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Best Campgrounds near McKee, KY

553 Reviews

Camping areas around McKee, Kentucky include established campgrounds and primitive sites within the Daniel Boone National Forest. Turkey Foot Campground and S-Tree Campground provide free camping options with basic amenities like fire pits and vault toilets. The region includes both developed facilities with hookups, such as Renfro Valley KOA with cabin rentals, and more rustic options for tent campers seeking a wilderness experience. Several campgrounds in the area feature access to rivers and lakes, making them popular for fishing and swimming activities.

Road conditions and campground accessibility vary throughout the region, with some sites requiring careful navigation on narrow roads. A review mentioned, "S Tree campground in McKee KY is great for trail riding! Multiple trials to venture on. The campsites are huge with available fire pits and restrooms." Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, particularly the free sites like Turkey Foot, while others like Renfro Valley KOA accept reservations. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, especially deeper in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Weather conditions are typically mild in summer but can change quickly, particularly during spring and fall when storms may affect camping conditions.

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the McKee area. Turkey Foot Campground provides river access within walking distance of all sites, making it popular for swimming and fishing. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "Turkey Foot Campground in McKee KY off of highway 587 is perfect for campers who like to rough it, but also likes to have a labratory near by." Developed campgrounds like Lago Linda Hideaway feature amenities such as a lake with swimming dock, pavilion gathering areas, and improved sites with water and electric hookups. The proximity to Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Resort Park provides additional recreational opportunities for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts staying at campgrounds in the McKee area. Campers seeking more solitude often prefer the primitive sites, while families typically gravitate toward the developed campgrounds with more amenities.

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Best Camping Sites Near McKee, Kentucky (98)

    1. Turkey Foot Campground

    12 Reviews
    McKee, KY
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 864-4163

    "There’s a privy near the campsites and a creek the runs nearby. All sites have fire rings and lamp post along with picnic tables."

    "Beautiful remote location. Great moderate hiking trails. Clean 🚻."

    2. Lago Linda Hideaway

    23 Reviews
    Beattyville, KY
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 464-2876

    $12 - $115 / night

    "This big campground is a hidden gem near Red River Gorge. The road getting to the campsite is mostly one lane so is you are in an RV, go slow."

    "The trail around the lake was very nice, short but hilly so a good morning walk. It rained the first evening which led to some pretty little waterfalls the next day."

    3. S-Tree Campground

    7 Reviews
    McKee, KY
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 864-4163

    "A very well-developed camping area that caters to the off-road community. There are 2 loops for camping; loop B is still being upgraded."

    "They aren't right next to the fireplace shelter, rather just around the corner. Had the place completely to myself on a thursday night/friday morning."

    4. Renfro Valley KOA

    13 Reviews
    Livingston, KY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 256-2474

    "Entrance and exit are a bit steep, just take it slow :)"

    "Almost all paths are gravel. If it were totally full it would be tight between many spaces. Overall nice campground good location could drive 30-45 for things to do."

    5. Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

    42 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    29 miles
    Website
    +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)"

    6. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    31 miles
    +1 (606) 663-8100

    $24 - $36 / 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)."

    7. HomeGrown HideAways

    3 Reviews
    Bighill, KY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 986-3478

    $15 - $75 / night

    "The outhouse was perfectly clean, but there were flush toilets available if you took a little walk.

    This place is amazing lots of room to take walks and even a good, challenging mile or so hike."

    "Nestled in a narrow valley between high ridges of The Knobs, this campground gives the feel of secluded country living with your own trails and creeks to explore."

    8. Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    London, KY
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 330-2130

    "Many activities at the park and it is also close to the birth place of Kentucky Fried Chicken. They have nice sites for larger campers and some for small units that are more shaded."

    "Decent WIFI which was a big plus and, while we stayed in a full hook up site, the dump station was well positioned and easy to navigate."

