Camping spots near Means, Kentucky sit within the Cumberland Plateau region at elevations around 800-1,200 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with humid summers reaching the 80s and mild winters with occasional snow. Streams run high during spring, while fall typically brings lower water levels and temperatures that range from 40-70°F through September and October.
What to do
Primitive backcountry camping: Red River Gorge offers extensive backcountry options with a required permit ($5). "You need a pass when not camping in a camp ground which cost very little per night. The hiking trails are mind blowing with great views and river side. Must see arches and natural bridges," notes one Red River Gorge Campground visitor.
Water activities: Cave Run Lake provides paddling opportunities. "We were able to use our blow up paddle board and cruise around. It was the first time using it so that made our experience here even more wonderful," shares a camper at Clear Creek Rec Area. The small lakes and streams allow for fishing, swimming and paddling from April through October.
Mountain biking: Trail networks accommodate riders of various skill levels. "Koomer Ridge campground has a great location for mountain biking (what we went for), hiking, fishing - anything really! The Daniel Boone Nat Forest is, I think, at its most beautiful in late spring," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Creek access: Many campsites feature stream proximity. "We stayed at B29 at Middle Fork next to the creek that runs through the campground. We really enjoyed swimming in and following the creek upstream," says a visitor at Middle Fork Campground. These creekside sites typically fill first during summer weekends.
Direct trail access: Campsites with connecting trails receive high praise. "Multiple trails leave straight out of the campground and head into the Red River Gorge, a nice feature. Campground is heavily wooded, too, so plenty of shade should be available during the summer months," mentions a Koomer Ridge Campground reviewer.
Stargazing conditions: The region's distance from major cities creates excellent night sky viewing. "This campsite is amazing. Perfect for stargazers. Nobody is there during the weekday. But the weekend is usually packed," notes a Zilpo Campground camper.
What you should know
Road access constraints: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. "The road getting to the campsite is mostly one lane, so if you are in an RV, go slow," advises a visitor. Many roads into backcountry areas are gravel, narrow, and may be impassable after heavy rain.
Seasonal campground closures: Most established campgrounds operate limited seasons. "We were there for a 3 day 2 night weekend. Had about 5-6 other campers there. People are super friendly. Place is peaceful. Can not hear much road noise unless a car doesn't have a muffler," reports a Natural Bridge Campground camper.
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Koomer ridge is a great campground if you don't want to hike to camp, it's kid and dog friendly!" shares one visitor. Site numbering at most campgrounds does not consistently indicate privacy levels.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming holes: Creeks provide natural water play areas. "Loved this place so much we stayed a few nights on our trek cross country. We stayed in spot 17 which had its own access to a smaller creek. You can take a short walk up the small creek to get to Clear creek. Spots deep enough for swimming. Our dogs loved this place," reports a Clear Creek visitor.
Bathroom facilities: Amenities vary widely between campgrounds. "Bath/Shower house: More than adequate toilet stalls, two sinks, and two showers. Only one sink had hot water. The shower was wimpy at best. Took a long time to coax hot water, and then the flow was very weak," explains one Middle Fork Campground camper.
Playground accessibility: Some campgrounds include play equipment. "We had a wonderful time here. We plan to return soon!" shares a Whittleton Campground visitor. Many families report children enjoying the natural features more than constructed play areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites present leveling challenges. "All sites were level; some were paved, and some were gravel (riverfront sites tended to be gravel). Most are back-in, but the middle row has pull-thru sites, however, if you had a large RV with a toad, you would likely not have room for both in your site," explains a Middle Fork camper.
Hookup limitations: Water and electric availability varies widely. "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," notes a Natural Bridge Campground visitor. Most campgrounds offer limited full-hookup sites that book months in advance during peak season.
Length restrictions: Some campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. "Beautiful area. Campsites are tight! Had trouble backing in our 32' bumper pull. Close to the Natural Bridge trail and multiple SUP Kentucky sites," reports a Whittleton Campground visitor.
