Best Camping near Carlisle, KY

Carlisle, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Carlisle is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Carlisle, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Carlisle, KY (80)

    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Horse Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Horse Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Horse Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Horse Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Horse Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Horse Park Campground

    1. Kentucky Horse Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    70 Photos
    169 Saves
    Georgetown, Kentucky

    Come out, relax and enjoy the complete resort atmosphere of the Kentucky Horse Park Campground!

    A full service facility, our campground has many extras for your comfort including a grocery store/gift shop and two bathhouses with modern conveniences. During your stay, be sure to take advantage of our tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts, cool off in our junior Olympic-size swimming pool and participate in our planned activities.

    For those seeking to stretch their legs a little more, venture out on the Legacy Trail, a 12-mile-long (8.5 miles is currently finished) paved walking and biking trail leading from the Kentucky Horse Park Campground to downtown Lexington.

    Campers may also visit the world famous Kentucky Horse Park at a discounted rate and receive free parking with the purchase of their admission tickets when purchased at the Campground Store.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground

    2. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    256 Photos
    279 Saves
    Salt Lick, Kentucky

    Overview

    Zilpo, a large, fun-filled campground on Cave Run Lake, is a prime destination for families. The scenic campground offers a cabin rental, tent camping, RV sites with electric hookups and a selection of lakefront sites. Views of the lake are enjoyed by those who relax on the sandy beach. Tater Knob, a fire tower open to the public, is nearby, offering outstanding views of the area.

    Recreation

    Water skiing and swimming are wonderful ways to enjoy the lake. Muskie, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish attract avid anglers. Hikers are fans of the Zilpo Mountain Loop Trail that extends for 2.25 miles, connecting to a network of other trails around the lake. Nature programs are regularly scheduled during peak season and wildlife watching is rewarding.

    Natural Features

    Zilpo sits on a peninsula in the middle portion of Cave Run Lake at an elevation of 800 feet. The lake spans 8,270 acres with soft, sandy beaches. The campground is shaded by a stand of mixed hardwoods, and campsites have good privacy.

    Nearby Attractions

    The nearest community is 12 miles away.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $85 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    4. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    40 Reviews
    131 Photos
    236 Saves
    Salt Lick, Kentucky

    Overview

    Nestled on the shores of Cave Run Lake, this camp is part of the larger Twin Knobs Recreation Area. There are more than 200 sites spread out over 10 loops under a dense forest of mixed conifer and deciduous trees. The recreation area includes two reservable group picnic areas. Group camping is also available.

    Recreation

    Summer amphitheater programs and scheduled campground activities provide family fun and entertainment. The campground also has volleyball courts, basketball hoops and horseshoe pits. There is a boat ramp and beach. Popular lake activities include fishing, swimming, motor boating, windsurfing, sailing and water skiing. Scenic foot trails include the 2.5-mile Twin Knobs Shoreline Trail and the 1.5-mile Knob Overlook Trail.

    Natural Features

    The Daniel Boone National Forest embraces some of the most rugged terrain west of the Appalachian Mountains. The forest lies within the Cumberland Plateau, where steep forested slopes, sandstone cliffs and narrow ravines characterize the land in this region. Cave Run Lake is in the Cumberland District in the northernmost part of the forest. The lake is surrounded by the rolling hills of northeastern Kentucky.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Morehead Office Visitor Center offers information about the Daniel Boone National Forest in addition to interpretive exhibits. A popular attraction within the Daniel Boone National Forest is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which features more than 100 natural sandstone arches.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 - $43 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground

    5. Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    62 Photos
    105 Saves
    Winchester, Kentucky

    Enjoy camping on the banks of the Kentucky River year-round! The campground offers 166 sites with electricity and water hookups; 18 have full hookups. There are 2 central service buildings and 3 dump stations. An activities building can accommodate 150 people, and central service buildings provide showers, rest rooms, and laundry facilities. WiFi available. There is a small grocery at the check-in area. Open year-round. Restrooms and water fill-up available year-round. Four pull-throughs open year-round. Call 859-527-3454 or email: jack.winburn@ky.gov with inquiries. Primitive campground closed indefinitely.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Whispering Hills RV Park, Inc
    Camper-submitted photo from Whispering Hills RV Park, Inc
    Camper-submitted photo from Whispering Hills RV Park, Inc
    Camper-submitted photo from Whispering Hills RV Park, Inc
    Camper-submitted photo from Whispering Hills RV Park, Inc
    Camper-submitted photo from Whispering Hills RV Park, Inc

