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Best Campgrounds in Kentucky

2,578 Reviews

Kentucky's public lands feature a mix of established campgrounds and primitive sites spanning diverse landscapes from Daniel Boone National Forest to Mammoth Cave National Park. Campgrounds like Twin Knobs Recreation Area and Zilpo Campground provide accessible options for various camping styles including tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Kentucky Horse Park Campground near Lexington offers year-round camping, while several locations in Daniel Boone National Forest provide more secluded experiences with fewer amenities but greater immersion in natural surroundings.

Most Kentucky campgrounds operate seasonally with many state park facilities open from April through October. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly at popular locations near water features or during peak summer months. Access roads to developed campgrounds are generally well-maintained, while dispersed sites may require vehicles with higher clearance. A camper noted, "The road coming in is a little washed out but not too pitted. I'd recommend AWD/4WD and 8+ inches of clearance, especially if it has rained because it's pretty steep in sections." Weather considerations include humid summers and occasionally stormy spring conditions that may affect camping comfort and accessibility.

Waterfront camping represents a significant draw throughout Kentucky, with several campgrounds situated near lakes and rivers. Zilpo and Twin Knobs campgrounds near Cave Run Lake receive high ratings from visitors who appreciate the combination of water activities and forest surroundings. According to one visitor, "One picnic table and fire pit. Dispersed camping. We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening." Campgrounds with electric hookups and improved amenities tend to fill quickly during summer weekends. Primitive tent camping in more remote areas provides greater solitude but requires self-sufficiency. Kentucky's mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed sites accommodates various camping preferences, with the most developed facilities offering amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and camp stores, while remote sites provide a more traditional outdoor experience with minimal infrastructure.

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Best Camping Sites in Kentucky (429)

    1. Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    137 Reviews
    Mammoth Cave, KY
    +1 (270) 758-2424

    $25 - $50 / night

    "This campground is a walking distance to the visitors center. It's a well established campground and geared towards folks visiting mammoth caves."

    "green river, which was enjoyed by all, and we appreciated avoiding the main entrance besieged by spring break campers!"

    2. Zilpo Campground

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

    $28 - $94 / night

    "Having recently moved to Kentucky from California was so happy to get to camp in another season besides summer."

    "E-12 was close enough to the bathrooms that it wasn’t a bad walk but we didn’t have to smell anything. Water pump was across from the campsite. Plenty of space for four tents. Sturdy pic-nic table."

    3. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    +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. Kentucky Horse Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Georgetown, KY
    Website
    +1 (859) 259-4257

    $35 - $38 / night

    "I'll preface this with the fact that I am a Lexington, KY Native and have always lived close to the Kentucky Horse Park and Kentucky Horse Park Campground, but have never stayed there until this weekend"

    "Clean bathrooms and sites, within easy walking distance to the Kentucky Horse Park. Pay attention to which site you pick- if you’re in c loop, it’s a long walk to the bathroom!"

    5. Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Olive Hill, KY
    Website
    +1 (606) 286-4411

    $20 - $120 / night

    "Water was running over the edges of cliffs and boulders throughout the park into the river that flows through the park."

    "Lots to do within walking distance of the campground too."

    6. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground

    45 Reviews
    Patriot, IN
    Website
    +1 (859) 384-3522

    $35 / night

    "There’s also some hiking and biking trails accessible from the main turnoff from the highway, so there’s plenty to do in the area if you’re stopping on through or staying a few days."

    "we really enjoyed Big Bone. we went to their museum center on Saturday afternoon and walked the Bison trail to see the baby bison they had at the time. it was nice to have something different to do."

    7. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    43 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    Website
    +1 (606) 780-7818

    $31 - $128 / night

    "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."

    "Amenities are near enough if you forget something, you'd never know staying here that there is a Walmart about 20 minutes away if you forget something important."

    8. Nolin Lake State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Sweeden, KY
    Website
    +1 (270) 286-4240

    $25 - $40 / night

    "Near Brownsville, Ky and a little off the beaten path. But definitely worth a visit or two."

