Best Camping near Mammoth Cave National Park

Of the six parks in the Bluegrass State, Mammoth Cave is the only true national park. This area of southwestern Kentucky holds the best outdoor activities to be found in the state.

There are a large number of campsites across a few campgrounds, and Mammoth Cave Campground holds most of them. Both Mammoth Cave and Maple Springs Campgrounds are accessible for RVs. Backcountry camping is also available for interested hikers. The caves are, of course, the big draw, and no matter where you stay, you should take a cave tour. Since there are no nearby forests or BLM land, the best camping near Mammoth Cave National Park is fairly far away at the Green River Lake Wildlife Management Area. If you can’t get a spot in the park, staying in nearby Park City or Brownsville, KY, is the best choice.

Best Camping Sites Near Mammoth Cave National Park, KY (66)

    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    1. Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    137 Reviews
    397 Photos
    373 Saves
    Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

    Overview

    Mammoth Cave Campground puts campers in a prime spot to explore the depths and overland treasures of Mammoth Cave National Park. Mammoth Cave is an underground passageway containing more than 400 miles of naturally sculpted limestone and sandstone. It is the longest recorded cave system in the world. The grand-scale chambers and long, winding passageways were the inspiration behind the park's name. The campground doubles as an entry point to 14 miles of hiking and biking trails. It's also a five minute walk to the visitor center, where cave tours begin.

    Recreation

    A must-do activity in the park is exploring Mammoth Cave. Walking tours of the caverns leave from the visitor center daily. There are also miles of bike trails and hiking trails within the park.

    Natural Features

    The campground is tucked inside Mammoth Cave National Park, which boasts scenic valleys along the Green River. The river is within walking distance of the camp, and the hilly Kentucky countryside expands beyond the valley. Deer and turkeys commonly stroll around the campground, so visitors are likely to see them grazing in the early morning and at dusk.

    Nearby Attractions

    Nearly 30 miles of the Green and Nolin rivers offer canoeing and boating through the park. Commercial outfitters outside the park rent canoes, kayaks and safety equipment.Most trails north of the Green River are open for horseback riding. Commercial liveries outside the park rent horses and some may provide organized excursions.

    Contact Info

    For local information, please call (270) 758-2424 or call (270) 758-2180 for general information.

    Charges & Cancellations

    For rules and reservation policies please follow the link below: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Nolin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nolin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nolin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nolin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nolin Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Nolin Lake State Park Campground

    2. Nolin Lake State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    98 Photos
    153 Saves
    Sweeden, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave
    Camper-submitted photo from Baileys Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Baileys Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Baileys Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Baileys Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Baileys Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Baileys Point

    4. Baileys Point

    34 Reviews
    107 Photos
    134 Saves
    Lucas, Kentucky

    Overview

    Bailey's Point campground is the largest of the Army Corps of Engineers' campgrounds on Barren River Lake. This campground offers several waterfront campsites with scenic views of the lake. Though the campground is one of the largest, you won't know it. There is room to roam, five camping loops with diverse scenery, and private coves for swimming or mooring your boat. You are sure to find a site that's your escape to nature and relaxation. View a virtual tour of Barren River Lake.

    Recreation

    Baileys Point has a boat ramp for access to prime fishing, water skiing and boating. Several islands in proximity to the campground are great for a quick picnic getaway by boat. Birding is also a popular activity with a variety of species including kestrels, indigo buntings, bald eagles and at night you can hear the calls of barred owls. Hikers can explore the C.E. Rager Nature Trail and the Robert Foster Hiking Trail. Robert Foster Hiking Trail gives you the opportunity to see the diversity of trees Kentucky has to offer and the C.E. Rager Nature trail is a nice short stroll along the shoreline of the lake. Great for poking around and possibly seeing the resident white squirrel of Baileys Point!

    Natural Features

    The 10,000-acre lake is hugged by wooded hillsides in south-central Kentucky. With scenic views from almost every campsite, it's sure to make for a memorable camping experience.

