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Best Campgrounds near Carlisle, KY

739 Reviews

Carlisle, Kentucky provides access to several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, including Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park and Zilpo Campground in Daniel Boone National Forest. The area features a mix of camping styles from tent and RV sites to cabin accommodations, with most developed campgrounds offering electric hookups, water access, and basic amenities. State parks in the region typically maintain well-marked sites with picnic tables and fire rings, while national forest campgrounds offer a more rustic experience with fewer amenities but greater proximity to hiking trails and natural features.

Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, with many campgrounds operating from April through October. "We originally were going to stay at Twin Knobs Campground, but after some research, we decided to switch the reservation to Zilpo. Having recently moved to Kentucky from California was so happy to get to camp in another season besides summer," noted one visitor about the Daniel Boone National Forest camping options. Weather patterns in central Kentucky include humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F and mild winters, though occasional snow and ice can make access difficult from December through February. Most developed campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays, with some state parks implementing minimum stay requirements during peak periods.

Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty and recreational opportunities available near Carlisle-area campgrounds. The proximity to water features stands out in visitor experiences, with several campgrounds offering access to lakes, rivers, or creeks for swimming, fishing, and boating. A camper described the area as "one of the most beautiful and well hidden gems of the region" with "seemingly endless trails" for hiking and exploration. The Kentucky Horse Park Campground, located about 30 miles west of Carlisle, receives positive reviews for its spacious sites and convenient location near both Georgetown and Lexington. Campgrounds in the Daniel Boone National Forest tend to attract visitors seeking more seclusion and natural surroundings, with Zilpo and Twin Knobs offering particularly scenic waterfront camping areas on Cave Run Lake.

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Best Camping Sites Near Carlisle, Kentucky (81)

    1. Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park

    16 Reviews
    Carlisle, KY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 289-5507

    $22 - $34 / night

    "This Park off Ky68 outside Lexington, Ky was a nice, informative stop over enroute back home."

    "There are two walk-in sites (10 & 51). Both were pleasant, nearly level, close to amenities, but were under no shade."

    2. Kentucky Horse Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Georgetown, KY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 259-4257

    $45 - $48 / night

    "I'll preface this with the fact that I am a Lexington, KY Native and have always lived close to the Kentucky Horse Park and Kentucky Horse Park Campground, but have never stayed there until this weekend"

    "Clean bathrooms and sites, within easy walking distance to the Kentucky Horse Park. Pay attention to which site you pick- if you’re in c loop, it’s a long walk to the bathroom!"

    3. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 768-2722

    $28 - $94 / night

    "Having recently moved to Kentucky from California was so happy to get to camp in another season besides summer."

    "E-12 was close enough to the bathrooms that it wasn’t a bad walk but we didn’t have to smell anything. Water pump was across from the campsite. Plenty of space for four tents. Sturdy pic-nic table."

    4. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    42 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 780-7818

    $31 - $128 / night

    "Stayed here for one night on a road trip to the Great Lakes. It’s basically in the middle of nowhere but nestled nicely on a lake with pretty water and nice scenery."

    "It is close to the water. We left our boats down on the bank. You have a "private" restroom and shower house. Occasionally you will get a hiker or someone coming through the trails that will use it."

    5. Whispering Hills RV Park, Inc

    25 Reviews
    Georgetown, KY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (502) 863-2552

    $36 - $46 / night

    "Stayed here for 5 nights while attending an equestrian event at the Kentucky Horse Park. The staff at the park are really helpful & friendly.  "

    "About 30 minutes away from the Ark. Easy trip on I75, about 30 minutes. Some level sites, but most seem to have a slope."

    6. Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Winchester, KY
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 527-3454

    $39 - $45 / night

    "We really liked this campground and kayaking on the Kentucky River is great. Tons of activities for the kids and even adults."

    "Fort Boonesborough SP is near I64 and I75 Between Lexington and Richmond , Ky. The Kentucky River is adjacent. I remember watching Daniel Boone in black and white when I was a kid."

