton, KY

566 Reviews of 12 Campton Campgrounds



Guide to Campton

Tent camping near Campton, Kentucky offers a blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Some prices for tent camping range from $3 to $5

Tips for tent camping near Campton

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Campton, 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 Campton, KY?

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