Daniel Boone National Forest spans 708,000 acres across eastern Kentucky, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,500 feet. The forest contains over 3,400 miles of sandstone cliffs and limestone caves, creating diverse terrain for campers. Cave Run Lake serves as a central feature with 8,270 acres of water surface for recreation.
What to do
Hiking near Natural Bridge: Access multiple trails directly from campgrounds for day hikes. "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," notes a camper at Koomer Ridge Campground.
Kayaking on Licking River: Launch from riverside campsites for a 2-hour float trip. "The campground is brand new and it has new bath/shower houses. They have kayaking at the campground or shuttle service if you bring your own kayak. The ride from the dam down to the campground is beautiful and serene," shares a visitor to The Ole Cornfield.
Rock climbing areas: Daniel Boone National Forest offers over 1,600 established climbing routes. "This is a great campground if you don't want to hike to camp, it's kid and dog friendly!" mentions a reviewer about camping near popular climbing areas.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer direct water access with varying levels of privacy. "Great campground with a lot of privacy! We couldn't have asked for a better place to end this portion of our Kentucky adventures," notes a camper at Twin Knobs Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and camping areas throughout the forest. "The bathhouse is next to Site 14 and was clean though chilly but had hot & cold running water and was modern/updated," reports a visitor to Koomer Ridge Campground.
Natural features: Unique geological formations within walking distance of campsites. "Natural Bridge is advertised in every rest stop within a 5 hour radius, but it is a very nice park with interesting geology and lots to do," explains a camper from Middle Fork Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The area receives 46-48 inches of rainfall annually with occasional flooding in low-lying areas. "We stayed June 5th through June 9th and it rained every day, a lot. Our campsite (A-30) drained the rain off really well," notes a visitor to Twin Knobs Recreation Area.
Wildlife encounters: Beyond deer and turkeys, black bears are present in the forest. "It is a beautiful campground. Just make sure you clean up after yourselves so the next person doesn't have to clean your mess! If you leave food and garbage out you will attract Bears," warns a camper at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area.
Cell service limitations: Reception varies significantly throughout the forest. "No cell signal (verizon). I definitely will be back for getting off the grid and relaxing!" mentions a camper at Clear Creek Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for children: Several campgrounds feature shallow streams perfect for exploration. "The grandkids love to play in the river, which is about 1 to 2 feet deep at this location. Great for wading and catching minnows, crawdads, and such," explains a camper at The Ole Cornfield.
Family-friendly hikes: Multiple short trails suitable for children under 10. "We had a wonderful time here. We plan to return soon!" shares a family visiting Koomer Ridge Campground.
Educational opportunities: Rangers offer junior naturalist programs at select locations from April through October. "They offer all kinds of wonderful things there especially for kids, there is even a cave tour every week day!" mentions a visitor to Natural Bridge State Resort Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Reserve pull-through sites at least 6 months in advance. "Beautiful area. Campsites are tight! Had trouble backing in our 32' bumper pull," cautions an RVer at Whittleton Campground.
Water access considerations: Not all electric sites have water hookups nearby. "The sites are level and pull through with 50 amp service. There is city water available and a dump station," notes an RVer at The Ole Cornfield.
Seasonal road conditions: Some access roads to pet friendly camping areas close after heavy rain or during winter months. "June 2019 was not able to access the campsite due to a gate blocking the road," reports a visitor attempting to reach Paragon Dispersed Camping Area.