    6. Whispering Hills RV Park, Inc

    23 Reviews
    56 Photos
    70 Saves
    Georgetown, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $36 - $46 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kincaid Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kincaid Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kincaid Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kincaid Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kincaid Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kincaid Lake State Park Campground

    7. Kincaid Lake State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    51 Photos
    71 Saves
    Falmouth, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $22 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    8. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    132 Photos
    4 Saves
    Pine Ridge, Kentucky

    Overview

    This Campground offers dozens of shaded, wooded campsites. 54 suitable for tents and 19 suitable for a trailer. Camping and fires are prohibited in rock shelters.____

    Recreation

    The Red River Gorge offers untouched beauty for hiking enthusiasts. From the campground access: Hidden Arch Trail, Koomer Ridge Trail, Cliff Trail and Silvermine Arch Trail.____

    Facilities

    The Red River Gorge offers untouched beauty for hiking enthusiasts. From the campground access: Hidden Arch Trail, Koomer Ridge Trail, Cliff Trail and Silvermine Arch Trail.____

    Natural Features

    Koomer Ridge is located in the heart of the Red River Gorge on the Cumberland District in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Scenic sweeping views and amazing hiking trails.__

    Nearby Attractions

    Red River Gorge, NADA Tunnel, Zilpo Campground, Tater Knob, Natural Bridge, Sky Bridge, Clifty Wilderness.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $17 - $33 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground

    9. East Fork State Park Campground

    63 Reviews
    272 Photos
    181 Saves
    Concord, Ohio

    East Fork State Park Campground is large with 400+ year-round sites mostly wooded, and located on the north side of the lake. (follow link for reservation details) It offers Electric and Full Hookup sites, including an equestrian camping in Loop A; all with 20, 30, and 50 amp service. Designated hammock camping sites are available.

    Each site has a paved pad, picnic table, and fire ring. Bring your own equipment and play cornhole, soccer, basketball; plus enjoy beach and boat ramp access and pay-to-play putt-putt. Visitor’s Passes ($3) are collected from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and special holidays (ie-Halloween campouts). Leashed pets are permitted in all areas.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $29 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Showing results 1-10 of 80 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Carlisle

Recent Reviews in Carlisle

722 Reviews of 80 Carlisle Campgrounds


  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground
    Nov. 7, 2024

    Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground

    big, lots of trees and noisy

    Stayed here a week. Had the place pretty much to myself especially on the rainy days. Outstanding features for me were the 4 pull thrus, one of which I scored,. Water is available here and there but not at every site. One side of the campground abuts an asphalt plant which was quit noisy at times. The park is on the river at the bottom of a valley. The highway traffic comes down one side with engine brakes bellowing and the passing lane going back up is almost as loud with truck drivers using every gear to stay up to speed. I noticed the number of dump trucks near the park/asphalt plant on my way in. Near quitting time for the plant the highway many feet above you sounds like the scene in full metal jacket on the beach with the helicopters coming and going,  the plant is on the same side of the river next to the bridge. I was very close.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground
    Oct. 26, 2024

    East Fork State Park Campground

    HUGE state park with many activities

    General: Huge state park with over 400 sites. All are pet-friendly and electric. About 20 are FHU. While tent camping is permitted, certain sites are not recommended for it as there would be no place to pitch a tent. One loop is for equestrian camping but when we were there, I only saw one horse trailer, and the rest were occupied by RV campers. 

    Site Quality: All camper pads are paved and most appeared level or just very slightly sloped. A picnic table and fire ring complete the site. Some sites have more trees to provide privacy while others are closer together with little separation.

    Bath/Shower House: Not all loops have their own bath house and the I loop where we stayed was one of them. We used the one in the H Loop. The bathhouses were clean, and the shower had nice hot water, however, it doesn’t seem like there were sufficient facilities for how large the campground was (H Loop had two showers, two toilets, and three sinks). Hooks or shelves would have been appreciated.

