Best Tent Camping near Grayson Lake in Kentucky

Looking for the best Grayson Lake tent camping? The Dyrt helps you find campsites near Grayson Lake with tent camping. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Grayson Lake (22)

    Sandra&Dunn's photo of tent camping at The Ole Cornfield near Salt Lick, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at The Ole Cornfield near Salt Lick, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at The Ole Cornfield near Salt Lick, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at The Ole Cornfield near Salt Lick, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at The Ole Cornfield near Salt Lick, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at The Ole Cornfield near Salt Lick, KY

    1. The Ole Cornfield

    9 Reviews
    37 Photos
    52 Saves
    Salt Lick, Kentucky

    Local Family Owned & Operated est.2012 Riverside Campground RV & Tent Camping 50amp, 30amp, 110v NEW Bathhouse Kayak/Canoe Rental & Shuttle Service

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    Kevin C.'s photo of tent camping at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY

    2. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    43 Photos
    85 Saves
    Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

    Paragon is a primitive camping area with 7 designated campsites, some with lantern posts and fire rings. Alert: August 21, 2019 - The U.S. Forest Service opened a section of Paragon Road on Friday, August 16, 2019. The gate closest to Highway 519 was opened and motor vehicles will be able to drive to the first two loops commonly used for camping, swimming, and fishing. The new gate has been installed to allow vehicle access into the area while road work and repairs continue. The new gate will also allow the two camping loops to remain open when Cave Run Lake is 1.5 to 2 feet above summer pool and inundating the lowest portions of Paragon Road, which has occurred many times in the last decade and resulted in closure of the entire road and camping area. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your trip to this area. Learn more... The campground is located on the Cumberland Ranger District, Daniel Boone National Forest. Cave Run Lake is widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities. The lake is also the home of Kentucky's state record muskie.This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. Nearby facilities: Poppin Rock Boat Ramp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Wayne H.'s photo of tent camping at Red River Gorge Campground near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Campground near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Campground near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Campground near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Campground near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Campground near Slade, KY

    3. Red River Gorge Campground

    22 Reviews
    124 Photos
    389 Saves
    Slade, Kentucky

    Red River Gorge Campground is known for its picturesque surroundings and range of outdoor activities. The campground is located in the heart of Red River Gorge, a geological wonderland with soaring sandstone cliffs, natural arches and deep gorges. The area is popular with hikers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous trails for all levels of experience, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking and fishing. Red River Gorge Campground provides a one-of-a-kind camping experience in Kentucky.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 / night

    Jeremy C.'s photo of tent camping at Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza) near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza) near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza) near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza) near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza) near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza) near Slade, KY

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

    19 Reviews
    36 Photos
    84 Saves
    Slade, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Knob Loop Campground near Pedro, OH

    5. Pine Knob Loop Campground

    1 Review
    9 Saves
    Pedro, Ohio

    The Wayne National Forest have been working to repair a major waterline break at Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area. This will affect the timely opening of all campgrounds at Lake Vesuvius. At this time, campgrounds are scheduled to reopen Friday, May 22nd, unless repairs are completed sooner. All affected customers’ reservations prior to 5/22/2020 will be fully refunded.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Toilets
    Wayne H.'s photo of tent camping at Red River Gorge Adventures near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Adventures near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Adventures near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Adventures near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Adventures near Slade, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Red River Gorge Adventures near Slade, KY

    6. Red River Gorge Adventures

    8 Reviews
    43 Photos
    94 Saves
    Slade, Kentucky

    The campground is on 10 acres of tree lined frontage on the Red River. There is a mix of trees/shade and open fields. It is a primitive campground, meaning that there are no power hook-ups or running water. There is an excellent canoe/kayak take-out. It's location in the heart of the Gorge makes it the perfect place for riverside camping and provides access to hiking trails.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $8 - $20 / night

    John's photo of tent camping at Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp near Salt Lick, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp near Salt Lick, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp near Salt Lick, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp near Salt Lick, KY
    Camper-submitted photo at Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp near Salt Lick, KY

    7. Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    6 Saves
    Salt Lick, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo at Lawrence County Recreation Area near Adams, KY

    8. Lawrence County Recreation Area

    Be the first to review!
    Adams, Kentucky

    This recreation area is part of Yatesville Lake

    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Pleasant Ridge near Adams, KY

