Tent campsites near Livingston, Kentucky include options within the Daniel Boone National Forest where elevations range from 600 to 1,600 feet. The area receives approximately 47 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions. Many campgrounds maintain accessibility from April through mid-October, with seasonal restrictions during winter months at higher elevations.
What to do
Horseback riding access: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park offers guided trail rides suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. "The park offers guided trail rides that are easy enough for the first timer and still adventurous for the more experienced," according to a visitor at Clifty Campground. Rides cost $20 per person and run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with availability daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Archery practice: Pulaski County Park provides dedicated archery areas as part of its recreational options. "There's a very large walking trail, and archery area. You can put a boat right in at their little dock as well," notes Anna C., who visited Pulaski County Park. The park remains open from April through October with various activity areas distributed throughout its grounds.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds offer disc golf courses that incorporate hiking elements. "The disc golf will take you on quite a hike and to another parking lot and trailhead totally outside the park," explains Shelly S. about Pulaski County Park. The course layout takes players through varied terrain, requiring significant walking between holes.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Some campgrounds offer unusually secluded options compared to typical public camping areas. "I loved site 48 at Clifty Campground. It was the most secluded spot we could find," reports Hannah L., who recommends booking well in advance. Sites 48-50 at Clifty lack electricity and water hookups but provide better privacy than the serviced sites.
Community facilities: HomeGrown HideAways provides unique communal spaces not found at most public campgrounds. "An unbelievable community shelter and community kitchen. Nested between 2 mountains," according to Frank H. The campground maintains these facilities year-round, though with limited winter services.
Boat-in camping: For tent campers seeking true seclusion, waterfront sites accessible only by watercraft provide unique experiences. "My first experience to a boat in and did it all on my own! My boat was my kayak. I parked at the Grove marina and packed all I could on my kayak and headed to the sites," shares Emilee B. about her stay at Grove Boat-In Campground. These sites fill quickly during holiday weekends but remain less crowded midweek.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Backcountry camping in Red River Gorge requires permits that must be displayed. "Red river gorge as a whole is one of my favorite places. I personally prefer to camp off-site but you need a pass. Luckily it's only $5," explains Natasha T. from Red River Gorge Campground. These passes can be purchased at local gas stations, including the Shell station at 12187 Campton Road in Stanton.
Bathroom limitations: Facility quality varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering only basic options. "Bathroom facilities reminded me of middle school camp... kind of mildewed... and well... rustic. Everything functioned and it wasn't 'gross' just old," reports Ella L. about Clifty Campground. Some shower stalls are notably small, with limited accessibility features for those with mobility issues.
Site inconsistencies: Camping areas may have drastically different site sizes even within the same campground. "The sites are inconsistent between their sizes on the Clifty campground. We had two small tents and one car. If we had any more gear or people it would have been uncomfortable," notes a camper called Kenpocentaur K. Checking site specifications or scouting locations before booking helps avoid disappointments.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Some campgrounds offer swimming opportunities with designated beach areas. "Great beach access. Quite and very clean," reports Lee-Ann R. about Pulaski County Park. The park provides multiple playground areas near camping sections, creating convenient recreation options for children without long walks.
Alternative shelters: Rockcastle provides opportunities for families who prefer not to pitch tents. "We found this campground almost by accident late at night. The site are well spread out for the most part, the view is very nice if you get to camp on the water," shares Eric B. These sites work well for families seeking space between neighboring campers.
Pool facilities: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park offers swimming pools that campers can use without additional fees. "The perk about the Clifty campsites is that they are close to the pool. You can easily walk to the pool with your family when it opens. The pool is free for campers," explains Kenpocentaur K. This provides a convenient alternative to lake swimming, especially with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds in the region have restrictions for larger vehicles. HomeGrown HideAways accommodates smaller RVs but lacks big rig friendly designations. The narrow valley setting creates natural limitations for maneuvering larger vehicles through the property.
Variable hookup types: Electrical services vary between campgrounds and even within individual camping areas. According to Kenpocentaur K., "Each site had a water hook up, standard lantern/trash pole, fire ring, electric box," at Clifty Campground, but notes that only sites 40-47 have electric and water, while 48-50 do not. RVers should verify specific site amenities when booking.
