Cabins near Means, Kentucky cluster around the western edge of Daniel Boone National Forest at elevations between 700-1,000 feet. The region experiences warm summers with high humidity and mild winters, with peak cabin rental seasons running April through October. Most cabin rentals require booking at least 3-4 weeks in advance during summer months when average temperatures reach 85°F.
What to do
Kayaking on the Licking River: Paddle the calm waters accessible from The Ole Cornfield campground. "The grandkids love to play in the river, which is about 1 to 2 feet deep at this location. Great for wading and catching minnows, crawdads, and such," notes camper Karen P. Kayak rentals with shuttle service to the dam are available for a roughly 2-hour float back to the campground.
Fishing opportunities: Cave Run Lake near Zilpo Campground offers bass and muskie fishing. "Great spot right on the water," mentions Elizabeth C. The small fishing pond at 4 Guys RV Park provides a convenient option for casual anglers staying in their cabin accommodations.
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Purchase a $5 three-day parking pass at the Shell gas station on Campton Road to access Princess Arch, which offers "105ft of elevation and is a quick 0.6 mi hike from the parking loop," according to Wayne H. Many cabin locations provide easy access to multiple hiking trails throughout Red River Gorge Geological Area.
Rock climbing access: The area is world-renowned for climbing opportunities. "A fantastic place for primitive backpack camping! There are 100's of rock climbs on bullet proof rock!" notes Alan B. Many cabins serve as base camps for climbers exploring the sandstone cliffs throughout the gorge.
What campers like
Private, spacious campsites: Twin Knobs Recreation Area offers well-separated cabin and camping areas. "The campground is in a wooded area and each campsite is separate by woods from the nearby sites," reports Stephen H. This layout provides a sense of seclusion even at popular locations.
Clean facilities: Most cabin providers maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. "Their bath/shower house is really clean and with heat/air," mentions Karen P. about The Ole Cornfield. This attention to cleanliness extends to many cabin rentals throughout the region.
Water access: Many cabins provide direct water access for recreation. "We stayed in one of the 'premium' sites, right on the water F19. The view was incredible," shares Paul K. about their Twin Knobs experience. Waterfront cabin options typically book fastest during summer months.
Trail connectivity: Lago Linda Hideaway offers immediate trail access from their cabins. "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," shares Sarah H. Most cabin locations connect to broader trail networks.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book cabins well in advance for peak seasons. "Sites are okay. We had one with trees so got some shade. Staff is friendly," notes Rick W. about Natural Bridge Campground. Most cabin providers require full payment at booking during high season.
Amenity variations: Cabin furnishings vary significantly between providers. "No water hookup? Lovely site, totally private, on the lake, but really inconvenient if you want water hookup," mentions Becky H. Always confirm specific amenities when booking.
Vehicle access considerations: Some cabin areas have limited access for larger vehicles. "The road getting to the campsite is mostly one lane so if you are in an RV, go slow," advises Heather K. about Lago Linda Hideaway. Many cabins require driving on gravel roads.
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds with cabins operate seasonally. "Season: April 25 to November 2" applies to multiple facilities in the area, including Zilpo Campground. Verify operating dates when planning trips outside summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Red River Adventure provides river access for supervised swimming. "The campsites are very large and spacious - they have firewood and porta-potties on site and its right along the river," notes Mark W. Most cabin locations near water don't have lifeguards.
Playground accessibility: 4 Guys RV Park offers family-friendly amenities. "They have a small fishing pond, swimming pool, basketball court, and a playground," reports Christy W. Cabin locations with dedicated children's facilities tend to book quickly during school breaks.
Educational opportunities: Natural Bridge State Park cabins provide proximity to nature programs. "Every time I've camped the Gorge I head to the water hole and jumping rock. There are plenty of other campers but just enough to give you some happy company," shares Jess P. Many cabin rentals include information about nearby ranger-led activities.
Wildlife viewing: Cabins throughout the region offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "The camping ground is always extremely clean as are the bathrooms. Water and electric on site with a wide spot. We were able to put up a 20 x 10 canopy outside of our camper canopy with plenty of extra room. Lots of space for the kids to run," notes Karen P. about The Ole Cornfield.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: 4 Guys RV Park provides full-service connections. "Loads of amenities; clean/hot showers, playgrounds, pool, full hookups, campstore, fire rings & picnic tables at each sight and nice views," reports Jen K. Most cabin areas also accommodate RVs with varying hookup options.
Site leveling: Many cabin areas with RV options feature prepared sites. "The sites are level and pull through with 50 amp service. There is city water available and a dump station," notes Karen P. Confirm specific site dimensions when booking for larger RVs.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant rainfall. "We stayed June 5th through June 9th and it rained every day, a lot. Our campsite (A-30) drained the rain off really well," shares Karen P. about Twin Knobs. Cabin rentals provide shelter during inclement weather while still allowing outdoor access.
Parking logistics: Commercial campgrounds typically offer adequate parking. "Convenient to mountain parkway. Large level sites. Commercial campground, so sites are close without trees to separate," reports Anne D. Most cabin rentals include parking for 1-2 vehicles, with overflow parking available.