    9. Pleasant Ridge

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    1 Save
    Adams, Kentucky

    This recreation area is part of Yatesville Lake

    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at North Fork near Clearfield, KY

    10. North Fork

    Be the first to review!
    5 Saves
    Clearfield, Kentucky
    • Tents
    • Toilets
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Showing results 1-10 of 22 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Grayson Lake

567 Reviews of 22 Grayson Lake Campgrounds


  • Melissa W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Grayson Lake State Park Campground
    Sep. 17, 2021

    Grayson Lake State Park Campground

    Good location, ok campground

    Negatives: This campground is pretty hilly. Many of the spots don't have a great space for a tent. The flattest spots are in the middle of the circle with an open field behind them (but then you won't have any privacy or tree coverage). Even the RV camping on the inside of the loop across from us had its front tires suspended about a foot in the air to make it level though. Considering the flat spots are very limited, I don't think its a great tent campground and geared more towards RVs. One side of the campground runs against a golf course. If you're tent camping over a weekend, be prepared to have golfers tee-ing off next to you beginning at 7am. On Monday morning, be prepared for them to start mowing at 7am. The opposite side of the campground sits against a tree-line and therefore has much better spots. Many of the picnic tables are in pretty rough shape. The ones that have been replaced were done with the metal style that is dipped in plastic and are much sturdier. Likewise, some of the firepits are in pretty bad shape. I'd recommend having a grill grate with you just in case if you cook over the fire like we do. The firewood that is sold at the campground is kept in a shed but it was very wet, there also aren't any options around for buying wood outside the park. The office is supposed to be open until 6pm but one night it was closed earlier and the camp host wasn't on premises all weekend so we were stuck resorting to finding and burning downfall to get dinner cooked. 

    The positives: Its a good location and there are plenty of kayaking spots on Grayson Lake. Going to "The Grotto" aka Clifty Falls is a must (4.5 mile round trip). The same boat ramp has a decent place to get in and swim. Lick Falls Loop hike can be done from the campground and was nice (4.5 miles). We also kayaked the Southern portion of Grayson Lake in Laurel Gorge and that was much quieter than the Clifty Falls area. The campground bathrooms were clean. Most of the campsites were a decent size.

  • Frank H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Springs Campground
    Aug. 7, 2021

    Sandy Springs Campground

    Nice campground

    This was the last campground before returning home from a month long camping road trip across the country and back. Picturesque camp directly on the Ohio River. Very level. Small campground with about 40 sites. Basically all sites are for RVs and equipped with electrical and water and most with sewer. We were tent camping and set up and a very soft & thick grassy space on one of the empty sites. The owners plan to install dedicated tent sites along the edge of the woods. There is a camp store with most needed items. Ice and firewood sold. Very spacious and individual toilet and shower & sink rooms. Good showers with plenty of hot water. Playground for children. Volleyball for anyone. Dumpster for trash. Great people. Easy to make reservations.

  • Kaylien S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Lake State Park Campground
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Jackson Lake State Park Campground

    Do not recommend

    Tent sites are on a steep uneven hill, we had site 4. Tent sites are super close, we can hear our neighbors perfectly as if they were talking to us. Only a few feet between each site. Map showed we would be right next to the lake, this is incorrect, lake is not accessible or even visible from campsite.

  • Tammy G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Carter Caves State Resort Park
    Jul. 8, 2018

    Carter Caves State Resort Park

    good campground

    something for everyone ,rv to tent camping...also cabins and a lodge is available for reservations. great dinning at lodge. wonderful hiking trails...And cave tours.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee State Park Campground
    Jun. 6, 2023

    Shawnee State Park Campground

    Amazing tent sites, for Ohio

    Tent camping sites were set back, in the woods, down a private path (about 75’) and totally secluded.

    The park had a clean, nice outdoor movie theater, mini golf, and a lake with rentables.

  • Sara S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Paintsville Lake State Park Campground
    Jul. 31, 2016

    Paintsville Lake State Park Campground

    walk in

    This park is so beautiful in autumn! Even if a person comes for a picnic only a couple of hours they will enjoy the scenery. The hike-in tent sites are nice. I did expect a bit more privacy from a walk-in site but it was not busy when we were there, so it wasn’t a great issue. If it was busy, that may have impacted our experience greatly! There is a nice dock area if you have a boat otherwise there isn’t a whole lot to do (no hiking or anything like that). But an okay place to escape for a bit :) (the photo posted by another reviewer is a great view of the tent sites!)