    Nearby Attractions

    Across the lake from Baileys Point is the Barren River Lake State Resort Park, host of the Glasgow Highland Games. Other ramps and marinas close by are Port Oliver, Peninsula, and The Narrows. Not far away are other attractions such as the National Corvette Museum, Kentucky Down Under, Diamond Caverns, and many other day trips within reach. Visitors can explore Mammoth Cave National Park, an hour north of the campground.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation has been created, there will be a $10.00 fee to cancel and a $10.00 fee to change your sites or dates. Cancellations made the day before, or up to the day after your arrival date will also be charged the first nights use fee. No-Shows are charged a $20.00 fee plus the first nights use fee. If your reservation is for 1 night, and you have been charged the first nights use fee, there is no $10.00 service fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Moutardier
    Camper-submitted photo from Moutardier
    Camper-submitted photo from Moutardier
    Camper-submitted photo from Moutardier
    Camper-submitted photo from Moutardier
    Camper-submitted photo from Moutardier

    5. Moutardier

    23 Reviews
    68 Photos
    143 Saves
    Sweeden, Kentucky

    Overview

    Moutardier Campground sits on the shores of Nolin River Lake in the rolling landscape of southern Kentucky. The large lake and surrounding greenery create a recreational oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Click here to take a tour of our lake.

    Recreation

    Known for its unique blue/green water, Nolin Lake is one of the top lakes in Kentucky for catfish, bass, crappie and walleye fishing. Visitors can enjoy scenic canoe and boat trips along the river, part of which is located within Mammoth Cave National Park. Boat ramps are provided around the lake for campers' convenience. The Moutardier, Ponderosa and Wax Marinas are located around the lake and offer pontoon and john boat rentals, as well as boat slips and groceries, bait, gas and more. Several hiking trails also wind along the shoreline and into the surrounding forest. Shady Creek Trail, located within the recreation area, is known for its array of wildflowers and greenery.

    Natural Features

    Nolin Dam creates a 5,795-acre lake that draws more than two million visitors each year to enjoy water sports and camping in the surrounding expanse of rolling forest.

    Nearby Attractions

    Mammoth Cave National Park is located a short drive or ferry ride away from the campground, and several golf courses and riding stables are located around the lake.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (270) 286-4511.

    Charges & Cancellations

    * Once your reservation has been created, there will be a $10.00 fee to cancel and a $10.00 fee to change your sites or dates. * Cancellations made the day before, or up to the day after your arrival date will also be charged the first nights use fee. * No-Shows are charged a $20.00 fee plus the first nights use fee. * If your reservation is for 1 night, and you have been charged the first nights use fee, there is no $10.00 service fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Singing Hills RV Park And Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Singing Hills RV Park And Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Singing Hills RV Park And Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Singing Hills RV Park And Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Singing Hills RV Park And Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Singing Hills RV Park And Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wax - Nolin River Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Wax - Nolin River Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Wax - Nolin River Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Wax - Nolin River Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Wax - Nolin River Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Wax - Nolin River Lake

    7. Wax - Nolin River Lake

    15 Reviews
    45 Photos
    32 Saves
    Sweeden, Kentucky

    Overview

    Wax Campground sits on the shores of Nolin River Lake in the rolling landscape of southern Kentucky. The large lake and surrounding greenery create a recreational oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Click here for a tour of the lake.

    Recreation

    Known for its unique blue/green water, Nolin Lake is one of the top lakes in Kentucky for catfish, bass, crappie, and walleye fishing. Visitors can enjoy scenic canoe and boat trips along the river, part of which is located within Mammoth Cave National Park. Boat ramps are provided around the lake for campers' convenience. The Moutardier, Ponderosa and Wax Marinas are located around the lake and offer pontoon and john boat rentals, as well as boat slips and groceries, bait, gas and more. Several hiking trails also wind along the shoreline and into the surrounding forest. Shady Creek Trail, located within the Moutardier Recreation Area, is known for its array of wildflowers and greenery.

    Natural Features

    Nolin Dam creates a 5,795-acre lake that draws more than two million visitors each year to enjoy water sports and camping in the surrounding expanse of rolling forest.

    Nearby Attractions

    Mammoth Cave National Park is located a short drive or ferry ride away from the campground, and several golf courses and riding stables are located around the lake.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (270) 286-4511.