    Activities/Amenities: Many activities can be enjoyed here including mini golf (small nine-hole course), soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, corn hole, boating, and bicycling. Playgrounds are in several loops (I saw them in C and G). Rentals are available but most are only in season (ended September 30). There is a nature center and several hiking or paved biking/walking trails. There is also a camper beach for boating and swimming.

    When we reserved months earlier, we knew that our first night (a Saturday) was 100% full as we got the very last site. What we did not know is that there was a HUGE Halloween celebration complete with 30-40 decorated golf carts parading through the campground. The road was closed until 6:45 pm (we arrived around 7 pm) and cars lined both sides of the approximately two-mile road! If that's your thing, great but it wasn't necessarily ours!

    I appreciate that this park encourages so much outdoor activity, but it is not very pedestrian-friendly. I walked the road from one end to the other and there was no shoulder and, in many spots, no place to safely step off into the grass. I’m guessing it is assumed you will either have a car or golf cart to get around. 

    One final note: for a park so close to a large city (Cincinnati), I was surprised the cell service was so lacking (on Verizon). We eked out one and occasionally two bars of 4G.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    Beautiful location just off a paved road

    We came in on a Friday late afternoon and there were only a few camping sites available. We found a spot right on the lake.

    Our first morning a heron was fishing in the lake less than 100 feet from us. We saw him catch a fish. There were woodpeckers, hawks and several other birds I did not recognize.

    The view of the lake from our camp site was amazing. Very picture worthy!

    The campsites are pretty close together providing less than optimal privacy. Some of the campers stayed up late but they kept the noise level down.

    While there we saw one group hang a deer carcass in a tree. Good times!

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Natural Bridge Campground

    Not as advertised

    The amenities are not worth the price. The bathrooms are not clean. We paid for a campsite that had water and electric but we had to share water with another site. Luckily there were a splitter available. The sites in the 30s look like they may be spacious but you are on top of one another.

    The 5 star review on here is regarding the state park camping, not this site. Would not return.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Still Waters Campground
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Still Waters Campground

    Great for long term or seasonal

    Lots of run down RV’s and shanty town in the back of the park. More long term renters than weekend warriors. One dump station, no sewage on the sites. One bathroom, for the whole Park. lots of tents sites (that were busy) makes for poor bathrooms. Not to mention its outhouse style with no climate control. 1/3 men’s bathrooms were out of order and 1/3 urinals were too. 2/3 showers where out of order and the two useable toilets, the door locks were broken. No wifi. Fires are allowed. Fire pits are run down so be mindful. 2/5 bars for ATT services. Sites aren’t labeled or labeled extremely bad. Electrical seems very out dated. Make sure you have protection. Over priced at $60 + tax for the night. Scattered shade. Pull through sites mainly. Picnic tables have seen better days (years more like it). Good space between sites and access to the river for water sports. Little lake for fishing. No pet area and strict leash laws. I wanna give this a 2/5 because they were pleasant. They encouraged me to review on multiple sites but I think that would be bad for them so I’ll stick to my main review site. 1/5, if the price was better like 30-40/night maybe 2/5 but for the price of a motel 6 and only electrical and that is sketchy. Save your money book elsewhere or avoid.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Creek Campground
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Oak Creek Campground

    Fine choice for quick stays

    We stayed one night— fine for the quick in and out. Did NOT have sewer hookups as advertised, so plan to dump before you park if you’ve been traveling. Spaces are narrow— though we were able to navigate the area, I wouldn’t necessarily call it “Big Rig Friendly” Road behind is loud but the campground itself was quiet.

  • Patti W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Callie’s Lake and Campground
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Callie’s Lake and Campground

    NOT happy,

    Made reservations almost a month in advance, arrived on given day and could not level our RV on a very unlevel lot couldnt even get our steps to come out as they hit gravel. Tried to move the RV around for over an hour and finally went to the store to inform them of our trouble. We were told they had no other space for us, so we had no choice but to leave. This was NOT our choice, they did not deliver what they had promised, yet no refund, or even a partial refund was offered. 3 years being full time on the road, this was a first such experience, and their lack of concern made us not happy.

    .UPDATE Callie and I have talked and our issues have been resolved. We visited Callies Lake& Campground, no overnight stay

  • BluePitMom O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Springs Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Serene!

