Tent camping options near McKee, Kentucky span across the Daniel Boone National Forest, offering sites at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with nighttime lows around 65°F, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with daytime temperatures between 60-75°F. The region's limestone geology creates distinctive terrain features including rock shelters and natural bridges that tent campers can access via numerous hiking trails.
What to do
Hiking to natural formations: Several trails near HomeGrown HideAways offer access to unique geological features. "Nested between 2 mountains. An unbelievable community shelter and community kitchen," notes Frank H., highlighting the scenic location that serves as a good basecamp for exploring nearby trails.
Water activities during summer: The Red River provides swimming opportunities at Red River Gorge Adventures, where campsites are positioned along the riverbank. One camper shares, "This campground is actually a veteran owned boating rental/shuttle service with an attached campground. This campground is only a two mile paddle to the infamous jump rock and swim hole."
Boat-in camping adventures: For a unique experience, Grove Boat-In Campground offers sites accessible only by water. "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," writes Emilee B., describing the adventure of reaching these secluded camping spots.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Tent campers appreciate the isolation available at certain campgrounds. At Clifty Campground, "Best site for privacy is 49 plus it's pretty big. Sites 40-47 have electric and water. Sites 48-50 do not but all sites are close to the bath house," according to Lydia, who values site privacy over amenities.
Community atmosphere: Some tent campers seek more social settings. "This is my all time favorite campground. It's very spacious, I've camped on holiday weekends and never had other campers within 100 ft of my site," a reviewer notes about Red River Adventures, adding, "The owners and all staff are the friendliest people I've ever met."
Varied terrain options: Different camping experiences are available based on landscape preferences. A camper reports about Red River Gorge, "primitive and paid campsites both available, depending on your comfort level and preference. I prefer primitive... The best campsites are by water."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Backcountry camping requires proper documentation. For Hanson's Point at Red River Gorge Campground, "To get to Hanson's point you'll have to earn it by hiking for about 2.5 miles, but trust me when I say it's worth it. The campsites at Hanson's Point are primitive campsites, so make sure you bring EVERYTHING you need for your stay."
Firewood considerations: Local wood supplies vary in quality. At Red River Adventures, "I would suggest bring your own fire wood and do not by it there at the camp the wood they gave us was not good and wouldn't catch fire," warns Vince B.
Seasonal access limitations: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. A visitor to Rockcastle notes, "Campground is closed, but the boat launch is open. Might be able to park in boat launch parking. Clean pit toilets."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Seek out campgrounds with amenities for younger campers. "This campground is in a great location. Only a 10 minute drive from Somerset, the 'big' city, for supplies & food. There's many places for kids to play, a basketball court, volleyball court, disk golf, and a small beach area," shares Anna C. about Pulaski County Park.
Farm experiences: Children enjoy interactive campgrounds. "We had such an amazing time at HomeGrown HideAways!! We stayed at the Yome, and it was perfect for our family of four. There are ducks and chickens around, and the eggs are always available. There's also a few super friendly dogs to visit," explains Cassandra C.
Water safety considerations: When camping with children near water features, choose appropriate sites. "There are a variety of 'types' of campsites. By that I mean there are wide open spaces, sites in the trees, sites with sandy floors, etc. The entire campground runs alongside the river bank," notes a Red River Adventures camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: RV campers should assess site dimensions carefully. At Pulaski County Park, "I've been there several times and just recently found another parking area and trailhead. The layout of the park is also confusing at times," writes Shelly S., highlighting the importance of scouting sites before committing.
Utility access notes: Electric hookups vary by site. At Clifty Campground, "Sites 40-47 have electric and water. Sites 48-50 do not but all sites are close to the bath house," which matters for RV campers requiring hookups.
Space considerations: Many tent camping areas near McKee accommodate RVs with limitations. "The sites are inconsistent between their sizes on the Clifty campground. I had to be careful when parking as I had to avoid the water supply, 2 trees, a safety pole for the water supply (painted brown), electricity box, and then the drop off on the other side of the road," explains a Clifty camper.
