Best Tent Camping near Cynthiana, KY

Tent camping options in the Cynthiana area include both established campgrounds and more secluded backcountry locations. Within driving distance of Cynthiana, Wildcat Creek Farm offers primitive tent sites with access to the Kentucky River, while The Ole Cornfield provides tent camping along the Licking River. Most tent sites in the region are situated on level ground with natural surroundings that appeal to campers seeking a more authentic outdoor experience.

Tent sites typically feature cleared, grassy areas with minimal development. At Wildcat Creek Farm, campers have access to basic amenities including drinking water, picnic tables, campfire rings, and portable toilets. The Ole Cornfield offers more facilities for tent campers, including drinking water, electricity, showers, and restrooms. Most tent campgrounds in the region require reservations, especially during peak seasons from spring through fall. Many sites permit fires when conditions allow, with firewood often available for purchase on-site.

Walk-in tent sites provide a more secluded experience away from vehicle traffic. The region's backcountry tent camping options offer varying degrees of privacy and natural settings. At Wildcat Creek Farm, tent campers can enjoy proximity to the Kentucky River with opportunities for wading and wildlife viewing. Sites near Cynthiana generally offer good tree cover for shade during summer months. A review mentioned, "We enjoyed our stay, and our kids loved the animals and the creek! Great hospitality." Further afield, Red River Gorge Geological Area provides extensive backcountry tent camping opportunities for those willing to drive approximately 60 miles southeast of Cynthiana, with one camper noting that "primitive and paid campsites both available, depending on your comfort level and preference."

Best Tent Sites Near Cynthiana, Kentucky (11)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Cynthiana, KY

538 Reviews of 11 Cynthiana Campgrounds


  • E
    Jul. 15, 2019

    Kincaid Lake State Park Campground

    Hilly, beautiful and secluded

    My family stayed here because we were visiting the Ark Encounter.  I’m not sure if there are closer campgrounds, but we chose to primitive camp here for our visit.  We arrived with just enough time to set up up our tent and head back towards Alexandria for dinner and supplies at Walmart.  There is not much variety and choices very close.  The RV and tent area is very hilly.  Our tent ground sloped but it didn’t bother us very much.  The campsites are very close to each other but there was only two other tent campers and they were both over 4 sites over from us. The tent area has portable toilets.  I chose to drive to the shower house when I needed to use the restroom.  The shower house is typical of most campgrounds, a few cobwebs but generally clean with shower and toilet stalls.  There are two shower houses for the entire campground.  The lake is very pretty, a few camp grounds are right off the shore.  The only thing I didn’t like was that there was no water spigot in the main tent camp area.

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 13, 2021

    Hartig Park & Wildlife Reserve - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Hidden Getaway

    This is an awesome quiet campground tucked away in northern KY along the Ohio River. There are 10-12 dispersed campsites with fire rings and picnic tables. No electric, no water, porti potti at park entrance. Would need to drive if camping at the top of the hill or bring a camp toilet. Great views and semi secluded.

  • T
    Nov. 9, 2023

    Hartig Park & Wildlife Reserve - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Great Secluded Spot

    Stayed here two nights. The first night at campsite #10, which didn't really have level ground, so we moved to #8 for night two. Each spot has a picnic table and fire ring. The main road was nice to drive on, but the others were pretty rough. Had spots for hammocks, and the portopotty was well maintained. The spots were all pretty secluded. Great remote location!

  • Chris H.
    Oct. 27, 2020

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Hidden Gem

    We've stayed at Twin Knobs twice now in our popup camper. First time was at F26, second was at F24. We love how the outer loop sites have such quick access to the water.

    Both sites are shaded very well and the sites themselves are huge. We could see other campers through the trees but we felt pretty well secluded.

    Each site has several tall poles with hooks for trash bags/food storage. as well each site has a large fire pit with flip-over grill for cooking.

    The firewood bundles are a bit pricey ($7) at the checkin shack, but I'm glad they are available. we purchased at least 7 bundles to have a pretty much constant fire through the day and night.

