90 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Clay City, Kentucky serves as a gateway to a diverse range of camping options in the Red River Gorge and Daniel Boone National Forest regions. Several established campgrounds like Middle Fork at Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Koomer Ridge, and Callie's Lake and Campground offer facilities for both tent and RV campers. The region combines developed sites with full hookups alongside more primitive options along forest roads and near geological features. Many campgrounds provide cabin rentals as an alternative to traditional camping, particularly at Natural Bridge Campground and Red River Gorge Retreats.
Road access varies across the camping areas, with many sites requiring navigation on gravel or forest service roads. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though services may be reduced during winter months. The Daniel Boone National Forest permits dispersed camping in designated areas, particularly popular along Chimney Top Road and Tunnel Ridge Road. Visitors should prepare for varied terrain and limited cell service in more remote camping zones. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in spring when rainfall affects trail and campsite conditions. A visitor noted, "I've camped at multiple locations - off Chimney Top Rd, Tunnel Ridge Rd at the Tar Kiln, and off Indian Creek Rd on the banks of the East Fork of Indian Creek. Each has its own unique qualities."
Campers consistently mention the proximity to hiking trails and natural features as primary draws to the area. The campgrounds near Natural Bridge State Resort Park provide easy access to popular geological formations and maintained trails. Primitive sites along forest roads offer more seclusion but fewer amenities. According to one review, sites along the rim "will not necessarily have a water source nearby," making preparation essential. Family-friendly options include campgrounds with fishing lakes, swimming areas, and organized activities. Several campgrounds feature camp stores with supplies and food options, particularly valuable given the distance from major shopping areas. Campers report varying levels of site privacy, with some noting that certain campgrounds can feel crowded during peak seasons while others offer more spacious accommodations.
"Our site was down a path about 60 steps from our parking space. The tent site area was rocky. We always use small rug runner next to our air mattress in our tent, which was a must for this site."
"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."
from $27 - $45 / night
Check Availability"I would rank the Red River Gorge area as the most beautiful place in the Kentucky. Any time I get the chance to head out this way, I do."
"Pros: clean bath house, convenient to SUP Kentucky/Gorge underground, level sites (smaller though) Cons: traffic noise, no cell service (which is a pro for some)"
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability"There are many campsites of multiple types available, but there are several primitive sites that still feel secluded and surrounded by trees."
"This was a nice campground near the red river gorge. My friends and I stayed at a primitive campsite # 10."
from $10 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Getting away from the busy life and into backcountry is like stepping into God's country. Don't have to worry about nothing and every day is a new adventure."
"The Tarr Ridge parking area is located on highway 77 on Tarr ridge rd in the red river gorge."
from $10 / night
"Located off I-64 in eastern Kentucky, RRG and Natural Bridge offer a wide variety of activities including hiking, camping, backcountry camping, kayak and canoe rentals, and the area has various local"
"Close to the Natural Bridge trail and multiple SUP Kentucky sites."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability"For a few bucks per carload, Miguel’s camping spot is contains of a few open field areas situated between the Climbing Gear Shop and the famous pizza spot."
"There is only a community fire pit - you can't have fires next to your tent. Here are some of the cool things at this campground.
Great breakfast, lunch, and dinner at their on-site restaurant."
from $14 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $39 - $45 / night
Check Availability"This big campground is a hidden gem near Red River Gorge. The road getting to the campsite is mostly one lane so is you are in an RV, go slow."