    "This lakeside getaway is one that will keep us coming back!! If you've never been to Kentucky...this will keep you coming back to the Bluegrass to camp for years to come!"

    9. Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

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

    $20 - $30 / night

    "I would rank the Red River Gorge area as the most beautiful place in the Kentucky. Any time I get the chance to head out this way, I do."

    "Pros: clean bath house, convenient to SUP Kentucky/Gorge underground, level sites (smaller though) Cons: traffic noise, no cell service (which is a pro for some)"

    10. Hillman Ferry Campground

    38 Reviews
    Grand Rivers, KY
    Website
    +1 (270) 924-2000

    "Hillman Ferry is the northernmost full service campground in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and is an excellent base camp for exploring the LBL and other recreation opportunities in"

    "This campsite is located in beautiful Land Between the Lakes. Many sites are by reservation, but many more are first come first serve. Sites are big and open and some provide views of Kentucky Lake."

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Recent Camping Photos in Kentucky

710 Photos of 429 Kentucky Campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Kentucky

2578 Reviews of 429 Kentucky Campgrounds

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground

    So perfect

    This place has clean bathrooms, wifi, secluded spots on the river to fish. Enough space for group camping too. Pick the spot the stump of banks end for the best river side spot. Book on Hipcamp! The host is amazing and delivers anything you need. Firewood, fishing bait, even fresh chicken eggs from the farm. Also does dog grooming! And you can book extra to spend time with the fluffy cows! Close to Cumberland falls!

  • Paulene T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 26, 2025

    Singing Hills RV Park And Campground

    Nice little park just a short drive from I65

    Over night stay. Called to reserve a spot and arrived just before dusk. Had a quick check in, found our spot and had a quick set up for a short overnight stay. Lovely quiet park and great hosts. Would stay here again.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Pioneer Playhouse Campground

    More Like a Homeless Camp Than an RV Park

    It was a complete mess and the area looked neglected. To make things worse, the staff were rude and unhelpful when we asked questions. Definitely not a place we’d recommend.

  • Jessica V.
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Rustling Pines Campground LLC

    Love this place!

    The site was beautiful and I absolutely loved the personal care. They called to make sure I had everything in order and drove us down to the campsite.

  • John D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    John James Audubon State Park Campground

    Last Time

    This is the 3rd or 4th time. Usually last stop before home. 3pm on Saturday and not one staff on site when we arrived. Car on loop area making it hard to get trailer into site, just missing the car with my truck. No picnic table at site so unable to get grill out. 15-20 trailers resting on blocks and above ground dump at each site. Large propane tanks. Looks like permanent sites and most didn't have anyone there. A bit disappointed

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Rock Cabin Camping

    Friendly, easygoing, simple camping

    Absolutely love staying here. Quiet, pretty, easy, and the owners and staff are delightful.

  • s
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Relode BaseCamp

    Perfect small campground

    Bathhouse is immaculate! Super clean facilities! Also laundry available for a small fee, picnic pavilion for all guest with starlink internet FREE! Cheap and affordable place great for families or just a trip for 1! Pet friendly, and beautiful pond! Quiet, off the beaten path, affordable!

  • SkywaystoHighways.com Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Hillman Ferry Campground

    Peaceful Lakeside Camping

    We enjoyed our weekend stay during the HTC-E campout. Staff were very helpful and friendly. The camps grounds were clean and free of debris. Free showers with plenty of hot water, good water pressure. There was a strange phenomena of dead gnats/flying things on the ladies bathroom counter each morning. Not sure if someone sprayed each night… The lake was low, which we were told was common for this time of year as the dam level gets adjusted after Labor Day weekend. Still enough water for kayaking. This campground is very large so the golf cart rental was worth the $80 p/day fee. All in all, a great visit to Land O’ Lake. Check out our video on YouTube at Skyways to Highways.

Guide to Kentucky

Camping in Kentucky offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Bluegrass State.