    Charges & Cancellations

    * Once your reservation has been created, there will be a $10.00 fee to cancel and a $10.00 fee to change your site or dates.* Cancellations made the day before, or up to the day after your arrival date will also be charged the first nights use fee.* No-Shows are charged a $20.00 fee plus the first nights use fee.* If your reservation is for 1 night, and you have been charged the first nights use fee, there is no $10.00 service fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $32 - $38 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Creek Campground

    8. Dog Creek Campground

    14 Reviews
    31 Photos
    52 Saves
    Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

    Overview

    Dog Creek Campground sits on the shores of Nolin River Lake in the rolling landscape of southern Kentucky. The large lake and surrounding greenery create a recreational oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Click here to take a tour of our lake.

    Recreation

    Known for its unique blue/green water, Nolin Lake is one of the top lakes in Kentucky for catfish, bass, crappie and walleye fishing. Visitors can enjoy scenic canoe and boat trips along the river, part of which is located within Mammoth Cave National Park. Boat ramps are provided around the lake for campers' convenience. The Moutardier, Ponderosa and Wax Marinas are located around the lake and offer pontoon and john boat rentals, as well as boat slips and groceries, bait, gas and more. Several hiking trails also wind along the shoreline and into the surrounding forest. Shady Creek Trail, located in the Moutardier Recreation Area, is known for its array of wildflowers and greenery.

    Natural Features

    Nolin Dam creates a 5,795-acre lake that draws more than two million visitors each year to enjoy water sports and camping in the surrounding expanse of rolling forest.

    Nearby Attractions

    Mammoth Cave National Park is located a short drive or ferry ride away from the campground, and several golf courses and riding stables are located around the lake.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (270) 286-4511.

    Charges & Cancellations

    *Once your reservation has been created, there will be a $10.00 fee to cancel and a $10.00 fee to change your site or dates. * Cancellations made the day before, or up to the day after your arrival date will also be charged the first nights use fee. * No-Shows are charged a $20.00 fee plus the first nights use fee. * If your reservation is for 1 night, and you have been charged the first nights use fee, there is no $10.00 service fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Maple Springs Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maple Springs Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maple Springs Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maple Springs Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maple Springs Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maple Springs Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    9. Maple Springs Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    12 Reviews
    35 Photos
    84 Saves
    Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

    Overview

    At Maple Springs, visitors can enjoy the serenity of the campground and surrounding backcountry trails, or spend their days exploring Mammoth Cave. Campers can explore up to ten miles of the cave through a variety of tours available at the Visitor Center. With more than 400 miles (644 km) of mapped passageways, Mammoth Cave ranks as the world's longest known cave system. Mammoth Cave is named for its grand size and scale. Visit the Rotunda for an idea of just how large this underground world is. The World Heritage Site was explored by Native Americans more than 2,000 years ago, and Europeans discovered its existence at the turn of the 19th century.

    Recreation

    Avid horseback riders head to Maple Springs to explore the lush backcountry trails. Hikers will also find these trails enjoyable.

    Natural Features

    This campground is part of Mammoth Cave National Park, a 52,800-acre park that includes the Green River Valley, rolling Kentucky hillsides, and the expansive Mammoth Cave with grand-scale chambers and long, winding passageways. This remote campsite is quiet, peaceful and ideal for those who want to be immersed in nature. Wildlife includes deer, turkey, and coyotes.

    Nearby Attractions

    Take a tour of Mammoth Cave and see landmark cave areas like the Cathedral Domes and Mammoth's famous formation, Frozen Niagara. Or hike above the caverns to explore sinkholes like Cedar Sink.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Group Facilities - Overnight -$10.00 cancellation fee AND forfeit the first night's use recreation use fee if cancelled less than 14 days before the arrival date (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). For rules and reservation policies please follow the link below: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Country RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Country RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Country RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Country RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Country RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Country RV Campground

    10. Cave Country RV Campground

    13 Reviews
    31 Photos
    34 Saves
    Cave City, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 66 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Mammoth Cave National Park

