J
Jennifer M.
Scout
ScoutGrandma's RV Park
Perfect Spot!
Right off the interstate and super easy to pull in. Very friendly staff!
Best Campgrounds in Kentucky
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.
Best Camping Sites in Kentucky (455)
1. Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
141 ReviewsMammoth 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 ReviewsSalt Lick, KYWebsite+1 (606) 768-2722$31 - $105 / 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
48 ReviewsPine Ridge, KY+1 (606) 663-8100$27 - $45 / 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
50 ReviewsGeorgetown, KYWebsite+1 (859) 259-4257$40 - $43 / 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 ReviewsOlive Hill, KYWebsite+1 (606) 286-4411$20 - $80 / 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
46 ReviewsPatriot, INWebsite+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
44 ReviewsSalt Lick, KYWebsite+1 (606) 780-7818$35 - $150 / 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 ReviewsSweeden, KYWebsite+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 ReviewsSlade, KYWebsite+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 ReviewsGrand Rivers, KYWebsite+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."
Recent Camping Photos in Kentucky
665 Photos of 455 Kentucky Campgrounds
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Camp Escape
Recent Reviews in Kentucky
2659 Reviews of 455 Kentucky Campgrounds
- TTodd W.Scout
Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp
camp grounds was ok
trails are a complete mess, a lot were impassable and very dangerous not recommended for horses, some have not had any maintenance done in years, even the main trail out of camp a couple miles was impassable... very poor :(
OneofaKind D.ScoutPaducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
Paducah,Kentucky koa
Awesome campsite rented a cabin we brought are dogs so we had to find a location that excepted pets and they were the ones who were friendly and awsome definitely recommend if u want a place to go this is the place
- AA B.Scout
Still Waters Campground
Unprofessional management, Junkie sites, Not a welcoming environment
I would highly NOT recommend staying at Still Waters Campground based on my experience with management. Today I rolled through a stop sign in the campground. I understand that was my mistake, and I accepted being told not to do it again. However, what happened afterward was completely unnecessary. Instead of simply speaking with me later at the office or sending a text, management chose to chase me down in a vehicle. I was driving around the campground speed limit, yet I was accused of speeding because they claimed they had to drive 30 mph to catch me—even though they had to turn around before following me. What made it even more frustrating was that I was told to“lead by example” while the manager herself admitted to driving around 30 mph in a 10 mph campground just to catch up to me. That felt incredibly hypocritical. What bothered me most was the way the situation was handled. I tried to walk away to avoid escalating the confrontation, but the manager continued arguing with me. She even told me to“go get my boyfriend,” as if I couldn’t speak for myself. I’m a grown woman and didn’t appreciate being dismissed like that. Later, after I had calmed down, my boyfriend and I went to the office so I could apologize for raising my voice and explain my side of the situation. Unfortunately, management wasn’t interested in having a productive conversation and came across as condescending and unwilling to listen. It also seems like the rules are enforced inconsistently. We have watched plenty of other people roll through that same stop sign without being stopped or chased down. If safety is truly the concern, the rules should apply EQUALLY to everyone instead of selectively enforcing them. Overall, this experience left a VERY bad impression. A simple warning then walking away could have resolved everything, but instead it turned into an unnecessarily confrontational situation. Customer service and professionalism from management were extremely disappointing.
MickandKarla W.
LegendPaducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
Decent KOA
Before arrival, we received a helpful confirmation email with clear directions for entering the campground, although the turn was easy with our 40-foot fifth wheel. Check-in was exceptionally friendly—we were even welcomed by a fellow Brinkley owner—and escorted to pull-through Site A6 with full hookups. The utilities were easy to reach, and water pressure was good. We were pleasantly surprised to learn we could park our truck anywhere, even on the grass. Starlink would be questionable because of the mature trees, but the campground's Wi-Fi was better than most we have experienced at around 50 Mbps download and 24 Mbps upload. We had two bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile, while our T-Mobile Home Internet work well. The upper A-loop pull-through sites are fairly level but somewhat close together. The terraced B, C, and D loops could be more challenging for larger rigs to maneuver, level, and exit. The campground also offers a fishing pond, cabins, tent sites, and a fenced dog park. Overall, this is a clean, well-maintained KOA Journey with friendly staff that worked very well for our overnight stay, and we would stay here again.
AmandaScoutKOA Campground Kentucky Lakes Prizer Point
Beautiful
the campground was great, staff was very nice and helpful, great activities for kids and adults, free paddle boats and canoes, cable tv, indoor and outdoor pools, really great place!
- KKarolina M.
TravelerMammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park
Great campsite
Beautiful campground, green, quiet, clean. Walking distance to visitor center and cave tours.
Chelsea M.TravelerThe Edge Cave Run's Glamping Getaway
A Glamping Getaway MUST!
The Edge Cave Run's Glamping Getaway is a MUST experience on your bucket list!
Beautiful scenery right on the Licking River!
Modern amenities, wi-fi, close to local attractions, comfortable beds. Perfect family getaway!
- CCorey R.Scout
salem lake
Beautiful Little Lake, Tents Only
Beautiful place to stop for lunch.
While we were there,"Code Enforcement" stopped by to inform us that only tent and open-air camping is allowed, that a free permit from the city is required, and that there is a two-night limit.
There is a narrow one-lane road for the last several hundred yards to the lake, which could be problematic for larger vehicles if they meet someone coming the other direction.
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
- Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roominess at places like Smith Ridge Green River Lake. A review stated, “The parking spots are huge, and it's a great area to walk around.”
- Clean Facilities: Cleanliness is a big plus. At Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground, one camper said, “Bathrooms were very clean and the staff was super friendly!”
- Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground noted, “Camp host greeted us upon arrival.”
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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