  • Crystal S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Jun. 21, 2018

    Red River Gorge Campground

    Spring visit

    We fell in love with The Gorge in April and will be back in September and at Christmas! Several kid friendly (ages 8, 4, & 2) spots and while we went the cabin route, we'll be tent camping next round!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area
    Oct. 12, 2023

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Beautiful Area

    Stayed on the F Loop next to the lake, fire pit, picnic table, level tent site and bathroom showers a short walk. Camp hosts very friendly and helpful. campsite are close together.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee State Park Campground
    Jul. 1, 2018

    Shawnee State Park Campground

    Pumba was next door.

    Very friendly staff. We checked in early evening for an over night on our x country trip after visiting Serpent Mound NatIonal monument. Good Tent site with electric. Good bathhouse and quiet on Tuesday.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area
    Jul. 31, 2019

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Beautiful!

    Grew up going here and still to this day it is my absolute favorite place to camp. You can tent camp which is what we did growing up or you places for campers. Most of all of the sites are shaded. Close walk to the lake with quite a few walking trails. Nice bathhouse’s.

  • Ko L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Zilpo Campground

    A feel of wild camping

    The site I m at H37 is perfect site for tent camp which is a step below road level give you a necessary privacy you look and shade while you are camping . Only downside picnic table broken . The shower room is ok to do its job but which might need some maintenance. As two of 3 showers were broken .

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Jun. 12, 2019

    The Ole Cornfield

    Great place to unwind and enjoy the river.

    The campground is brand new and it has new bath/shower houses.  It has 10 RV sites and riverside tent sites.  The sites are level and pull through with 50 amp service.  There is city water available and a dump station.  Very clean place and the staff are great to work with.  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.  It is great for beginning kayakers.  The tent sites along the river are so peaceful with the river running below you.  There is a lot to do in the area with Cave Run Lake for water adventures and Lockegee Rock and the Sheltowee Trail for hiking.  The Licking River has several fish species from the fun to catch bluegill to the Muskellunge.  This is a must see place that I will definitely return to.

  • s
    Camper-submitted photo from Huntington / Fox Fire KOA
    Jul. 30, 2022

    Huntington / Fox Fire KOA

    A cozy, busy campground

    This campground has excellent customer service. The crew are stoked to be there and it showed. Tent camping had its downfall. I had a tent pad, which was a great choice because the ground was soggy from rainfall earlier in the day. The proximity to the road and the loud night critters kept me up for a few hours after dark. Other than this, it was a great quick one night stay!

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
    Aug. 23, 2020

    Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    Super!

    Stayed 2 nights mid week and campground wasn’t busy. Many nice tent sites and also good level RV sites. Easy access to hiking. Helpful resident manager. Management by Thousand Trails, although the campground is not associated at all with Thousand Trails. No reservations accepted. Self register and pay at the entrance.

  • Wayne H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Knobs Recreation Area
    Sep. 1, 2019

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Twin Knobs

    This drive in camp site is a pay only and it’s best to call a couple weeks before your trip to reserve you spot! You can tent camp, pop up, or set up your pull behind. Twin Knobs is very clean and spacious campsites and most are on the water! This campground has basketball courts, a beach area, restrooms and more. Pet friendly but must stay on a leash.

  • Lisa S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area
    Apr. 7, 2019

    Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area

    Perfect Family Destination

    This Recreation Area offers hiking trails, picnic opportunities, along with shelter house rentals for those family get togethers. The damn provides an excellent place for photos, while the lake is excellent for fishing and birdwatching. Year-round Campground with Electric, tent sites are also available. Perfect quiet area for a family day trip or spending a few days.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Oct. 12, 2021

    Red River Gorge Campground

    Red river gorge

    Well traveled trails easily followed. Clean campground. Very scenic as one would expect. Local food is good a lot of small mom an pop establishments. 30/50 amp service at most if the campgrounds all have tent camping. Cell service is very spotty WiFi was the same pet friendly. Did see signs for ADA sites. Found food and supplies available found a few outfitters for camping and rafting gear

  • H
    Camper-submitted photo from Carter Caves State Resort Park
    Sep. 24, 2020

    Carter Caves State Resort Park

    Great park

    The park was beautiful and on a Tuesday/ Wednesday the tent sites were practically empty. Some sites are much more level than others, mine(114) wasn’t very level but was ok. The trails are beautiful definitely recommend the 4Cs trail if you have time they also had a cute little gift shop at the entrance. I definitely would bring your own firewood theirs that you can purchase wouldn’t light for anything..

