Tent camping opportunities around Elizabethtown, Kentucky provide access to the Green River watershed, which drains over 9,000 square miles of central Kentucky. The region features hilly terrain with elevation changes of 400-600 feet between waterways and ridgetops. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring more moderate conditions ideal for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Kayaking the Green River: The Green River offers an 11-mile paddling route from Green River Ferry to Houchin Ferry Campground. "Set up camp at Houchins Ferry and kayaked from Green River Ferry back to the campsite. Great spot for a day kayaking, about 11 miles from Green River Ferry," notes David, who found this stretch manageable for a day trip.
Cave exploration: Mammoth Cave National Park provides underground adventures a short drive from Elizabethtown. "Highly recommend a cave tour as well at Mammoth Cave National Park. You will not be disappointed," advises Shea M. The park offers tours ranging from accessible walkways to challenging crawls through undeveloped passages.
Night sky viewing: The rural setting creates excellent conditions for stargazing and wildlife observation. "We tent camped here in July and saw hundreds of lightning bugs! It was magical, that really made the experience so much better for us," shares a camper at Mountain Top Retreat, describing the natural light show visible during summer months.
What campers like
River proximity: Waterfront sites provide both recreation and natural cooling. "The sites are near a river and there is an option of taking the ferry to the campground. Some of the sites appeared much larger than others, but overall it was a surprising natural respite from the rest of the busy park," writes Sara S. about her experience at Houchin Ferry.
Temperature differences: The riverside location creates a microclimate effect. "Sites are right along the side of the Green River and the temperature here was a consistent 3 degrees F lower than in town," reports Overland 1, noting this natural cooling benefit during hot Kentucky summers.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer room to spread out. "We really enjoyed this place! It's located on the green river and has very spacious campsites. Plenty of room for the kids or dogs to run around," explains Shea M. about Yellowbank Creek, highlighting the generous site dimensions.
What you should know
Limited services: Most tent camping near Elizabethtown requires self-sufficiency. "This is a very nice and clean campground with about 10 sites. Very clean port a pottys that are maintained well. Dumpster for trash and each site has a fire ring," explains Overland 1, outlining the basic but functional amenities.
Signal limitations: Cell coverage can be unreliable at most campgrounds. "No signal. Your phone will tease you with one bar and occasionally something might get through but it would be easier on your battery to just wait until you get into town," advises Shelly S., suggesting campers plan accordingly for limited connectivity.
Reservation requirements: Booking policies have changed post-COVID. "Houchins Ferry Campground is small and the sites are pretty close together. It usually is first come first serve, but during Covid is reservation only. It fills up fast on the weekends," notes David, pointing out the need to secure spots in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Natural entertainment: Kids find plenty to explore without electronic distractions. "Lost of space to run around with the kids. Pretty view of the river. Sites 1-6 were pretty close together. I would have picked site 8 if I had to go again," suggests Micah N., recommending specific sites for families at River Floodplain Campsites.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Plan summer visits for memorable natural displays. "We tent camped here in July and saw hundreds of lightning bugs! It was magical, that really made the experience so much better for us," shares a reviewer who found this natural phenomenon particularly captivating for children.
Drive times: Consider travel distances when planning activities. "I arrived to find the campground pretty much empty, but a lot further from the main area of the park than I thought. It's just about a 20-minute drive over to the caves and main hiking trails," explains Tucker B., noting the commute required for certain attractions.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas have limited vehicle access. "These sites are listed as 'Tent Only' but I got my Dodge van in no problem. In my 3 days here I saw many tents, a small pop up camper, and 2 vans. Anything larger would be a problem I think," explains Overland 1, clarifying what vehicles can access these primitive sites.
Road conditions: Access routes may challenge larger vehicles. "Road in is paved and not bad, but has a few hills and is narrow," notes a camper describing the approach to Houchin Ferry, important information for those with trailers or larger camping vehicles.
Alternative options: For those seeking more amenities, consider private campgrounds. "It's as pricy as a hotel room. Good for family's, but the only reason we stayed here was because it was the only place open on Saturday night," explains Anthony A. about Mountain Top Retreat, which offers cabin options for those wanting more comfort than tent camping provides.