    7. Kincaid Lake State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Falmouth, KY
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 654-3531

    $22 - $35 / night

    "We were THRILLED to leave our cicada-infested northern Kentucky home and find that this park was blissfully free of Brood X cicadas. It was so peaceful, and we were able to fully enjoy the outdoors."

    "Primitive tent camping is back in its own little part of the park near the lake (there are a few lakeside sites if you have a small kayak or raft to use while there) and while we liked the privacy the"

    8. Hidden Lake Farm Camp

    4 Reviews
    Georgetown, KY
    21 miles
    Website

    $50 / night

    "If I recall correctly, pets are allowed, but they must be leashed at all times since there's farmland nearby."

    9. Three Springs Campground

    17 Reviews
    Sadieville, KY
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 823-0258

    $40 - $60 / night

    "We decided to come to Kentucky to visit the Ark and the Creation Museum. I found this little campground by joining The Dyrt. Three springs, was the best choice this summer."

    "Final approach/exit to the park is very steep. Beautiful sites but fairly close together. Gravelled roads and pads surrounded by forest with three small streams cutting through."

    10. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    44 miles
    +1 (606) 663-8100

    $24 - $36 / night

    "We've some spent time now in Kentucky and Red River Gorge area is one of favorites in this state. The campground is good pretty simple."

    "It is located just off Exit 11 on the Bert T Combs Parkway (the highway that runs through the area, which is a beautiful drive itself)."

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Recent Camping Photos near Carlisle, KY

220 Photos of 81 Carlisle Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Carlisle, KY

739 Reviews of 81 Carlisle Campgrounds

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Nice spots on the Ohio River

    We had a riverfront site. The camp hosts are very nice and attentive to your needs. We will return

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Kentucky Horse Park Campground

    Beautifuly kept and right next to the amazing horse park

    We spent two nights here and were pleasantly surprised that most of the campsites had probably at least 50 to 60 feet between each one and lots of grass and trees. The campsite we stayed in, 140, was a pull through so that was bonus. Most of the campsites look like they had at least water and electric and I think there might have been some sites that had sewer as well. Right next-door to the Kentucky Horse Park, which is a must see. Very interesting museum and lots of barn with different types of horses in them to visit. If you buy your ticket at the campground, you would get five dollars off the admission fee.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Elkhorn Creek RV Park

    Wonderful place to stay with easy access to the Bourbon Trail and Frankfort

    We stayed for several days so that we could visit distilleries on the Bourbon Trail. Frankfort is almost close enough to bicycle to. Lexington is less than an hour away. It was a great base for visiting many interesting places.

    Elkhorn Creek RV Park was fantastic. The sites were clean and everything worked. The staff was super friendly. We stayed in a creekside site so we had a little bit of scenery. It is a pretty urban place, not a state park, so we didn't expect it to be as pretty as it turned out to be.

    The pool was plenty warm. The bathroom was clean. The classic rock singer who came in and sang in the pavilion on Saturday night was fun.

  • Amanda W.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Elkhorn Campground

    Quiet & friendly

    I stayed here for 2 weeks while visiting family in the area. Very safe & quiet campground with very friendly staff.

  • Rhonda B.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    The Landing at Bear Creek RV Park

    Best full time campground on the Ohio River!

    We are full-time RVers and this is by far the best park we've stayed at! It's peaceful and beautiful, everyone (especially Management) is so friendly and fun! The laundry facility is one of the greatest amenities as we've stayed other places without one, so we truly appreciate it! The splash pad is fantastic for children and adults alike! There's a dog park, and a kids kangaroo jump pad as well. The view of the river is beautiful! On weekends there's entertainment and/or cornhole tournaments to bring everyone together. The park is maintained perfectly and I've enjoyed calling it home! By far the best park in Southern Clermont County! Must see!

  • Joshua R.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Kentucky Horse Park Campground

    Nice place

    Clean and quite. Nice bathrooms. Great place if you want to go the the horse park. Not far from Lexington.