    9. Oh! Kentucky RV Park & Campground

    7 Reviews
    Berea, KY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 986-1150

    "Great pull-thru site, we were able to stay connected and seconds away from the freeway. Site 61 is awesome!"

    "Very easy to locate just outside Berea,KY. Arrived late, but the information on our camp site was easy to find, and clearly written."

    10. Callie’s Lake and Campground

    18 Reviews
    Stanton, KY
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 559-2554

    $10 - $40 / night

    "There are many campsites of multiple types available, but there are several primitive sites that still feel secluded and surrounded by trees."

    "This was a nice campground near the red river gorge. My friends and I stayed at a primitive campsite # 10."

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Recent Camping Photos near McKee, KY

191 Photos of 98 McKee Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near McKee, KY

553 Reviews of 98 McKee Campgrounds

  • Sam C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    S-Tree Campground

    Well maintained and quiet.

    This is a nice place. I've got about two bars 4G through verizon via xfinity. I don't know if there's usually a fee, but there's not one right now. It's got gravel lots with picnic tables and fire pits.

  • Kody Bear A.
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Redbird Boat Ramp

    It's nice and private

    Nothing special there is a boat ramp. Plenty of space for a couple RVs. No amenities. The sky was beautiful. Would go again. About ten miles off 75. We were there in Sept 2025

  • Andy M.
    Aug. 12, 2025

    S-Tree Campground

    Great camping spot for Off-Road enthusiasts!

    A very well-developed camping area that caters to the off-road community. There are 2 loops for camping; loop B is still being upgraded. The park will begin implementation of fees as soon as the loop is completed. There are several sets of vault toilets, but no running water nor trash pickup, even though they have built a pad for a dumpster.

  • K
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Cumberland Falls RV Resort

    WOW!! A Hidden Gem for RV Enthusiasts!

    My son and I recently had the pleasure of staying at this brand new RV park, and I can’t say enough good things about it! Just opening in July 2025, Every site comes with full hookups, making it super convenient for all your RV needs. The entire park is laid out with beautiful asphalt, which not only looks great but also provides a smooth surface for parking.

    What truly sets this place apart are the owners. They were on-site and incredibly welcoming, helping us get settled into our site with ease. We even received a delightful goodie bag as a thank-you for choosing to stay there! 🥰 It was such a thoughtful touch that made our experience even more special.

    We were lucky enough to be the first guests in our site, and I can confidently say it won’t be our last visit. We’re already planning to return this fall! We’re so glad we missed the state park and stumbled upon this little gem 💎. If you’re looking for a fantastic RV park with amazing hospitality, look no further!

  • Jackie S.
    Jul. 24, 2025

    Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort

    Terrible service and sketchy

    We were told the river float would last 1.5 to 2 hours, but it ended up being less than an hour. The life jackets smelled terrible and were clearly dirty, and the rafts weren’t much better. To even get to the river, we had to walk through tall, uncut weeds— a serious problem for someone like me who is highly allergic to poison ivy. The path down to the water was muddy, slippery, and unsafe. Both my mom and I almost fell just trying to get in. The entrance was located behind a sketchy, run-down mall, which felt completely inappropriate and unprofessional. It honestly seemed more like we were sneaking into a forgotten alleyway than starting a paid river float. While the dirty water isn’t something they can control, the poor condition of their gear made everything worse. When we called to complain, they basically brushed us off and said,“Well, you already did the float.” What were we supposed to do— stop halfway and hike out of the river? They did offer us another trip, but why would we want to go through that experience again? This was an extremely poorly run operation with zero concern for safety, cleanliness, or customer experience. I absolutely would not recommend this to anyone.

