Looking for a place to go glamping near Lucas? Camping has always been a favorite form of travel for many, but Lucas, KY glamping is a new and unique way to do it. You're sure to find glamping for your Lucas camping adventure.
Mammoth Cave Campground puts campers in a prime spot to explore the depths and overland treasures of Mammoth Cave National Park. Mammoth Cave is an underground passageway containing more than 400 miles of naturally sculpted limestone and sandstone. It is the longest recorded cave system in the world. The grand-scale chambers and long, winding passageways were the inspiration behind the park's name. The campground doubles as an entry point to 14 miles of hiking and biking trails. It's also a five minute walk to the visitor center, where cave tours begin.
A must-do activity in the park is exploring Mammoth Cave. Walking tours of the caverns leave from the visitor center daily. There are also miles of bike trails and hiking trails within the park.
The campground is tucked inside Mammoth Cave National Park, which boasts scenic valleys along the Green River. The river is within walking distance of the camp, and the hilly Kentucky countryside expands beyond the valley. Deer and turkeys commonly stroll around the campground, so visitors are likely to see them grazing in the early morning and at dusk.
Nearly 30 miles of the Green and Nolin rivers offer canoeing and boating through the park. Commercial outfitters outside the park rent canoes, kayaks and safety equipment.Most trails north of the Green River are open for horseback riding. Commercial liveries outside the park rent horses and some may provide organized excursions.
For local information, please call (270) 758-2424 or call (270) 758-2180 for general information.
For rules and reservation policies please follow the link below: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies
$25 - $50 / night
Bailey's Point campground is the largest of the Army Corps of Engineers' campgrounds on Barren River Lake. This campground offers several waterfront campsites with scenic views of the lake. Though the campground is one of the largest, you won't know it. There is room to roam, five camping loops with diverse scenery, and private coves for swimming or mooring your boat. You are sure to find a site that's your escape to nature and relaxation. View a virtual tour of Barren River Lake.
Baileys Point has a boat ramp for access to prime fishing, water skiing and boating. Several islands in proximity to the campground are great for a quick picnic getaway by boat. Birding is also a popular activity with a variety of species including kestrels, indigo buntings, bald eagles and at night you can hear the calls of barred owls. Hikers can explore the C.E. Rager Nature Trail and the Robert Foster Hiking Trail. Robert Foster Hiking Trail gives you the opportunity to see the diversity of trees Kentucky has to offer and the C.E. Rager Nature trail is a nice short stroll along the shoreline of the lake. Great for poking around and possibly seeing the resident white squirrel of Baileys Point!
The 10,000-acre lake is hugged by wooded hillsides in south-central Kentucky. With scenic views from almost every campsite, it's sure to make for a memorable camping experience.
Across the lake from Baileys Point is the Barren River Lake State Resort Park, host of the Glasgow Highland Games. Other ramps and marinas close by are Port Oliver, Peninsula, and The Narrows. Not far away are other attractions such as the National Corvette Museum, Kentucky Down Under, Diamond Caverns, and many other day trips within reach. Visitors can explore Mammoth Cave National Park, an hour north of the campground.
Once your reservation has been created, there will be a $10.00 fee to cancel and a $10.00 fee to change your sites or dates. Cancellations made the day before, or up to the day after your arrival date will also be charged the first nights use fee. No-Shows are charged a $20.00 fee plus the first nights use fee. If your reservation is for 1 night, and you have been charged the first nights use fee, there is no $10.00 service fee.
$22 - $50 / night
The Narrows is a family-friendly campground on Barren River Lake, perfect for water lovers and anglers. The Narrows Campground is a 92-site area located near a marina and boat launch ramp. It is a moderately sized campground that has attracted many folks to return year after year. There are two loops open the full camping season.