What to do

  • Explore the Bourbon Trail: Many campgrounds are near distilleries. For example, at Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground, campers can easily visit local distilleries. One reviewer mentioned, “We want to return and visit more Bourbon Trail Distilleries.”
  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Campgrounds like Green River Lake State Park Campground offer beautiful trails. A visitor noted, “The lake is really pretty, the showers were pretty decent.”
  • Fishing and Boating: Many sites, such as Holmes Bend, are close to water activities. One camper shared, “The beach is great and right next to the marina.”

What campers like

What you should know

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A reviewer at My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground mentioned, “Sites were crammed close together.”
  • Power and Water Hookups: Be prepared for long power and water lines at some sites. One camper warned, “With exception of a couple of sites, everything is at least 30 to 36' away from your hookup.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Smith Ridge Green River Lake said, “Showers or bathroom, they never fix anything.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Look for Kid-Friendly Amenities: Campgrounds like CampFire Ridge RV Park have playgrounds. One parent mentioned, “Family oriented, pet friendly, peaceful with playground for the kids.”
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites. A family at Holmes Bend noted, “Most sites are spaced apart but close enough to make new friends.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. A camper at Green River Lake State Park Campground said, “We enjoyed the lake views and fall colors everywhere.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A reviewer at Smith Ridge Green River Lake mentioned, “They have a known power issue.”
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds may have tight turns. A visitor at Holmes Bend said, “Some spaces and turns would be tight for larger rigs.”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: It’s wise to have extension cords and hoses. A camper at My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground advised, “Bring plenty of blocks!”

Camping in Kentucky can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Kentucky for families?

Kentucky offers several family-friendly campgrounds with amenities perfect for all ages. Kentucky Horse Park Campground is excellent for families, featuring large level sites, clean facilities, and walking access to the Horse Park itself. The spacious layout gives kids room to play while parents enjoy well-maintained grounds. Another top choice is Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground, which offers spacious sites, nice picnic tables, and access to hiking trails and boat rentals. Families appreciate the lake access for swimming and fishing activities. For those looking for outdoor adventures, Mammoth Cave National Park offers camping near world-famous cave tours, while Cumberland Falls State Resort Park provides waterfall views and gem mining activities kids love.

What amenities are available at popular Kentucky campgrounds?

Kentucky campgrounds offer diverse amenities to enhance your camping experience. My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground provides water and electric hookups, though be prepared with extension cords as utilities are often placed at least 30 feet from sites. This campground is conveniently located near Bardstown and bourbon distilleries. Hurricane Creek features shaded sites that aren't too crowded, plus its own boat ramp for water access. Many Kentucky state parks offer modern bathhouses, picnic tables, fire rings, and dump stations. RV-friendly options like Camp Carlson Army RV Park provide clean facilities alongside fishing opportunities at stocked lakes. For water enthusiasts, campgrounds near Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley offer boat ramps, docks, and swimming areas, making them popular destinations during summer months.

Are there any free camping spots in Kentucky state parks?

Kentucky state parks generally do not offer free camping - most require fees ranging from $20-35 per night depending on amenities and season. However, there are some free or low-cost alternatives. Ramp - West Kentucky WMA offers primitive camping options with minimal fees. Similarly, Gilbertsville Ramp - DFWR provides budget-friendly access near Kentucky Dam Village. For truly free camping, look to Daniel Boone National Forest, which permits dispersed camping in designated areas. While not technically state parks, these public lands offer a more rustic, no-fee experience. Always check current regulations before heading out, as some areas may require a Kentucky hunting/fishing license or free backcountry permits. Remember that free sites typically lack amenities like running water, electricity, or maintained restrooms.

When is the best season for camping in Kentucky?

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant camping weather in Kentucky, with mild temperatures and less humidity. Fall is particularly spectacular at places like Koomer Ridge Campground in Daniel Boone National Forest, where the changing foliage creates breathtaking landscapes. Spring brings wildflowers and moderate temperatures perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. Cummins Ferry RV Park on the Kentucky River can experience flooding after heavy spring rains, so check conditions before visiting. Summer (June-August) remains popular despite heat and humidity, especially at lake destinations like Fenton Lake Access, known for clean waters and fishing. Winter camping is possible at year-round campgrounds, though facilities may be limited and water systems winterized. Many state parks reduce services after November until early spring.

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