Camping opportunities near McKee, Kentucky include both primitive sites and developed campgrounds across varied elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Several campgrounds in this area maintain year-round operations with limited winter services.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park Campground offers various hiking paths with historical significance. "The hiking trails are quite historic with Daniel Boone and other settlers' stories, including a historic mill, stone church, and cemeteries," notes a visitor. The trails connect to preserved historical structures.
Fishing opportunities: At Buckhorn Dam Campground, campers can fish directly from their sites. "We got to fish right beside our camper," one camper reports. The campground provides access to Buckhorn Lake and nearby creek fishing with multiple shoreline access points.
Swimming options: Multiple locations offer water recreation during warmer months. "Since it was so warm, we took a dip in the lake. Our site was spacious and pretty, with plenty of room for our two tents and a hammock," shares a visitor to Lago Linda Hideaway. Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with varying safety features.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. At Buckhorn Dam Campground, visitors appreciate the practical amenities: "The bathrooms and showers was clean. They have a place to do laundry. Very nice playground, basketball court, swing, and volleyball court."
Spacious sites: HomeGrown HideAways offers larger camping areas than many nearby alternatives. "Beautiful, beautiful spot. One of my favorite campgrounds. An unbelievable community shelter and community kitchen. Nested between 2 mountains," reports a satisfied camper.
Friendly staff: Corbin - Laurel Lake KOA receives consistent praise for customer service. "At check in, they led us to our spot in their golf cart, making sure everything was good for our set up. They checked on us multiple times during our 4 day stay," mentions one review. Many campgrounds offer personalized assistance with firewood delivery and site selection.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water-based activities vary by season. "We went during late March and will definitely go again when it's warmer to enjoy swimming in the lake!" notes a Lago Linda visitor. Most lakes and rivers reach comfortable swimming temperatures from late May through early September.
Wildlife awareness: Tick prevention should be part of your camping preparation. "I will say we found a few lone star ticks (dead thanks to her prevention) on our dog. Just as a heads up to campers. Always do your tick checks!" advises a camper.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. Red River Gorge Adventures can reach capacity during summer weekends. "We spent a great day in the river and an even better night in our hammocks!" shares a camper who secured a reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer children's play areas. At Buckhorn Dam Campground, families appreciate the recreational options: "Hands down the best playground for kids we have seen in a campground." These facilities provide entertainment when not hiking or swimming.
Kid-friendly glamping: Alternative glamping in McKee, Kentucky area provides unique family accommodations. "We stayed at the Yome, and it was perfect for our family of four. Instead of sleeping in it, which would have been perfectly comfortable, we actually used it as more of an extra shelter and we pitched out tents in the field in front of the Yome," explains a HomeGrown HideAways visitor.
Educational opportunities: Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park combines recreation with learning experiences. "Pretty wooded spot along the water with lots of history to explore. Pros: lots to do (pool, museum & historic buildings, some hiking trails, ranger talks, playground, sports fields, pool)," shares a visitor. Many campgrounds host ranger programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Come prepared with leveling equipment. At Corbin - Laurel Lake KOA, one RVer notes: "Our sites A little uneven and took me some time to get my camper level." Many campgrounds in this mountainous region require blocks or levelers due to terrain.
RV site selection: When seeking glamping or RV camping near McKee, Kentucky, consider carefully which sites can accommodate your vehicle size. "The RV's is a little tight in the trees and probably won't accommodate an extremely large vehicle. However, there is a huge open field on further into the camp that should be fairly easy to turn around in," advises a Lago Linda Hideaway visitor.