Boating and fishing are popular pastimes at The Narrows. Walk down to the shoreline and fish amongst the weeping willows or take off by boat to fish in a quiet setting at Coon, Green, Beaver or Skaggs Creek. The Narrows campground is also near open waters for tubing, skiing or wakeboarding. The campground backs into the Lindsey Nature Trail, where hikers can look of the steep limestone cliffs to get panoramic views of the lake while listening to the cicada's buzz throughout the afternoon. Or take a hike at dusk to hear the seasonal nighthawk call in the night.
Find a place uphill along the cliffs or down at the gently sloping shoreline. Explore the islands between The Narrows and Bailey's Point you may just catch the glimpse of a deer that swam over for refuge.
Just up the lake from The Narrows is the Barren River Lake State Resort Park host of the Glasgow Highland Games. The Narrows Marina is a short drive just outside the campground. Day trips to other local area attractions are the National Corvette Museum, Kentucky Down Under, Diamond Caverns, and Barren River State Resort Park. There are several other family attractions within the Glasgow, Bowling Green and Cave City region. Visitors can also explore Mammoth Cave National Park, an hour north of the campground.
$34 - $50 / night
Diamond Caverns RV Resort & Golf caters to the vacationing family, offering southern hospitality, 18-hole golf course and a unique family atmosphere. Located at the gateway to Mammoth Cave National Park, the 743-acre year-round RV resort creates the setting for relaxation, exploration and enjoyment. Our Thousand Trails Diamond Caverns RV Resort offers full hook-up sites, as well as water and electric. Guests can choose from a wide variety of outdoor activities. There are walking, hiking and biking trails available, as well as local attractions. Plus, our pool suits family vacationers or the golfer. Diamond Caverns RV Resort & Golf is located 6 miles from the longest cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave National Park. The National Corvette Museum and Corvette Plant are 20 miles south of our RV Resort on I-65, Exit 28. RV Resort, 18-Hole Golf Course & Condos at the Gateway to Mammoth Cave Come visit our RV resort with 70 RV sites (55 full hook-up, 50 amp & 15 full hook-up, 30 amp), water & electric sites & primitive tent camping, a 18-hole golf course, and condos at the Gateway to Mammoth Cave. Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Diamond Caverns RV Resort & Golf. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
$25 - $99 / night
Legend
The Narrows
The Narrows at Barren River Resort Park , Kentucky is a nice, well maintained campground. If you are a fisher person this is a campground for you. Within walking distance of the Marina, nice shaded sites and room to spread out. A cool feature in the sites is a fish cleaning table as well as fire ring and picnic table. Another nice feature is the campground is off the main road to the marina. Unfortunately there aren’t any hiking trails , however bike riding in the campground is an option and there’s an interesting sunken basketball court.
Legend
This campground is a walking distance to the visitors center. It's a well established campground and geared towards folks visiting mammoth caves. You will find a clean campground as well clean facilities. The sites are relatively close but plenty of space for familiy party's.
Theres many activities to be had here but obviously mammoth cave is what it's all about. After driving past mammoth caves for years we finally decided to stop camp and explore. It was worth every penny. The cave, although geared to tourist is still rediculous. Apparently one of the biggest cave systems in the word. You will enjoy your time here. It's crazy to think your in Kentucky when you in there...we'll except for the accents.
Cheers!
Guide
They have recently built a new bath house and it’s awesome. It has rooms that each have a toilet, sink and shower. Total privacy! Nice and clean as well. Big points for this amenity.
We had a new site, 6, totally paved and great view of the conestoga wagons and pastures. Came with a movable fire pit and nice picnic table. I think it’s the best site.
Our main issue was the dump station, horrible layout. What takes us maybe 10 minutes took over 25. Plan ahead or decide to dump elsewhere.
The area around the KOA is a bit suspect. You can see an adult store, pass a confederate store on the way into the KOA and have business that are abandoned . While the KOA cannot prevent these things it’s worth noting for travelers. The KoA is a 4 star, if I factored in the area it would be a 3.
Easy trip down to Mammoth Cave. Very close to Hidden River and Kentucky Down Under.
LegendWe stayed at this KOA many years ago on our way home. I again needed an overnight stop on our way home & booked here again. WOW! things have changed.