  • Jennifer R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2025

    Westgate RV Campground

    It'll do

    It'll do for a quick stay. Staff was very friendly. Sites are literally mom and pop developed land. Grounds weren't filthy. But the bathrooms are curtain closed the shower is small and meh. Cops frequently circle do either high crime suspected (very possible) or they like the area. Either way I felt safe.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Oh! Kentucky RV Park & Campground

    Nice camp ground

    It’s well maintained and the staff are friendly. It’s easy to get to and set up. The sites are a bit too close together. And not perfectly level.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Turkey Foot Campground

    Good free camping

    This place takes winding back smaller roads to get there, but is very quiet and beautiful! We fit with our 21 foot camper and truck. Large spots, river alongside campground. Sad to see people left a lot of trash. Free is free!

Guide to McKee

Camping near McKee, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the well-marked trails that lead to stunning views. One reviewer mentioned, "Well traveled trails easily followed. Clean campground. Very scenic as one would expect."
  • Fishing: The local lakes and rivers provide great spots for fishing. A camper at Zilpo Campground noted, "This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing."
  • Kayaking: If you love water sports, bring your kayak! Campers have enjoyed the calm waters, with one stating, "Beautiful area. Enjoy all the lake activities!"

What campers like

  • Privacy: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites. A visitor at Koomer Ridge Campground said, "Sites were more than adequately spaced out around the campground and some were quite private."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained grounds are a big plus. One reviewer mentioned, "The bathhouse was nice and clean," at Middle Fork Campground.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Twin Knobs Recreation Area shared, "Camp hosts very friendly and helpful."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, have fewer amenities. A camper noted, "No septic which we knew going in," so be prepared for basic facilities.
  • Noise Levels: Be aware of potential noise from nearby roads or facilities. A reviewer at Fort Boonesborough State Park mentioned, "This campground is absolutely ruined by the adjacent stone quarry."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Zilpo Campground is open from April 25 to November 2.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One camper at Kentucky Horse Park Campground mentioned, "There are some amenities for the kids that I really enjoyed such as miniature golf."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to plan activities that everyone can enjoy. A family at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park enjoyed the "horse rides looked amazing."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids during hikes or activities. A camper at Red River Gorge Campground suggested, "Bring your camera with, you’re going to want to take some family pics."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A reviewer at Blue Heron Campground noted, "Sites are level and pretty spacious, if not some a little tight together."
  • Bring Extra Cords: Some campgrounds may have hookups on the opposite side of your RV. A camper at Koomer Ridge Campground advised, "Make sure to bring extra power cord and water hose."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider your campground choice. A visitor at Middle Fork Campground mentioned, "Biggest downside is the noise from the big trucks going up and down the hill."

Camping near McKee, Kentucky, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at McKee Campground?

Campgrounds in the McKee area offer basic amenities for primitive camping enthusiasts. Whittleton Campground in nearby Natural Bridge State Resort Park provides access to beautiful hiking trails but has tight campsites that may challenge larger RVs. Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground offers more family-friendly amenities with sites for both large and small camping units, plus various park activities. Most primitive campgrounds in the McKee area typically include fire pits, basic restroom facilities, and access to water sources like rivers or streams, but generally no electricity.

Where is McKee Campground located and how do I get there?

McKee is located in Jackson County, Kentucky. Two popular campgrounds in the McKee area include Turkey Foot Campground which is situated off highway 587, making it easily accessible for visitors. For those interested in trail riding, S-Tree Campground is another option in McKee. Both campgrounds are primitive with no electricity but offer distinct outdoor experiences. To reach these campgrounds, follow directions to McKee, KY, then use local highways (like 587 for Turkey Foot) to access the specific campground areas.

How is Mayapple Retreat in McKee, KY different from McKee Campground?

While specific information about Mayapple Retreat is limited in the reviews, it likely offers a more retreat-style experience compared to the primitive campgrounds in McKee. For comparison, Koomer Ridge Campground in the nearby Red River Gorge area provides a simple camping experience with shower facilities. Holly Bay offers large, private wooded lots with electric and water hookups, clean bathrooms with showers, and access to recreational activities. Mayapple Retreat likely features more developed facilities and possibly cabin accommodations rather than the rustic, primitive camping experience found at McKee's public campgrounds.

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