"The trail around the lake was very nice, short but hilly so a good morning walk. It rained the first evening which led to some pretty little waterfalls the next day."
from $12 - $999 / night
Check Availability"Nice shaded creek on the outskirts of the campground. Running water, RR, a grill, & Fire ring. All perks. 🔥"
"You cannot bring in firewood from outside of Natural Bridge State Park/Red River Gorge, so we purchased some with our reservation. They loaded up a wheel barrow for us and we took it to our site."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $31 - $105 / night
Check Availability
GuideThis is somewhat of a RV parking lot with level gravel sites with electric, sewer, and water. Some lots have trees. Ours did not. Park has pool, clean bathrooms and showers, laundry. People are friendly. The shop has multiple convenience items. They offer propane and have a kerosene tank too. It’s about 30 mins to Lexington. We have a 35’ travel trailer
ScoutI’m glad we visited this park but I feel like calling it a “resort park” is pushing it. We visited Silver Springs State Park in Florida, and Cloudland Canyon State Park in Georgia and their amenities were much better.
Pros:
Cons:
Other thoughts:
GuideFantastic experience very well maintained lots of activities decent WiFi. Friendly staff great communication. Will comeback 100%
ScoutOur site was down a path about 60 steps from our parking space. The tent site area was rocky. We always use small rug runner next to our air mattress in our tent, which was a must for this site. It rained before we arrived, so we saw where water would pool near the front of the tent pad (this was two steps up from the rest of the campsite) so we set up our ten near the back. Nice big picnic table and fire pit.
Very private site with huge trees. Being August and down in a valley meant very little wind at the site so it was quite muggy as expected. Pit toilets nearby were fine. Wish there would have been a hook for our light at night. Full bathrooms were in the main loop of the campground. They were fine, not the worst we've experienced, but not the best either.
Tons of great hiking nearby (within 20 minutes or so). There was also a nice trail just off the campground near our site.
ScoutCAUTION CAUTION CAUTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This campground has a very steep incline/decline to get to the campground. The reason you cannot come onto the property before 2 pm is that the road leading to the campground makes it very dangerous for two RV's to pass which the operators don't tell you. Instead they charge you$25 and yell at you if you come to their property before 2 pm. Their email only refers to entering their property not to the road leading to the property. There is no sign on the country road leading to the property so you never know when the reduced street size and incline/decline starts. VERY DANGEROUS!!!!!! I ALSO CONTACTED THE COUNTY AS THEY SHOULD HAVE NEVER ALLOWED THIS CAMPGROUND WITHOUT SOME TRAFFIC LIGHTS TO AVOID THAT TWO RV'S PASS EACH OTHER AT ANY TIME.
Also they seemed to have sewer issues as we could not leave our sewer access open as it stank to much.
GuideA lot of permanent rundown trailers parked haphazard as the sites are not laid out nicely. Stray cats running around. Muddy at the sites. Saving grace was clean bathhouse but who ever heard of automatic showers? Wasting a lot of water.
TravelerWe love Twin Knobs! We have camped there numerous times - in the Sping, Summer, and Fall. Electric and non electric sites. The campground staff is always a pleasure to interact with, and so kind! Always clean. Most sites are within walking distance to the lake. My only suggestion is I wish they had some playgrounds for small kids.
TravelerWe were greeted by the owner upon arrival. There are more adventures for kids at this 90 acre campground than I can list.
Scouttrails are a complete mess, a lot were impassable and very dangerous not recommended for horses, some have not had any maintenance done in years, even the main trail out of camp a couple miles was impassable... very poor :(
Clay City sits at around 640 feet elevation in the eastern foothills of Kentucky, serving as a gateway to the geologically diverse Red River Gorge region. The camping sites near Clay City, Kentucky experience distinct seasonal changes with humid summers averaging 85°F and winters dropping to around 25°F. Fall brings spectacular foliage colors while spring often creates muddy trail conditions that campers need to plan for.
Creek exploration: Middle Fork Campground has a creek flowing through the campground that's perfect for wading and exploring. "We really enjoyed swimming in and following the creek upstream," notes Daniel S., who stayed at Middle Fork Campground. The creek provides relief during hot summer days and creates a peaceful soundscape for campers.