We got a fabulous patio site that was twice the size of our camper. It had a gorgeous view of the Kentucky hills. Full hook up.
The sites all looked very nice. They had teepees, covered wagons & a couple of treehouses. A nice area for tents as well.
The pond is catch & release.
The pool wasn't open yet.
The bathrooms were outstanding! Recently remodeled? Clean as well.
They had a nice camp store I really didn't get to explore.
So many activities for kids.
The worst thing I can say about it is there is highway noise from I-65, but really I feel we've had worse.
Looks like a nice base camp for the surrounding area.
Thanks office ladies for the Derby pie!
Traveler
One of my absolute favorite spots to camp!! We had a blast this past September. A lovely time to camp and still warm enough to swim at their sandy beach. We enjoyed fishing and caught a variety of fish like catfish, bluegill and bass. The bath houses are well maintained and quite clean. Super nice playground which the kids fully enjoyed! Extremely helpful park staff and plenty of firewood and extras available to purchase. Before we arrived it flooded and our site was under water but they were kind enough to move our site back and accommodate our reservation. The sky was so clear and bright. Almost zero light pollution allowed us to see many constellations, the milk way, falling stars and the brightest, most breath taking view of the night sky. 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!
LegendI went to Mammoth Cave National Park the first time as a child with my family in the 70’s. I took my children to Mammoth in the 90’s. And I have lived within 45 minutes of Mammoth for the last 10 years. The only time during the last 10 years I was not at the Park at least monthly was during my deployment and when the government shutdown in 2013.
In all that time I have visited the cave maybe 10 times. Spelunking was the most exhilarating visit. Make sure you check out the tour offerings online https://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/gocavetours.htm well before your visit and reserve a place. If you wait until your visit you will probably have a hard time getting past the cathedral.
All the other visits were spent enjoying all the other things there are to do at Mammoth.
First and foremost is the camping. Mammoth has a campground adjacent to the Visitors Center which is basic except for two sites. There are reservable as well as walk up sites. A store, showerhouse, laundry and post office are co-located at the front of the campground and there are toilet facilities in the campground. I used the access points in the campground to hike some of the trails and walk to the visitors center.
An aspect that I have just recently started exploring are the several dispersed camp sites throughout the park. These are free but you must check in at the Lodge before hiking to them. A good , waterproof map is key.
In addition at Maple Springs on the far side of the Green River Ferry ( yes, there is a cool little two car ferry) is the Maple Springs horse and group site camping area. Nice basic, shaded area with trailheads in the area.
Now that you have found your home for your stay what to do?
Kayaking/watercraft, fishing: several companies work the Green River. If you brought your own craft they will usually meet you at the Green River Ferry parking area and transport you up river for a nominal fee. Check ahead at least a day so they are tracking you and can coordinate.
Hiking, Trail Running, dirtbiking, , horse, Geocaching: My favorite trail run is from the main picnic area to the ferry, with several connectors. Just technical enough to keep you on your toes, definitely not a mountain but the hills and valleys give you good work out.
The Maple Springs Trailhead is the major access point for all things backpacking and horse back riding. It even has a handicap accessible horse “loading” area which is wheelchairs friendly.
If your going to geocache pre-save your coordinates and instructions cause there is no signal in the park. If you visit the restaurant at the lodge they have WiFi but it’s slloooowwwww. When we stay over I always try to do my site surfing first thing in the morning.
If you are dirt biking check your trails, some are limited access.
On our most recent visit we explored the new construction on the ferry trailhead. Pictures included.
Not Mammoth related or affiliated but a few things you may want to try while in the area:
http://www.kentuckywine.com/cave-valley-winery-at-park-mammoth-resort/
Guns and wine, can’t get much more Kentucky then that!
https://dinosaurworld.com/kentucky/
Dogs allowed ;)
Educational and fun, who knew!
http://mammothcave-adventures.com/
You will drop some green here but it is a lot of fun!