Recent Reviews in Mammoth Cave National Park

575 Reviews of 66 Mammoth Cave National Park Campgrounds


  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowling Green KOA
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Bowling Green KOA

    Nice KOA

    This KOA was easy to find by following our GPS. We checked in about 45 minutes prior to their 1:00 PM check in time and they didn’t even mention us being early. We decided we didn’t need an escort to our site as it was near the office. We proceeded to deluxe-patio pull-through site H-4 with FHUs. The utilities were nicely placed in the middle of the pad. Water pressure was good at about 50 psi. This site has plenty of shade as does most sites in the campground (CG) due to mature trees, so we did not put out Starlink. We got 4 bars LTE on Verizon and used our MiFi versus Starlink. Site H-4 has a utility box on the yard side, so we had extra space between the adjacent site. They have a decent sized dog park with an agility set up. This KOA has a lot of amenities and lives up to a Holiday KOA rating. The dog park is a nice size. They have a decent laundry room behind the office with 4 washers and 8 dryers. It’s$2.50 to wash and$1.50 to dry. They have 2 fishing ponds. The large one you can keep 2 fish for$20 and the small one is catch and release. There’s some traffic noise from I-65 and surrounding roads. Our main reason to visit the area was to visit the National Corvette Museum. We enjoyed our two night stay.

  • Alex M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Heartland RV Park
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Heartland RV Park

    A great place

    I am a long term camper. This park has all the utilities water, electric, sewer. I haven't had issues with the free wifi and am able to stream movies and TV with no buffering.

    They have a community building with restrooms, showers, laundry, kitchen area, and mail pick up. They also have an outdoor community area with a fire pit, lounge chairs, and grill.

    They have been having events for the children. Movie night, outdoor games, and a camp fire with smores.

    It's quiet and 5 minutes away from town. Door dash delivers.

    The manager is a sweetheart and makes sure any issues are taken care of.

  • amna S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

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  • amna S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    seo

    Thank you for your article. 4.0 gpa scale We had similar issues when we created our GPA calculator to help students evaluate their academic performance by converting letter grades to a numerical scale. This is to convert a Grade GPA 4.0 system where an"A" equals 4.0 and an"F" equals 0. To calculate GPA: assign points to each grade based on the course credits, sum these points, and divide by the total credits attempted. Or, use our free GPA to Letter grade conversion chart and GPA Calculator.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jellystone Park at Mamoth Cave
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Jellystone Park at Mamoth Cave

    Can’t beat the Location, Amenities & Proximity

    We’re staying one night for Mammoth Cave and added a second night thanks to the activities offered. For a family that usually only spends one night that’s a big deal. The kids are super excited to do the lake inflatable course and have already enjoyed the nice playground and bouncing pad. We chose a standard site so I didn’t expect much. For the price it’s great to have all the hookups but it’s not level at all. I parked at an angle, propped up the front and our full slide gives it a wonky tilt so got it pretty good. It could probably use another level of blocks at the front. Just wonky sites. But nice and wide

  • c
    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    Great Campground and Location

    We really enjoyed the four days we spent at the Mammoth Caves Campground, right in the national park. I have to correct some information on this listing, though. There are no electric hookups. There is water available at spots throughout the campground, but not at the sites. There is one difficult to use dump station. Also, internet connections are terrible. You need to rely on the WiFi at the visitor center and lodge.

    Setting that aside, it’s a beautiful, wooded campground with large and generally level sites. You’re right in the middle of the park, with all it has to offer. Its about a ten-twelve minute walk to the Visitor Center, which is where all the cave tours and many of the hiking trails start. The Visitor Center also has a great exhibit explaining the geology and history of the park and area. It is connected by a pedestrian bridge to the park lodge, which has several restaurants. Both buildings are wonderfully air conditioned, which helped a lot in the August heat.

    Also helping with the heat are the caves themselves, which are spectacular and not to be missed. Other activities right in the park are lots of hiking opportunities and canoe and kayak rental.

