Best Tent Camping near McKee, KY
Tent camping opportunities near McKee, Kentucky include established campgrounds like HomeGrown HideAways and primitive sites in the Red River Gorge Geological Area. Located in eastern Kentucky, these tent sites vary from maintained campgrounds with basic amenities to remote backcountry locations throughout Daniel Boone National Forest and surrounding natural areas. Walk-in tent sites are common in this region, with several campgrounds offering secluded spots away from parking areas.
Most tent campgrounds provide fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between established and primitive sites. Walk-in tent sites at HomeGrown HideAways feature access to toilets, showers, and drinking water, while backcountry tent camping in Red River Gorge requires permits purchased at local gas stations in Slade. According to one visitor, "Pick up your parking pass at the Shell gas station at 12187 Campton road, Stanton, KY. A three days pass is $5." The National Forest Service maintains several primitive tent camping areas that require campers to pack in water and supplies, with minimal facilities beyond occasional vault toilets at trailheads.
Tent campers in this region enjoy remarkable natural features and solitude, particularly at backcountry sites. The area offers extensive hiking opportunities with numerous trails connecting tent camping areas to scenic overlooks and natural arches. A recent review noted, "Red river gorge as a whole has well traveled trails easily followed. Very scenic as one would expect." Primitive tent sites are available along many trails, with particularly scenic options at locations like Tarr Ridge and Princess Arch. During summer months, tent campsites near water access points like Red River provide opportunities for swimming and cooling off. Backcountry tent camping areas tend to be less crowded during weekdays, as weekend visitation can become quite heavy during peak seasons.