And there’s more ;) Happy Camping
LegendRanger Review of Boost Oxygen at Nolin River State Park
Campground Review: Nolin River SP is one of our area favorites. Near Brownsville, Ky and a little off the beaten path. But definitely worth a visit or two.
This is not a huge State Park but it sits on Nolin River Lake and offers plenty of water sports to keep you entertained. The campgrounds were crowded when we visited.
The RV campground sits behind a gated entry and has sites that have direct lake access. Very clean and well maintained, not a lot of shade or privacy though. The primitive/basic area is crowded. The sites are walk in and placed pretty close together under cedar trees. There is a fresh water point and the beach is a short distance away. There are some sites on a small hill lakeside that give an excellent view and have picnic tables.
Obviously the main attraction is the lake, there is a lot of traffic on the lake. I kayak so at times it can be a little stressful when your wondering if that speedboat flying at you over the water sees you. I stayed close to the shoreline and did not attempt to cross the main thoroughfare. There are inlets that are less busy , you will usually see fishermen in those areas and travel is safer.
In addition to the water Kentucky Mountain Bike Assiciation(KYMBA) has built a very nice trail system in the woods. I’ve never hiked the longest loop but the two shorter ones are challenging and fun to hike. Mountain bikers would find them very technical.
On this visit we saw a new privately owned campground being built in front of the park entrance. It will be opening this season , graveled RV sites and a smal basic area for tents.
Product Review: As a Dyrt Ranger I had the opportunity to use and review Boost Oxygen https://www.boostoxygen.com/ last summer. I recently received the smaller version of Boost Oxygen to take with me adventuring. Boost comes in three sizes and the one I reviewed is the mid-size version.
I took Boost along with me on a vigorous hike in humid weather. It was more beneficial due to the humidity then the level of excercise.
Pro: smaller size fit in one of my hydration packs front pockets
Pro: easy to use
Con: filling up those land fills
Pro: it does make recovery faster
Con: for amateur athletes/ sports enthusiasts not really sure it’s cost effective
In conclusion if you are an extreme, high altitudes, low drag kinda adventurer this would be a worthwhile investment into your performance. For me, I can just as easily sit down and take a break, I’m in no hurry;)
RangerNever a Dull Moment at Mammoth!
Campground/Park Review:
We first entered the park via the "secret" entrance, byway of a narrow road at the very north of the park, in which we had to take a single car automated ferry across the green river, which was enjoyed by all, and we appreciated avoiding the main entrance besieged by spring break campers!
The Campground itself's best feature is its proximity to the main park attractions. It's a few minute walk to the visitor's center, from which you can catch daily tours of all types ranging from themed cave tours to botony forest walks and guided history walks. Our normally restless kids were so taken by the 2 hr cave tour that they remained in near total silence and awe as we tunneled through this slow moving guided cave walk. You've got to make a reservation for tours - be warned, they fill up quickly. I recommend making a reservation at least a week before in the busy season (March-Sept), although up to a couple days before, you can usually get in, albeit not at your ideal time, most likely. Adjoining the campground is a more than adequate camp store, with all the common items and a few groceries you may need while there. Across a short walkway from the visitors center is also 2 restaurants, if roasting dogs on the fire isn't you thing, one cafe style with an ice cream shop, and another more formal table service in the historical Lodge.
We went in April, one of the area's wetter months, and found the campsites to be well maintained, drained and free from debris. While no one enjoys wet camping, the great thing about this park is that the main attraction is always the same comforatable temp and weather year round - and you can spend a dry several hours while you avoid the rain spurts outside. The camping was quiet although crowded for spring break, sites were averagely spread apart (those near the front and the store had a bit more room) and included hook ups for campers. There's even a place to park your horse if horsecamping is something that interests you, very Kentucky, indeed. Bath houses are average but well maintained as all the park is.
Product Review:
Being a Dyrt Ranger, I sometimes have the chance to try out new products on our adventures. This time I was able to test out the Birler Axe by #CRTK.
