Red River Gorge camping near Stanton, Kentucky offers primitive backcountry options alongside established campgrounds at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,200 feet. The region's sandstone cliffs and natural arches create a landscape unlike anywhere else in Kentucky, with over 100 natural stone arches documented throughout the area. Fall temperatures typically range from 40-70°F while summer months can reach highs in the 90s with significant humidity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Callie's Lake and Campground provides a small lake for fishing, though a permit is required. "It was $5 for an adult to fish, and catch and release only," notes David C., who appreciated this family-friendly option just minutes from Red River Gorge.
Primitive hiking campsites: For those seeking a more remote experience, Red River Gorge Campground offers backcountry camping opportunities. Wayne H. advises: "Pick up your parking pass at the Shell gas station at 12187 Campton rd, Stanton, KY. A three days pass is $5." These primitive sites require self-sufficiency but provide direct access to the region's extensive trail network.
Morning creek exploration: Multiple campgrounds feature creek access for morning explorations. At Middle Fork Campground, one camper noted they "really enjoyed swimming in and following the creek upstream," making it an excellent cool-down activity during hot summer days.
Mountain biking access: Koomer Ridge serves as an excellent base for cyclists. According to Erin H., "Koomer Ridge campground has a great location for mountain biking (what we went for), hiking, fishing - anything really! The Daniel Boone Nat Forest is, I think, at its most beautiful in late spring."
What campers like
Secluded tent areas: Many campers appreciate the dedicated tent-only sections at several campgrounds. Mary B. notes about Middle Fork Campground: "You can stay in the tent site only area which I recommend if you want to be away from the noise and lights of a campground... It was so peaceful!"
Budget-friendly primitive options: Experienced campers value the affordability of backcountry sites. Natasha T. mentions about Red River Gorge: "Red river gorge as a whole is one of my favorite places. I personally prefer to camp off-site but you need a pass. Luckily it's only $5."
Well-drained campsites: Given the region's rainfall patterns, site drainage is important. At Twin Knobs Recreation Area, one camper reported: "We stayed June 5th through June 9th and it rained every day, a lot. Our campsite (A-30) drained the rain off really well."
Variety of accommodation types: Lago Linda Hideaway offers options from tent sites to cabins. One reviewer observed, "There are cabins to rent. The cabins are tucked in the trees and are very cozy. The cabin we stayed in on one of our visits, had a queen bed, kitchen area and bathroom with a shower."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. Gary P. mentions that at Middle Fork Campground, there's "No cell nor wifi," which matches reports from other locations throughout the gorge.
Weekend crowding: Several campsites become busy on weekends, especially during peak season. At Whittleton Campground, Alan B. advised: "A fantastic place for primitive backpack camping! There are 100's of rock climbs on bullet proof rock! Just try to come here during the weekdays as the weekend we were there it was a zoo!"
Limited shower facilities: Bathroom and shower availability varies widely between campgrounds. Will K. notes that Koomer Ridge is "nice, quiet and primitive" with clean bathrooms but no showers, while Jeffrey A. found the shower house "clean though chilly but had hot & cold running water."
Traffic noise considerations: When selecting your campsite near Stanton, consider proximity to roads. Jeffrey A. observed at Koomer Ridge: "Only criticism is the proximity to the Mountain Parkway nearby; had we been tent camping, the traffic noise would have been a nuisance all night."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Callie's Lake and Campground offers features specifically for families with children. "This is a great family campground, they had small lake (I'd call it a pond) for swimming and fishing... There was a play ground for the kids," reports David C.
Educational opportunities: Natural Bridge State Park offers family programming. Brittany S. shares: "They offer all kinds of wonderful things there especially for kids, there is even a cave tour every week day!"
Trail accessibility: Campgrounds with direct trail access make family outings easier. Janice C. found that at Koomer Ridge, "There is a great trail right off the parking lot and you're close to a great many other trails and activities."
Site selection for privacy: When camping with kids, site location matters. At Twin Knobs Recreation Area, Karen P. recommends: "We had two campers on the site with plenty of room. One is 37 ft and the other is 24 ft... All of the teens that were with us had a ball (hiking, biking, basketball, and fishing)."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites that may challenge larger RVs. One camper at Natural Bridge Campground reported: "Arrived on given day and could not level our RV on a very unlevel lot couldn't even get our steps to come out as they hit gravel."
Limited full hookup availability: While many campgrounds offer electric, full hookups are less common. At Lago Linda Hideaway, Shelly S. advises: "There are limited 30 amp sites and several sites with electric. Lazy Oaks and Piney are in the trees, Cardinal which is good for larger RVs is in the field, no shade."
Tight navigation at some campgrounds: Larger RVs may struggle at certain locations. Chris C. notes about Whittleton Campground: "Beautiful area. Campsites are tight! Had trouble backing in our 32' bumper pull."
Water hookup access: Water access points can be limited at some campgrounds. One Twin Knobs camper noted their site was "lovely, totally private, on the lake, but really inconvenient if you want water hookup."