    We stayed from Sunday until Tuesday and didn't want to leave! The campground offers something for everyone: playground equipment, basketball hoop and various balls, access to the river for fishing, and absolutely stunning views of the Ohio as well as the surrounding hills.

    The campers were friendly. Nobody was loud and obnoxious. The owners Julie and Darcy are super nice and helpful.

    We liked the campground so much we're returning in a few weeks!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Three Springs Campground
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Three Springs Campground

    Three Springs Campground

    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. Sites are not particularly level. Bathrooms are clean and the hosts are attentive. The only trash bin is near the office by the out of service pool.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground
    Sep. 19, 2024

    East Fork State Park Campground

    Just my luck

    When you check out, Eastfork, you should look at it personally instead of just online. My mistake was I did it online and I ended up with My Family being in the middle of the rich snob class of loop I lol.? We did have a very nice neighbor across from us the last couple days. The bathrooms were clean . Our lot was full of acorns very very dry and very very small lot. They say you’re supposed to camp or park your tent from the electric box over.

  • Benjamin A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Creek Farm
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Wildcat Creek Farm

    Nice spot on riverside

    First thing first. Keven was awesome! Hands down best stay at a camp area I've ever had. Hospitality awesome. Animals awesome. Neighbors were quiet as well. Even though we had an accidental mishap. Kevin was super cool. Would definitely recommend. Will be coming back for sure. 

    The "island" site is a nice little shaded area above the riverside. Off to the right corner of the site is a set of stairs leading down to the river with an area to take some chairs and relax by the water. On a clear night it was super relaxing listening to nature and looking up in the night sky and seeing orions belt and the moon directly above the river. Pretty damn cool especially if you have never seen country sky at night. The animals are a few donkeys, chickens, and a farm cat all are very friendly and won't get into your stuff but occasionally will stop by and say hi. Overall....great experience. If you get a chance to book this spot. Don't think about it just do it. THANKS KEVEN! keep the bottle caps going!!!

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Clear Creek Rec Area
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Clear Creek Rec Area

    Beautiful creek

    Pros: Beautiful little creek. Well spaced sites. Low usage. Some sites are long. Nice hiking trails from campsite. Most sites are shaded.

    Cons: Close to a moderately used road.

    Pit toilets, picnic tables, gravel pads.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from A.J. Jolly Park & Campground
    Sep. 12, 2024

    A.J. Jolly Park & Campground

    AJ Jolly campground

    Expensive for what it has to offer. At 48.00 bucks a night yes they do have WIFI in the RV section. They do have concrete pads. It’s a shame they are worthless they are to small to park the average RV on an are on the wrong side of most rigs unless you pull in 1/2 the sites the electric is on the wrong side. The sites are gravel and not level the rest rooms are new and nice. The horse stalks are very nice. If you have a large horse trailer type camper your screwed the sites are small so that only leaves you with the RV sites that are a few 100 feet away from the stables If you want to walk threw the drainage ditch add about 300 ft if you don’t want to walk threw the muck. It’s a shame when they paved the entry road they didn’t spend a little more. “Grant money “ or tax money an do it properly. The main play ground is extremely nice. About 1/3 Mile walk. They do have a small playground in the rv section. For horses again they have a nice setup for big RVs it Sux they have a dump station. Situated in between the entry road to the Fkatwood rv section and equestrian area The main lake is nice you can rent kayaks canoes. Or use your own boat. The boat ramp is nice the other end of the lake at the flat wood rv section. Is t really a lake it’s a back water shallow mud hole depending on the time of the year. Mosquitoes the size of jet fighters. Will rather eat you alive or carry you off. “Lol sorry could t resist “ it gets bad the park is clean and well maintained Except for the camp sites

  • Chaz M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Natural Bridge Campground

    A lot to do

    There is so much to do nearby. Awesome stores and adventures. Campground has WiFi, fishing for kids, and is in a great location.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkhorn Creek RV Park
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Elkhorn Creek RV Park

    Great Family Spot

    We last minute booked this spot as a family getaway and we are so happy we did. It was perfect for our kids and dogs. Kids were none stop walking the dogs, and scootering up and down the road. Everyone was so kind, there was even live music! And can I take a moment to say the restroom/shower was the cleanest I have EVER used. Huge thanks to the staff, you can tell they truly take pride in their work. We had a site next to the creek and it was beautiful! We are already talking about coming back!