As anyone who's ever had to camp in moist conditions will tell you, it's no fun having to cut through a damp piece of kindling or wood. While we could purchase dry firewood at the campground, we had to chop our own kindling, which we found dry on the inside and wet on the bark...the Birler cut threw it like butter.
It's compact size was easy to pack, and while I'd guess it weighs in at about just over a pound, and wouldn't be ideal for most backpackers, it was perfect for some average campsite wear. The quality was high, and it split a log like no body's business. There's enough heft behind it to make chopping easy, yet a short enough handle to maneuver. Balance was great. A leather sheath is sold separately, and while the axe comes with a rubber blade guard, is highly recommend a sheath for it as it's extremely sharp, unlike our old axe which had a hard time cutting through a carrot. We were the envy of the campground.
TravelerThis campground is amazing! Great sites, and lots of things to do for the kids. Lake access too.
Scoutits a wonder full place to go have fun with kids and family and pets and good for fishing
GuideKind of small but well maintained.
GuideNice and clean.
GuideWe camped here because of the easy access to the lake! Very friendly staff and the campground was easy to get around, especially on the golf cart. It was a little tight and traffic can get backed up within the campground when more than a few people are trying to park, but other than that it was great.
Legend50 amp & sites not too far from Barren River boat ramp. Sights are close to one another. Dump station is not ideal with long campers.
Pros: Beautiful, shaded campground
Cons: No Wifi, dump station busy when leaving with line, gravel lots.
TravelerThe Narrows is a nice campground. It can get a little crowded when the campground gets full. It is very close to the marina and we actually rented a pontoon and had a blast.
Only thing I disliked was I felt like my sight was a little tight. But we did manage. I was @ site B36.
I have Verizon wireless and had decent reception. AT&T was also decent.
We did have a lot of family fun!!
LegendThe Narrows Campground is a mid size Campground with some options.
Two loops, B loop has access to the shoreline so you can park your boat and walk to your site. Loop A has an overlook ( also called a cliff).
There is a small sand beach on site that can be accessed from either loop. All electric sites and a well maintained area with helpful staff. There is a sand volleyball court next to the front gate.
There is a nature trail behind the dumpstation that is about a mile loop.
LegendThe Narrows Recreation Area is off Ky 31E outside Glasgow, Ky.
This is Redneck farm country at its best. Surprisingly I saw no signs for mud bogs though there were plenty of tractors and corn.
The Narrows are located on Barren River Lake. The area offers a Boatramp with day use area including a large pavilion, playground, single picnic sites, restroom and nature trail. Directly below the parking area is a large marina.
Co-located is The Narrows Campground. A mid-size , two loop area with beach, all electric sites and sand volleyball court.
A loop has mostly shaded sites, the outer loop has more space between sites. A loop sites do not have direct water access but you can walk down to the beach.
B loop has several sites that have direct water access and you can "park" your boat nearby. Many of the sites are not level so bring your blocks.
TravelerGreat place to relax and enjoy life.
Guide
Amazing little campground, it was clean, very friendly host, the beach was amazing and clean, the food at lodge very excellent.
LegendBarren River State Resort Park
Barren River State Resort Park is small but it offers a lot of options.
The campground is off by itself, quiet , with separate areas and pull through options. The campground is somewhat maintained and the sites are somewhat level. I like the back in sites with shade and a small patio to set up on. They have small asphalt pads so you will get your backing skills tested. The middle sites, (I was in site 45 top of the hill, pull thru) are on a hill which ends at the water with a boat ramp and small beach area. I huffed and puffed up and down the hill several times! There is a short trail near the boat ramp, more for fisher folk then a good hike. It ends at a small inlet. You have a strip of grass to your uphill side to use, otherwise not much privacy. The middle sites have pretty much no shade and we sweltered our middays , chasing the limited shade. The showers are newer, air conditioned and clean. Showers are spacious with seating and wall hooks. Luke warm water, which definitely makes for quick showers! A good way to enforce water conservation, lol.