    The bathrooms are clean and easily accessible. There was a bit of an overflow issue our first day on site but it was resolved in less than an hour by the loop hosts.

    Pop's bbq was a hit both nights we were there. We ordered carryout (covid) and ate at camp on the provided picnic tables. The Dollar General is also adequately stocked.

    All in all a fantastic visit which we will repeat ASAP. it's too bad they close at the end of October. I bet winter camping there would be a treat.

    Cheers,

    Chris

  • M
    Jan. 26, 2022

    Callie’s Lake and Campground

    Impressive

    We were very pleased with this campground. When we first checked in, the smell of the food in the campground store was to die for. We had plans to cook at our campsite, but the specials that night were very tempting. The staff was kind and helpful, and provided us with a map of the property. The bathhouse was a nice touch! There are many campsites of multiple types available, but there are several primitive sites that still feel secluded and surrounded by trees. There are several sites that can be accessed by a sedan, but some of the sites farther back really require something more suited to off-road driving. We were in a Subaru Forester and had no issues, but did actually have to help push a Camry out of a rut. We visited in October 2021 and it seemed like the area we selected was still slightly under construction. The campsite was wonderful, but the picnic table was sitting on a slope and we were having a difficult time preventing our food from falling off. A flatter spot for the picnic table would be our only suggestion to the owner. My friend used a tent and was happy to see a flat spot cut out of the slope our site was situated on. I used a hammock and didn’t have any trouble finding suitable trees. We loved it and will definitely be back!

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2018

    Camp on the Kentucky

    Seasonal Campground With Great Pricing

    Something that sets this place apart from others in the area is long term tent camping!! Yes you read that right, LONG TERM TENT CAMPING! For most of those who travel you know they often offer long term services for those in RVs which provides a discount for staying more than a night or two, but at this campground you as a tent camper can find a location that suits your Kentucky home needs on the road for a day, a week or even a month!

    But what does that entail exactly?

    This site is really nice, with level sites for RVs or tents, padded grass which is well maintained, nice gravel roads around camp and a river frontage with views which will make you just want to stop and take in the scenery.

    When I visited I noticed a lot of people staying here near the weekend were visiting to launch their boats and troll the river fishing for what looked like some pretty large fish. It was pretty cool to see some of the people setting up their campground fish fry, and they were even friendly enough to invite me to join, though I don't eat fish so it didn't really work out that way.

    The tent sites were shaded and had several different options, you could choose primitive which is only $17 or for a few dollars more you could have electricity. All sites come with a picnic table and fire ring and a pull in to keep you and your things closely together.

    There was a playground and volleyball, but I didn't see anyone using these when I was there. A small camp store has a lot of the essentials in case your forgot something or just needed to pick up a snack. There was also firewood available, a big plus!!

    This place is a bit older looking in appearance but it is charming and the owner is very cool. I didn't meet a single person there that wasn't just enjoying life.

    TIPS:

    • If you are trying to check in the office has kind of strange hours. They are only open until 2 Sunday through Tuesday, not sure why but call in advance if you are running later than this time and want to check in.
    • Check their online event schedule! This campground host tailgating for UK so you can find a good tailgate party if you plan in advance, right at your campground!!
    • This is nearby the Bourbon Trail as well as so many other places where you will find activities. I was here to check out the Castle (I have attached a few photos) Can't miss this stop!!!
  • Steve Z.
    Aug. 5, 2021

    Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park

    Great place for passers through or staycationers.

