Tent camping near Canmer, Kentucky provides access to multiple locations within the Mammoth Cave National Park ecosystem. The Green River cuts through the park's limestone terrain, creating diverse riparian habitats that campers can explore. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions in the 60-75°F range with less precipitation.
What to do
Kayaking on Green River: The Green River through Mammoth Cave National Park offers paddling routes accessible from Houchin Ferry Campground. "We kayaked the Nolin and Green rivers. Both were very pretty! Recommend a trip on the Nolin," notes Micah N. from Houchin Ferry Campground. The route from Green River Ferry back to Houchin Ferry Campground spans approximately 11 miles.
Nature trail exploration: Beyond cave tours, the area offers hiking options. "The nature trail is a mile loop and has several benches along its route as well as scenic overlooks to the lake," writes Shelly S. about Narrows Boat Ramp, which includes a playground and pavilion area alongside hiking opportunities.
Fishing spots: Multiple waterfront locations provide fishing access throughout the region. At Halcombs Landing, "There were people fishing in several areas" with "picnic tables out along a break wall that offer some nice scenery with your picnic lunch," according to a reviewer.
What campers like
River proximity: Camping along the Green River offers both scenic views and temperature benefits. "Sites are right along the side of the Green River and the temperature here was a consistent 3 degrees F lower than in town," reports Overland 1. about Houchin Ferry, noting the natural cooling effect of waterfront locations.
Firefly viewing: Summer visitors to the area may witness impressive firefly displays. One camper at Houchin Ferry Campground described seeing "hundreds of lightning bugs" during a July visit, calling the experience "magical" and noting that "really made the experience so much better for us!"
Spacious sites: Many campsites offer room to spread out. Houchin Ferry Campground has "very spacious campsites" with "plenty of room for the kids or dogs to run around," according to camper reviews. Sites typically include concrete picnic tables, fire rings, and poles for hanging items.
What you should know
Porta-potty facilities only: Most primitive campgrounds in the area lack permanent restroom facilities. At Houchin Ferry Campground, expect "clean porta potty's" but no showers or running water. One camper noted they are "the larger style" and that "they are maintained well" with rangers making regular rounds.
Cellular connectivity: Limited signal affects most camping areas near Canmer. According to a review of Houchin Ferry, "no signal. Your phone will tease you with one bar and occasionally something might get through but it would be easier on your battery to just wait until you get into town."
Distance considerations: Some campgrounds require additional travel time to reach main attractions. "I arrived to find the campground pretty much empty, but a lot further from the main area of the park than I thought," writes one camper, noting Houchin Ferry is "about a 20-minute drive over to the caves and main hiking trails."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, sites near recreation facilities provide additional entertainment options. Narrows Boat Ramp includes "a marina on site along side the boat ramp and a nice pavilion, playground, nature trail and restroom," making it suitable for families needing additional activities.
Site selection for privacy: Not all sites offer equal seclusion or space. At Houchin Ferry, "Sites 1-6 were pretty close together. I would have picked site 8 if I had to go again," recommends one experienced camper, suggesting more distant sites provide better family experiences.
Weekend planning required: Popular camping areas fill quickly during peak periods. "It usually is first come first serve, but during Covid is reservation only. It fills up fast on the weekends," warns a camper about Houchin Ferry, suggesting families book in advance when possible.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Larger RVs face significant restrictions at most tent camping areas. Houchin Ferry sites are officially listed as "Tent Only" but according to one camper, "I got my Dodge van in no problem. In my 3 days here I saw many tents, a small pop up camper, and 2 vans. Anything larger would be a problem I think."
Cost considerations: For budget-conscious RVers with smaller rigs, national park campgrounds offer significant savings. "That means I could use my lifetime pass and it only cost $10 per night," notes a Houchin Ferry camper, contrasting with private campgrounds that can cost "as pricy as a hotel room."
Road access challenges: Access roads to some campgrounds present difficulties for larger vehicles. "Road in is paved and not bad, but has a few hills and is narrow," reports one RV camper, while another notes "steep entry from road" at a different location, indicating careful route planning is necessary.