  • Kristen S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Still Waters Campground
    Aug. 27, 2024

    Still Waters Campground

    Excellent weekend trip

    Campsites are shady and flat, bathhouse is clean and well maintained. Office staff are friendly and helpful. We had a blast spending the day in the creek! Thanks for an A+ weekend campout!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground
    Aug. 24, 2024

    East Fork State Park Campground

    Decent spot to tent camp (while working on my “itty bitt” camper

    Lot372 sits in a little into the woods. Makes it cool for camping. Real camping without a camper. lol shade some sun but watch out for the yellow jackets!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Springs Campground
    Jul. 25, 2024

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Fun for all

    The campsite is totally geared towards family fun! The owners are so hospitable, that you feel like family! One of the most fun places we’ve ever stayed! My kids were busy nonstop with planned fun activities! And they had things for the adults as well and a lot of things for everyone to do together!

  • Shannon G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from East Fork State Park Campground
    Jul. 21, 2024

    East Fork State Park Campground

    Spacious site

    We enjoyed this site a lot. Neighbors weren’t sitting on top of one another. There was a tree for shade and plenty of space and grass to walk our dogs. Shower house was great!

  • Corey K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Carter Caves State Resort Park
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Carter Caves State Resort Park

    State Park with Abundance of Nature

    A very nice state park with an abundance of natural resources surrounding the campground. There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds. The caves themselves are quite the treat.

    The staff are all very friendly and there are camping sites for tents or rigs. However, like many state parks that have not been updated, navigating into some of the spots with a large rig can be challenging. On the one hand, this is nice as there are mature trees throughout. On the other hand, they could increase the size / length of the existing campsites. There is a nice playground and a camp store for any items you have forgotten.

    The lodge is available down the road (within the state park) for dinner if you are looking to mix up the trip. Not fine dining, but decent food. There is also a pool available at a discounted rate for campers - which our kids enjoyed. Note: there are no full hookup sites, which is not uncommon for KY State Parks.

  • Jennifer M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Zilpo Campground

    Beautiful campground

    Quiet, less utilized campground on Cave Run Lake. Campsites have more privacy and are more primitive. There is a bathhouse, but it is not regularly maintained. This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing. Some of the campsites have private beaches.

  • Katrin M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    Very nice campground

    We camped here over the weekend in a double campsite. It was very spacious and clean. The site had 2 picnic tables, 2 lantern poles, and and a fire pit. Everything was leveled, so the tent set up was really easy. The campground is very well maintained. Some sites have stairs in order to reach the tent pads. There is a bathhouse with flushing toilets and nice showers. They also have pit toilets, which I never used. There are several trails, that start from the campground. The area is absolutely stunning, but it was extremely hot, so we couldn't do too much hiking. But the plan is to return in fall.

  • Ashlee G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodstock Campground
    Jun. 8, 2024

    Woodstock Campground

    Our fave primitive camp in the RRG!

    We LOVE Woodstock! Such a beautiful, open, peaceful property and each site has its own handmade benches and firepit. Literally right off the road for Red River Gorge so you’re 10 minutes from creation falls, sky bridge, chimney top rock, etc. Also right down the road from Sky Station and The Brick for beers, ice cream and coffee. Also just 15 minutes from the amazing Muir Valley climbing area. Literally couldn’t ask for a better location for a weekend in RRG. Not to mention how peaceful it is, away from the hustle and bustle of the other camps in Slade.

    Ronnie is the kindest host, very considerate and welcoming. He helped us when we pulled in to guide our big rig to the best spot (35 foot camper). He has tent sites and space for RVs but it is primitive camping so be prepared - no water or bathrooms available. Oh and cash only!

    We can’t wait to be back. Thanks Ronnie!



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 80 campgrounds and RV parks near Carlisle, KY and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Carlisle, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carlisle, KY is Kentucky Horse Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 47 reviews.

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Carlisle, KY.

  • What parks are near Carlisle, KY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 parks near Carlisle, KY that allow camping, notably Daniel Boone National Forest and Grayson Lake.