    There are modern and very clean bathrooms throughout the campground. It’s a mystery why they didn’t include showers when they built those bathrooms. Instead there are paid showers in the building housing the camp store. You insert six quarters and get a decent amount of time. For me, this was the only real downside of the campground, one I could put up with given all the other advantages.

    Site 35B was a great site and was next to a small field, giving us extra space and privacy.

  • Holdun R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Horse Cave KOA
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Horse Cave KOA

    Wonderful!!

    I stayed in spot 87 for 4 days. It was a clean camp with all kinds of variety of camping spots. The only reason is not getting 5 stars is bc it's right on the Interstate, and that noise wasn't the most peaceful. There were a ton of things for kids and families to do. There was a pool, playground, pond, etc. There were some really cool wagon tents, teepee's, and actual tree houses.

  • Aimee H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wax - Nolin River Lake
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Wax - Nolin River Lake

    Beautiful views

    This is one of the cleanest campgrounds with excellent water views and you can pull your kayaks or floats into the river from your site..clean river lots of fisherman out ..we are in the C loop C007 and the site is amazing there are many riverside sites but some are primitive so make sure to double check

  • Erich H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowling Green KOA
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Bowling Green KOA

    A must stay to enjoy that KOA feeling

    After completing the warranty work at Camping World, we enjoyed this fabulous campground for two months. 

    The vibe is great, the campground is clean, and the office staff is fabulous. We enjoyed playing putt-putt golf and fishing in the catch-and-release and paid ponds. 

    Be sure to check out the Flight Museum across the street, the Corvette Museum, and the friendly people in the area.

    The only downside is at night due to the road noise from the I-65/I-165 split.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge
    Jul. 20, 2024

    COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge

    Nothing ever fixed

    This campground is clean and the campsites are decent. However, our campsite had two stumps there were hard to work around when backing up the camper in the dark. If you need to use the showers or bathroom, they never fix anything. One bathroom hasn’t had electric in two years and another women’s bathroom only has hot water in one shower and the hand dryers don’t work.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Singing Hills RV Park And Campground
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Singing Hills RV Park And Campground

    Amazing Service Very Close to Mammoth Cave NP

    We stayed at Singing Hills for three nights while visiting Mammoth Cave NP. Beth was super helpful via email even before our arrival with advice on tour tickets. My wife has mobility issues and she had good suggestions for us.

    Eldon checked us in and gave us recommendations for restaurants which were outstanding. I'm quite sure that our truck is now over-gross :-P

    The camping was just fine. Grounds are well tended. Spaces are gravel. Water, sewer, and electric all did what they should.

    The next time we are in the area, we will definitely return to Singing Hills.

  • Richard Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Longview RV Park
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Longview RV Park

    Great hidden Rv resort

    Nice RV resort off of I65 in Elizabeth Town KY. Stayed a week and it was a quiet park and the staff was helpful and friendly.

  • Josie W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    Great Choice

    We loved our visit here! We stayed two nights with our dog and felt very safe. Campsites appear close at first but actually felt comfortably private. People walk and bike along the roads and it felt very friendly. Bathrooms are clean and cool. There’s a camp store, Caver’s, with food, souvenirs, showers, and bathroom. Super close to the visiting center for tours.

  • joseph B.
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Rough River Lake Axtel Campground
    Jul. 10, 2024

    COE Rough River Lake Axtel Campground

    Depends on the spot

    Overall this campground is peaceful, but very crowded with a lot of spots in one area.  I was lucky enough to book a double spot that had some space between the other campsites with a good view of the lake.  Great amenities.

  • joseph B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Moutardier
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Moutardier

    Decent

    This campground has tried to cram as many people into it at one time as possible.  Sites are very close to each other that you could hear your neighbor burp or fart at any time day or night.  Otherwise, the campground is clean with good amenities.  If you are lucky enough to get a lake side spot, the views are good, but again, you will have neighbors.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Jellystone Park at Mamoth Cave
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Jellystone Park at Mamoth Cave

    Just Okay

    Bit over priced. It went up each night we stayed. We had a fifth wheel on a standard gravel 30/50 amp site. Full hook up. Advertised internet but there wasn’t any in the section we stayed. There was a little shade in our area. The whole place is alternated by cabins and camping sites. There is grass between every site. Plenty of playgrounds, a pool and pond/beach. Golf cart rentals are $55 per day and people run them all day and night. Golf carts were playing music at midnight. This place does not sleep. And if you bring dogs, you must physically show them the rabies tag, they don’t check their email. Even though you pick a spot on their map they will change you to a different spot unless you pay the $35 extra to “lock in” a specific spot.

