Camping near Daniel Boone National Forest

Daniel Boone National Forest, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Daniel Boone National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Daniel Boone National Forest (79)

    1. Zilpo Campground

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

    $28 - $94 / night

    "Zilpo Campground is nestled in the Daniel Boone National forest, so there's plenty of wildlife. Also the fishing is amazing ."

    "This campground has it all:)  I picked this campsite as it is further south in the Daniel Boone National Forest so it isn't near the chaos of the climbing that is found further North.  "

    2. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    41 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 780-7818

    $31 - $128 / night

    "This portion of Daniel Boone National Forest is peak beauty in the summer, the beautiful mature trees and well maintained sites make camping so much more enjoyable."

    "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."

    3. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    18 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)."

    4. Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

    42 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 663-2214

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Natural Bridge State Park is within Daniel Boone National Forest and Middle Fork is the campground in the State Park."

    "The bathroom (toilets, showers, sinks) was decently kept (facilities were in the front half of the campground so we had to walk over that hill to get to it)."

    5. Clear Creek Rec Area

    9 Reviews
    Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 768-2722

    "We couldn't have asked for a better place to end this portion of our kentucky adventures This camp ground is pretty basic and lovely."

    "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."

    6. The Ole Cornfield

    9 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    7 miles
    Website

    "The proximity to the river and kayaking is a big priority for me.  They have kayaks for rent at the campground or you can bring your own. "

    "We were able to put up a 20 x 10 canopy outside of our camper canopy with plenty of extra room. Lots of space for the kids to run."

    7. Red River Gorge Campground

    22 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    17 miles

    $10 / night

    "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."

    8. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 784-6428

    "With about a dozen or so sites, some along the lakeshore, others closeby, lots of options exist to be alone or with a group. "

    "This drive in campground is awesome for those who like to camp for free. Right off the highway! Located on Cave Run Lake. No fire pits, no restrooms, no water or electricity hookups."

    9. Whittleton Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

    20 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 663-2214

    $20 - $30 / 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."

    10. Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)

    19 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    19 miles
    Website

    $14 / night

    "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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 79 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Daniel Boone National Forest

630 Reviews of 79 Daniel Boone National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Daniel Boone National Forest

Camping near Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky, offers a fantastic escape into nature with plenty of options for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something for you.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: There are numerous trails to discover. One camper mentioned, “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,” highlighting the beauty of the trails around Koomer Ridge Campground.
  • Kayaking and Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Zilpo Campground, are perfect for water activities. A reviewer noted, “This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing. Some of the campsites have private beaches.”
  • Caving Adventures: At Carter Caves State Resort Park, you can explore various caves. One visitor shared, “There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds.”

What campers like:

  • Privacy and Space: Campers appreciate the spacious sites. A review for Koomer Ridge Campground said, “The campground is very well maintained... The site had 2 picnic tables, 2 lantern poles, and a fire pit.”
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are a big plus. One camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park mentioned, “Staff cleans the bathhouse every hour.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpful staff. A visitor at Twin Knobs Recreation Area said, “Camp hosts very friendly and helpful.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A reviewer noted, “No hookups and super shady so solar is difficult.”
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially at busier times. A camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park mentioned, “There’s a quiet time reserved for after 11pm. Apparently no one cares because people were LOUD the first night we were there.”
  • Site Sizes Vary: Campsite sizes can differ significantly. A camper at Whittleton Campground said, “Some sites are shaded, while some of the inner circle ones were in the sun.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites. A family at Twin Knobs Recreation Area found, “Good level spots. Quiet the first week of April.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities for kids. One reviewer at Carter Caves State Resort Park said, “Great facilities, hiking, caving etc. We plan to return because two nights was not nearly enough to do all the things we wanted to.”
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or nearby attractions. A camper at Grayson Lake State Park mentioned, “It has 2 playgrounds and plenty of grassy area for kids to play.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Research Site Levels: Some sites can be slanted, making it tricky for RVs. A reviewer at Koomer Ridge Campground advised, “A lot of sites are too slanted for a van or RV, but amazing for tent camping.”
  • Bring Extra Cords: If you need hookups, be prepared with extra cords. A camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park noted, “The hookups are very far from the site. Be prepared to bring extra electric cord and hose.”
  • Check for Dump Stations: Make sure to know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Grayson Lake State Park mentioned, “Only one dump station so we had to wait a while.”

Camping near Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Daniel Boone National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Daniel Boone National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 79 campgrounds and RV parks near Daniel Boone National Forest and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Daniel Boone National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Daniel Boone National Forest is Zilpo Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 49 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Daniel Boone National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Daniel Boone National Forest.

What parks are near Daniel Boone National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 parks near Daniel Boone National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.