Rock climbing: Red River Gorge attracts climbers from across the country with its unique sandstone formations. "A fantastic place for primitive backpack camping! There are 100's of rock climbs on bullet proof rock," explains Alan B. about the Red River Gorge Geological Area. Climbers should obtain the required backcountry permits for $5 at local gas stations.
Mountain biking: Koomer Ridge trails connect directly to the campground. "Koomer Ridge campground has a great location for mountain biking, what we went for," reports Erin H. The trails vary in difficulty, making them suitable for different skill levels, with most routes winding through dense forest and occasional ridge overlooks.
Privacy between sites: At Whittleton Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "We stayed at campsite 38, one out of 3 that are away from the rest of the sites," notes Katrin M. from Whittleton Campground. While most campgrounds in the area have sites close together, Whittleton offers some more secluded options.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature ponds or lake access. "They have a small lake (I'd call it a pond) for swimming and fishing (it was $5 for an adult to fish, and catch and release only)," describes David C. about Callie's Lake and Campground. The fishing ponds are typically stocked and provide a relaxing activity for campers.
Shower facilities: Clean bathroom facilities matter to campers. "The showerhouse is next to Site 14 and was clean though chilly but had hot & cold running water and was modern/updated," reports Jeffrey A. about Koomer Ridge. Most developed campgrounds in the area maintain shower facilities, though hours and hot water availability vary seasonally.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is spotty throughout the region. "No cell nor wifi. But all in all a nice park with tons of trails and some awesome sights," mentions Gary P. about Middle Fork Campground. Verizon typically provides the best coverage, though service remains inconsistent even at developed campgrounds.
Water availability at dispersed sites: When camping in the backcountry areas of the Red River Gorge, water sources are inconsistent. "This is a primitive camping area," notes Wayne H., adding that facilities like "bathrooms and trash bins" are only available at Natural Bridge Campground and other established sites, not in the backcountry.
Road conditions: Many camping areas require navigating challenging roads. "The road getting to the campsite is mostly one lane so if you are in an RV, go slow," advises Heather K. about Lago Linda Hideaway. Forest service roads leading to popular dispersed camping areas often require higher clearance vehicles, especially after rainfall.
Playground access: For families with children, playgrounds provide essential activity spaces. "There is a play ground for the kids," notes David C. about Callie's Lake and Campground, which also offers fishing and swimming options to keep children engaged throughout the day.
Educational opportunities: The historical significance of the region creates learning moments. "The Fort was VERY cool. If my kids were still at home this would definitely be a field trip location!" shares Shelly S. about Fort Boonesborough State Park, which offers living history demonstrations during peak season.
Kid-friendly trails: Several campgrounds offer easier hiking options suitable for children. "They offer all kinds of wonderful things there especially for kids, there is even a cave tour every week day!" explains Brittany S. about Middle Fork, highlighting the structured activities that can entertain children of various ages.
Site leveling challenges: RV campers report varying experiences with site conditions. "We arrived on given day and could not level our RV on a very unlevel lot couldn't even get our steps to come out as they hit gravel," warns Patti W. about Natural Bridge Campground, emphasizing the importance of checking site specifications before booking.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely between campgrounds. "Our site had 30 amp hook ups and the water pressure was about 40 psi," reports Marissa G. about Lago Linda Hideaway, where RV sites are limited but well-maintained with reliable hookups.
Pull-through accessibility: For larger RVs, pull-through sites are highly valued. "Outstanding features for me were the 4 pull thrus, one of which I scored," mentions Butch K. about Fort Boonesborough, adding that "water is available here and there but not at every site." Most campgrounds in the area accommodate smaller RVs more easily than larger models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Clay City, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Clay City, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 90 campgrounds and RV parks near Clay City, KY and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Clay City, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clay City, KY is Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest with a 4.7-star rating from 49 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Clay City, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Clay City, KY.
What parks are near Clay City, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 parks near Clay City, KY that allow camping, notably Daniel Boone National Forest and Buckhorn Lake.
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