  • Lindsey M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge
    May. 27, 2024

    COE Green River Lake Smith Ridge

    Great location and power supply issues

    Location was excellent, close to the water. They have a known power issue, 30amp service went out several times at the pole. Their solution was to use less appliances. There are other campgrounds on the lake that I would choose instead of this one for that reason. The site itself was fine, and if not for the power issues we would come back.

  • Hannah F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Nolin Lake State Park Campground
    Apr. 15, 2024

    Nolin Lake State Park Campground

    Proximity to Mammoth Cave

    Pros: very well maintained facilities, toddlers enjoyed playground, able to walk along lake shore, could hear small waterfall behind our campsite, within 20 minutes of Mammoth Cave NP via Green River Ferry Con: sites nothing special for tent camping (probably great if in RV). Very sunny, out in open so windy. But nice to have electric and water when camping with toddlers so worth it. Would agree with previous review that the 1 tent site among all the electric sites looked beautiful- right on the water. If you don’t need electric, go with that one!



Guide to Mammoth Cave National Park

Camping near Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and natural beauty. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and explore the wonders of the park.

What to do:

  • Explore Mammoth Cave: The main attraction is, of course, the cave itself. Many campers enjoy the easy access to cave tours. One visitor at Mammoth Cave Campground mentioned, "You’re right in the middle of the park, with all it has to offer."
  • Hiking: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. A reviewer at Nolin Lake State Park Campground noted, "Great location walkable to the camp store, lodge, visitor center, and cave tours."
  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Rent a canoe or kayak for a fun day on the water. A visitor at Kentucky Nolin Lake State Park shared, "We could hear a small waterfall behind our campsite, able to walk along the lake shore."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Kentucky Nolin Lake State Park Campground highlighted, "The bathrooms were cleaned regularly. The showers were hot and free!"
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many visitors enjoy the welcoming vibe. One camper at Baileys Point said, "Staff is awesome and super friendly."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers often mention the roomy sites. A reviewer at Moutardier Campground remarked, "Very clean with the cleanest bathrooms and showers I have ever encountered in any campground."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Mammoth Cave Campground pointed out, "There are no electric hookups... internet connections are terrible."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busy campgrounds in the summer. A camper at COE Rough River Lake Axtel Campground noted, "The campground was pretty full even though it was mid-week."
  • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. A reviewer at Wax - Nolin River Lake mentioned, "The ground is red muddy clay if it rains."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. A family at Kentucky Nolin Lake State Park Campground enjoyed, "Toddlers enjoyed the playground."
  • Safety and Comfort: Choose campgrounds that feel secure. A visitor at Mammoth Cave Campground felt, "We stayed two nights with our dog and felt very safe."
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have stores for snacks and essentials. A camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park mentioned, "The facility was very clean and staff very respectful."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Kentucky Moutardier advised, "The road in/out is very narrow, very tight and not easily navigated with a 40' 5th wheel."
  • Dump Station Location: Be aware of dump station accessibility. A camper at COE Rough River Lake Axtel Campground noted, "The dump station could be better located."
  • Wi-Fi Availability: Some campgrounds offer Wi-Fi, but it may not be reliable. A visitor at Singing Hills Campground mentioned, "The free WiFi Speedtest... frequently drops out."

Camping near Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Mammoth Cave National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Mammoth Cave National Park offers a wide range of camping options, with 66 campgrounds and RV parks near Mammoth Cave National Park and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Mammoth Cave National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mammoth Cave National Park is Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 137 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mammoth Cave National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Mammoth Cave National Park.

  • What parks are near Mammoth Cave National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Mammoth Cave National Park that allow camping, notably Nolin River Lake and Barren River Lake.