    We have stayed in four sites her during the past couple of month. There are two walk-in sites (10 & 51). Both were pleasant, nearly level, close to amenities, but were under no shade. [Site 10 is presently inhabited by a large family with a sign that says “Camp Host out front. I have not seen them do anything for campers here, and the site is kept in disgraceful cluttered condition.] we next stayed on Lot 13, which backs up to the primitive campground. Quite nice, but beware: this site as well as about half of the other sites at this campground require the use of electrical and water extensions because the connections are on the “wrong” side of the RV, and quite a distance away. For Lot 13, I needed over 50’ of extensions. We then stayed on walk-in lot 51. I was able to “self permit” at the gate…it’s first come first served, no online reservations. Nice, but no shade. Finally, we’re on Lot 47. Eureka! This is my favorite so far. It’s one of the “premium sites” with wooden deck and nicer picnic table for only $2 additional per night. View is phenomenal, and it’s close enough to dumpsters and gatehouse. Notice that I didn’t mention anything about sewer hookups. That’s because there are none. There is a single, very popular dump station near the entrance/exit.
    There are several miles of decent trails here, a swimming pool, putt putt golf, a pioneer museum, and a lodge with a good restaurant. The campground is easily accessible and is very kid and pet friendly. Nice sites for tent camping. Facilities are a bit dated, but clean and well maintained. All RV sites are back-in, and some are limited length. (Though some campers have rather cleverly managed to pull through a couple of the sites.) Some are quite unlevel.
    Overall good family campground on rich historical site.

  • J
    Sep. 19, 2021

    Kincaid Lake State Park Campground

    VERY much recommend

    My husband and I stayed for 2 weeks in a very large tent back in primitive camping area ... The campground we found to be very well maintained with a very kind and attentive staff who checked on us regularly. The sites were large enough for our liking with each having a picnic table and firepit but no water or electric. 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 one set back is this big hill you must climb to get to the bathhouse or anywhere else on the property .. the distance to walk to the bathhouse as well is a good little walk and not anything you want to be doing if you have health issues or limited physically at all .. the bathhouse was always being checked on by staff for cleanliness and stayed pretty fresh our entire stay (they have 2 bathhouses) .. you can't gather or bring your own firewood for whatever reason and the 6$ cost per bundle (as well as the 7$ per bag of ice if u should need it) isn't cheap. Most rv sites are in shade ...nice playground for the kids and just outside the campground is the rest of kincaid lake state park .. the state park area has a beautiful view of lake with Olympic sized pool as well as general store and many different shelter houses and grills to enjoy if you'd like.. they have a nice recreational area offering a big nice basketball court , playground, volleyball court and putt putt golf course .. NICE QUIET PEACEFUL PLACE TO GET AWAY TO FOR SURE. WE WILL DEF BE BACK

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2018

    Fort Boonesborough State Park Campground

    Pricey but interesting

    I was very interested in this area for the living history museum but as a tent camper I had more than a little sticker shock at the $36 price point not to mention the booking fee on Reserve America. That made this one of the most expensive campgrounds I have stayed at including numerous stops in California. 😒

    The sites were well shaded and included the typical set up of fire rings and picnic tables but I did feel a little closer to my neighbor than I would have liked. I can only imagine the feeling to and RV camper would be even more suffocating.

    The campground was noisy and busy as it was a weekend, and while some of that can be expected for the higher price point I would have liked things to have been a bit more accommodating to those times, maybe they should offer a few less sites so there can be a bit more space so if it is busy you don’t feel like you are suffocated by noise.

    With that being said, not all was bad here. The things to do outside of th campground itself were worth some of the inadequacies the camp provided in way of space. The living history museum was one of the best I have seen in the Kentucky or Tennessee area and other amenities such as water access and proximity to hiking was great.

    If I did return it would be during the week and potentially not during summer to avoid the crowd.


Guide to Cynthiana

Tent camping options around Cynthiana, Kentucky extend throughout Harrison County and neighboring regions within a 60-mile radius. The area features primarily low rolling hills with elevations between 700-900 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-90°F, while spring and fall camping seasons bring more moderate temperatures with occasional rainfall. Most primitive camping sites in the region provide access to either the Licking River or Kentucky River watersheds.

What to do

Hiking near water features: At Wildcat Creek Farm, campers can access the Kentucky River directly from their site. "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," explains Benjamin A., who appreciated the riverside relaxation opportunities.

Stargazing in low light pollution areas: The rural setting around Cynthiana provides excellent night sky viewing conditions. "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," notes a Wildcat Creek Farm visitor.