  • Emily M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carter Caves State Resort Park
    Nov. 7, 2022

    Carter Caves State Resort Park

    Just okay

    The coolest things about this campground are the access to caves and hikes. Tent sites are closer together than photos made it seem. It wasn’t BAD but it also wasn’t my favorite campground I’ve ever been to. Bathrooms were fine. Firewood was expensive but there isn’t another place to buy that’s close, so prepare for that. $25 for 3 bundles. Best sites are 102 or 100. Campground is patrolled often by security/staff (?)

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Carter Caves State Resort Park
    Sep. 30, 2016

    Carter Caves State Resort Park

    Geology and forests

    Definitely get a tour of the caves while you’re here. Camping is among the trees without much geology to see nearby. Pros: nice tent-only loop, very forested, fairly private tent sites, wildlife, many activities (hiking, cave tours, fishing, kayak rentals, swim, put-put, ranger talks), especially friendly & informed guides/caretakers, horse camp is far enough away to not smell like a farm. Cons: pool was a little too chaotic for us (but that’s typical), campground is bustling during the day but quieted down well at sunset.

  • Chris M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Yatesville Lake State Park Campground
    Jul. 17, 2020

    Yatesville Lake State Park Campground

    Great camping on the lake

    Camping: As far as camping goes there’s a little variety. On top of the hill there is camper sites with full hook ups which is actually quite spacious and spaced out from other sites compared to other campgrounds, but some sites are better than others of course. There is also primitive tent camping on top of the hill, but appeared slightly cramped. In my opinion the best sites are the boat in tent camping sites down the hill by the lake. The sites also run along a gravel rode that can be used to hike in. All sites throughout have fine gravel pad, picnic table, a fire ring and access to numerous bathrooms of which have a compost toilet and running water for the sink. Camp staff will deliver ice or firewood to any site if requested. Extras: The main attraction is the lake of course which is quite clean for swimming, boating or fishing, but can be a little busy at times. There are a few hiking trails near by, but I wouldn’t come here for that. There is a golf course and I did notice, but didn’t get to check out, there is a place called The Cove at Yatesville lake that has a beach for swimming with climbable inflatables in the water, kayak rentals and among other things. Conclusion: A great local place to have fun on a lake, but not somewhere I’d travel an extended distance to see.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carter Caves State Resort Park
    Oct. 4, 2023

    Carter Caves State Resort Park

    Fun fall getaway

    We went with three small kids. Great facilities, hiking, caving etc. We plan to return because two nights was not nearly enough to do all the things we wanted to. The tent sites are close together so we may not have enjoyed it as much if it were busier but we were lucky enough to get a site with no immediate neighbors. Pictures online made it appear that tree cover was not as good as it actually was.


Guide to Grayson Lake

Tent camping near Grayson Lake in Kentucky offers a serene escape into nature, with various campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful retreat.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • The Lawrence County Recreation Area provides a rustic experience with no electric hookups, making it perfect for those who enjoy a true back-to-basics camping adventure.
  • At Pleasant Ridge, campers can enjoy a tranquil setting without the distractions of modern amenities, allowing for a more immersive nature experience.
  • The North Fork campground features toilets, ensuring basic sanitation while maintaining a primitive camping atmosphere.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Unique features of the campgrounds

  • The Free Spirit Homestead allows campfires, creating a cozy atmosphere for evening gatherings under the stars.
  • Campers at The Ole Cornfield can enjoy electric hookups and clean facilities, making it a well-reviewed choice for those who want a bit more comfort while still enjoying the outdoors.
  • The Pine Knob Loop Campground is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Grayson Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Grayson Lake is The Ole Cornfield with a 5-star rating from 9 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Grayson Lake?

    TheDyrt.com has all 22 tent camping locations near Grayson Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.