Tent camping near Hindman, Kentucky offers secluded sites in the eastern Kentucky mountains where elevations range between 900-2,000 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, while spring and fall bring considerable temperature fluctuations requiring layered clothing. Seasonal closures affect several campgrounds, with most facilities operating from mid-April through October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kingdom Come State Park Campground maintains a small stocked lake within walking distance of campsites where anglers can catch trout, bass, bluegill and sunfish. "If you like fishing there is a small lake which is regularly stocked with Trout, Bass, Blue Gill, Sunfish, and a few others. It's just a short walk from the campsites," notes camper Brian B.
Mountain driving adventures: Travel the Little Shepherd Trail near Kingdom Come for a challenging scenic drive. "For the adventurers you can drive along a section of The Little Shepard Trail. A one lane road that runs along the ridge of the mountain. No guard rails, with 300 foot cliffs to either side," describes Brian B., highlighting the adventurous nature of this route.
Paddling excursions: Red River Gorge Adventures provides river access with campsites positioned along the riverbank. "The entire campground runs alongside the river bank, so you can put in your own kayak/canoe or rent one from them. This campground is only a two mile paddle to the infamous jump rock and swim hole," explains camper Josh J.
What campers like
Solitude and space: Campers consistently mention the quiet atmosphere at campgrounds near Hindman. "I've camped on holiday weekends and never had other campers within 100 ft of my site. I've also been on weekends where I was the only camper there," reports Josh J. about Red River Gorge Adventures.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location of Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost provides exceptional night sky viewing. "We were able to have a few nice fires at the top of the hill with great views. What makes this place great is that the entrance is directly across from the Jefferson National Forrest," writes Noah O.
Swimming spots: Natural water features provide cooling options during summer months. "If you wade out into the water about 15ft upstream of the boat launch, the river is relatively flat with a sandy bottom that is about 5' at normal water level. Excellent place for an afternoon swim or a rinse after a hot day of climbing," recommends Josh J.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Bear activity is common throughout the region and requires careful preparation. "The area is known for bear activity, but we saw none. The nearby shelter house provides restrooms and trash cans," notes Sarah from Misfit Farmz Campground. Most campsites include food hanging poles or special instructions for food storage.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is virtually nonexistent at most camping areas. "Great area, no service or wifi," reports Wyman M. about Kingdom Come State Park. This lack of connectivity extends throughout most wilderness areas near Hindman.
Varied water availability: Water access differs significantly between campgrounds. At Kingdom Come, "there is a water fountain across from the CG, but it wasn't turned on and there is running water in the restrooms," explains Sarah. Many primitive sites require campers to bring their own water supply.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger assistance: Kingdom Come State Park rangers actively support campers with necessities. "The local ranger was most helpful in providing firewood (free!) and offering to bring us water to wash up with or for drinking," reports Sarah, making this location ideal for families who need occasional support.
Noise policies: John Swifts Lost Silvermine Campground enforces family-friendly policies. "During our two night stay the other sites were all filled with families, so very kid friendly," notes David C. Red River Adventures similarly maintains an "11pm quiet time and strict alcohol policy" according to Josh J.
Trail accessibility: Several campgrounds offer easy hiking options suitable for children. "The surrounding mountains provide many short hikes that can be easily strung together to make for a longer trek if desired," writes Sarah about Kingdom Come, where trails can be adjusted to match children's stamina levels.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: RV campers should research road conditions before arrival. Grant M. warns about Kingdom Come: "No dump station, and the road in from Cumberland is STEEP! We made it in a mini van pulling a scamp, so you'll probably be fine." Most campgrounds in the region have limited RV infrastructure.
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds offer only small RV sites. "6 sites that are tent-centric but doable with a small trailer, there are two additional sites that can be accessed if you ask the ranger to open the gate," notes Grant M., indicating the need for advance planning with larger vehicles.
Seasonal access issues: Winter conditions can make mountain roads impassable for RVs. The Jefferson National Forest High Knob Campground has complete closures during winter months, operating only "May 15 to September 15" according to park information, with campers reporting unexpected closures outside this window.