Exploring limestone formations: At Red River Gorge Campground, approximately 60 miles southeast of Cynthiana, visitors find unique geological features. "Princess Arch offers 105ft of elevation and is a quick 0.6 mi hike from the parking loop. There are bathrooms and trash bins at the parking loop," shares Wayne H., describing one of many accessible natural features.

Backpacking multi-day routes: The region offers extended hiking opportunities. "Some of our favorite backpacking. Getting little busy unless you're out deeper in the back country," mentions Ted B. about the Red River Gorge area, suggesting more solitude on longer routes away from established areas.

What campers like

Farm animal interactions: Many tent sites near Cynthiana feature working farms with friendly animals. At Wildcat Creek Farm, Elizabeth R. notes, "The resident goats, mules, donkeys and horses are very friendly - just like the hosts!" This adds a unique dimension to the camping experience not found at more developed sites.

Privacy in riverside locations: Kurt B. describes camping at Bourbon Trail Campground: "A campsite settled upon the bank of the Kentucky River...we delighted in a campfire as the sun set and the stars came out. The night sky of stars and quiet stillness brought a calm and peace from our busy week."

Natural swimming areas: During warmer months, natural water features provide cooling recreation. "Every time I've camped the Gorge I head to the water hole and jumping rock...Camp amongst the tree line and branch out into the cool clear water on a hot summer's day! Taking a leap off the jumping rock should not be missed!!" advises Jess P.

Affordable backcountry permits: Access to dispersed camping areas often requires minimal fees. "Pick up your parking pass at the Shell gas station at 12187 Campton rd, Stanton, KY. A three days pass is $5," explains Wayne H. regarding Red River Gorge access, while another camper notes, "you need a pass when not camping in a camp ground which cost very little per night."

What you should know

Site accessibility varies seasonally: Many primitive camping areas become difficult to access during wet weather. Roads to remote sites may require vehicles with higher clearance, particularly after rainfall.

Limited bathroom facilities: At White Sulphur Horse Camp, John notes, "restroom facilities were stocked with TP," but most primitive sites offer minimal facilities. Come prepared with personal hygiene supplies and knowledge of proper waste disposal techniques.

Cell reception inconsistency: Connectivity shouldn't be expected at most tent sites. "There was slight cell service for Verizon & AT&T, enough for maybe text but not very consistent," reports John regarding White Sulphur Horse Camp.

Verify camping permissions: Some locations listed online may not permit overnight camping. Carl J. warns about one such location: "This is just a boat ramp for a local fishing lake sitting near the local water departments pump station. There is no camping here at all."

Tips for camping with families

Animal interaction opportunities: Families particularly enjoy farms that welcome camping. "We enjoyed our stay, and our kids loved the animals and the creek!" shares Katelyn W. about their experience at Wildcat Creek Farm.

Shallow water play areas: Look for campsites with gentle water access for children. Several riverside locations feature gradual entry points where younger campers can safely wade while under supervision.

Campsite delivery services: Some hosts provide extra assistance for families. At Mimsey's Mayhem, campground hosts often deliver firewood directly to sites, making setup easier for families with young children.

Noise considerations: Many camping areas around Cynthiana are working farms or rural properties where early morning animal sounds are common. This can be entertaining for children but might disrupt sleep for light sleepers.

Tips from RVers

Alternative horse camp options: RV campers with larger vehicles can consider horse camps for more spacious sites. "We try and use horse camps when traveling in larger groups since they have more space and are not always used," suggests John, who notes that even without horses, these areas work well for group camping.

Parking limitations: Many primitive tent sites near Cynthiana have limited parking areas. Multiple vehicles may need to park in designated areas rather than directly at campsites.

Water access points: RVers needing to refill water tanks should note that while many primitive sites lack hookups, public access points exist. Several campgrounds offer potable water sources even when other amenities are minimal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cynthiana, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cynthiana, KY is Tree Line Retreat with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Cynthiana, KY?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Cynthiana, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.