  • Robert H.
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Northern Kentucky RV Park

    Nice place to stay on the way price is priced accordingly on the high side

    Very nice attendant helpful even tried to help me find a lower priced campground but the others were full

  • Amanda W.
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Elkhorn Creek RV Park

    Nice location, friendly staff

    Make sure you take the exit they tell you & do NOT follow gps or you’ll go down a long country road. Nice little family owned campground on Elkhorn Creek. Convenient to Frankfort, Georgetown & Lexington. Waterfront sites available, many concrete sites & some gravel sites. From what I hear, they have made many improvements and continue to do so. I believe most sites are full hookup & they are building cute little pergolas on several sites. I had a long, gravel pull thru site. Barely any room on the camp side but both ends were roomy. Cute little general store & a very clean little laundry building w/a change machine. Fire rings on all sites that I saw. I believe there are 2 play areas for kids & a pool. There is a dog park w/a side for large dogs & small dogs. It was shaded and had seating. Convenient to several distilleries including Buffalo Trace & Woodford Reserve. There’s a place nearby that rents kayaks and canoes. They have entertainment & a food truck on weekends.

  • John S.
    Jul. 12, 2025

    The Landing at Bear Creek RV Park

    Worst RV park.

    Worst RV park I stayed at. By the way, it’s managed. People are living in sheds. When you there they don’t keep up on your lawn as cutting the grass and getting the weeds. Just not a place I will take my family again.

Guide to Carlisle

Camping near Carlisle, Kentucky, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: The area is rich in trails and natural beauty. Campers at Koomer Ridge Campground enjoy the numerous trails that start right from the campground. One reviewer mentioned, "There are several trails that start from the campground," making it easy to get out and enjoy nature.
  • Fishing and Kayaking: If you love water activities, Zilpo Campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing. A visitor noted, "This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing," highlighting the fun you can have on the water.
  • Visiting Historical Sites: Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground offers a glimpse into history with its nearby fort. One camper shared, "The park appears to get pretty soggy following any rains," but the historical aspects make it worth a visit.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Carter Caves State Resort Park, one reviewer said, "Staff cleans the bathhouse every hour," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, like Twin Knobs Recreation Area, offer large, level sites. A happy camper mentioned, "Good level spots. Quiet the first week of April."
  • Friendly Hosts: The hospitality at campgrounds is often highlighted. At Sandy Springs Campground, a visitor said, "The owners are so hospitable, that you feel like family!"

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, do not have electric hookups. A camper noted, "No hookups and super shady so solar is difficult," so plan accordingly.
  • Noise Levels: Campers at Natural Bridge State Park have mentioned noise from nearby roads. One reviewer said, "Biggest downside is the noise from the big trucks going up and down the hill."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, like Zilpo Campground, are only open from April to November. Be sure to check the season before planning your trip.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. At Sandy Springs Campground, one parent shared, "My kids were busy nonstop with planned fun activities!"
  • Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Sites with nearby playgrounds or open spaces are great for kids. Kentucky Horse Park Campground has amenities like a pool and playground, making it a hit with families.
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and games for family bonding time. A camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park mentioned, "We plan to return because two nights was not nearly enough to do all the things we wanted to."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Many RVers recommend checking the levelness of sites before booking. A visitor at Big Bone Lick State Park noted, "Most of the sites will require some extra leveling."
  • Be Prepared for Hookup Issues: Some campgrounds may have distant hookups. A camper at Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground mentioned, "The water hookup was on the opposite of the camper from the electrical hookup."
  • Explore First-Come, First-Serve Options: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, which can be great for spontaneous trips. A reviewer said, "We camped one night and thoroughly enjoyed it!"

Camping near Carlisle, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Carlisle, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Carlisle, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 81 campgrounds and RV parks near Carlisle, KY and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Carlisle, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carlisle, KY is Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park with a 3.9-star rating from 16 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carlisle, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Carlisle, KY.

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