If you are a biker you have some hills to climb in the park. There is a walk/bike trail around the golfing greens, with a dirt trail off the backside. The stable may still be closed. I did not check if they had started a new contract due to Covid restrictions. LOTS of boating options. Bring your own or rent. The lake is huge and busy with a marina. There’s a beach that you will want to drive to, to long of a walk and I didn’t find any cut through trails from our section of the campground.
Two cool events to check out are the Highland Games, ( men in skirts throwing things)and the Bourbonfest a newer event.
Local grocery w/i 10 miles, antiques, restaurants (Funky Paradise Point) and Mammoth Cave, Cave City attractions as well as an Amish Market in Scottsville and seasonal Farmers Market in Glasgow.
Traveler
This campground has some of the prettiest lake sites we have seen with easy access to beach and water. Book early as the campground fills up often.
GuideWe spent a cold rainy weekend at Bailey's Point but we manage to get the perfect site A23 in my opinion! It was opening weekend and to spite the weather there were quite a few campers there. The sites are sit up so there is a view of the lake from most of the sites and the site are fairly large. The grounds were very clean and maintained including the bath house, it is dog/pet friendly and the staff was very nice. There were some boaters and fisherman on lake even though it was about 40 degrees. We did not hike this trip the weather was just to miserable but we planning a return visit so we can see everything they have to offer.
LegendCampground Review: Roughly 20 miles from the Bowling Green, Ky I65 exit Baileys Point is a well laid out large campground. A-F site loops boardering Barren River Lake are set mostly in the trees/forest to provide shade and "dampen" noise.
I stayed at D11 and was right on the lake , adjacent to a small swimming area. If I had my kayak along I could have easily parked it at the bottom of the hill like several other campers had in my loop. The sites are close together but not so close that you feel like the neighbors are looking in your windows, lol
Gear Review: As a Dyrt Ranger I receive gear to review while camping. The SHOWERS PASS Crossover Jacket is a great addition to my gear. The bright pink waterproof jacket with reflective "tape", zippered pockets and vents kept me dry while I was packing up in the rain and walking my dogs. I really like the sealed zippers on the front and pockets, the bottom can be drawn tight around your waist to keep the elements out too. The only con that I had was the zippered vents located on the sides of the jacket, under the arm sleeves, let out body heat but my arms were still sweaty.
I wore this jacket previously during a duathlon. During the trail run it was loose enough and moved well with no "raincoat crinkle" noises. During the bike portion it "stayed in place" around my waist and the hood was large enough to use with my helmet with no restrictions while looking around. The bright color and reflective tape make you very visible on the road. I've already suggested this jacket to two friends who also do endurance sports.
GuideWe have been coming here for years. It never fails to be a great trip!
ScoutThis is my favorite campground! it’s very clean most spots are very close to the lake It has nice showers and plenty of restrooms 3 or 4 playground areas and a volleyball court.
ScoutLove this campground. It's one of the few in the state where you can camp near the water and keep your kayaks or boat within a quick stroll. It also has welcome shade in almost every sIte which helps during the hot humid days of summer. A beautiful park during the fall with all the changing colors on the numerous trees, too. Barren River Lake is peaceful and serene to camp alongside. Facilities are well kept including bathhouses, park areas, laundry, roads and sites. Pet friendly. Online reservations are convenient. A favorite place just an hour from Bowling Green, KY.
ScoutThis campground is a favorite spot of ours that is close to home. it is only a 40 minute drive from Bowling Green. it has nice bathroom and shower facilities. Great access to the lake and a variety of shaded campsites. The campground host are always gracious and helpful.
We camp with a teardrop, so every site we have stayed at is spacious and accommodating.
There is access to a boat ramp and a few miles of trails that connect to a picnic area. there is also a playground, volleyball court and ample opportunities to enjoy the lake.
Be sure to check out Paradise Point and The Landing at Port Oliver while you are there!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Lucas, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Lucas, KY is Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 136 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Lucas, KY?
TheDyrt.com has all 23 glamping camping locations near Lucas, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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