Daniel Boone National Forest encompasses the camping areas near Slade, Kentucky, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,300 feet throughout the region. The diverse topography creates microclimates where temperatures can vary by 5-10 degrees between valley floors and ridge tops. Fall camping offers peak nighttime temperatures of 45-55°F, while summer typically ranges from 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Callie's Lake and Campground provides a small lake for fishing, though permits are required ($5 for adults) and it's catch-and-release only. "They have a general store stocked with necessities you may have forgotten. The store also sales live bait to fish in the lake with," notes Josh N.
Trail access from camps: Koomer Ridge Campground connects directly to nearby hiking networks. "Multiple trails leave straight out of the campground and head into the Red River Gorge, a nice feature," writes Jeffrey A. The campground serves as an excellent base for mountain biking as well, with one camper noting, "Koomer Ridge campground has a great location for mountain biking (what we went for), hiking, fishing - anything really!"
Swimming spots: Red River Gorge Adventures offers riverside camping with natural swimming options. A camper explains, "If you wade out into the water about 15ft upstream of the boat launch, the river is relatively flat with a sandy bottom that is about 5' at normal water level. Excellent place for an afternoon swim or a rinse after a hot day of climbing."
Rock climbing access: For climbing enthusiasts, several campgrounds provide convenient access to routes. "This campground and purveyor of pizza caters mainly to the climbing community," notes Theresa D. about Miguel's Pizza, while another camper recommends, "Definitely worth a visit if youre a climber looking for a partner or maybe just some project beta!"
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Middle Fork Campground at Natural Bridge State Resort Park offers creek-side camping with ample space. "We stayed here Mothers Day weekend. Had perfect weather and our tent site was by the creek so we could here running water all night. It was so peaceful!" reports Mary B.
Quiet weekday camping: Many campers note the difference between weekday and weekend occupancy. "Nobody is there during the weekday. But the weekend is usually packed," mentions Taylour B. about camping in the area. This pattern appears consistent across most campgrounds in the region.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking seclusion, dispersed camping provides alternatives to established campgrounds. "Beauty in ever direction. get a back country pass and head for one of the many trails or stay at one of the campgrounds in the area," advises Tammy G. about Red River Gorge Geological Area.
Lake recreation: Lago Linda Hideaway features a small lake ideal for summer swimming. "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 Lena L. about her experience at this campground.
What you should know
Campground terrain: Whittleton Campground at Natural Bridge State Resort Park offers a mix of site types. "Whittleton Sites are level, not huge, well kept. Good mix of shade and sun. Small creek runs behind camper and tent sites," reports Betsy H. However, some campers note the sites can be tight: "Campsites are tight! Had trouble backing in our 32' bumper pull."
Weather preparedness: Seasonal temperature variations affect camping comfort. "I slept in a truck tent and when it started to snow they offered to move me to a warmer spot just in case," notes Sarah H. about her spring camping experience at Lago Linda Hideaway.
Cell service limitations: Communication can be unreliable in the gorge area. "No cell nor wifi. But all in all a nice park with tons of trails and some awesome sights," mentions Gary P. about Middle Fork Campground. This limitation extends throughout most of the region, particularly in valley areas.
Tick awareness: During warmer months, ticks are present in the area. "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 Lena L.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Natural Bridge Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "The staff was amazing, little games available like badminton, and very clean!" reports Jacklyn A. Families can find entertainment options both at the campground and nearby attractions.
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families with children. "We love to camp at Koomer Ridge when we decide not to primitive camp. The campground has a very nice set up along with some great trails!" shares Brittany P. Another camper notes, "Koomer ridge is a great campground if you don't want to hike to camp, it's kid and dog friendly!"
Educational opportunities: The surrounding area offers learning experiences for children. "Close to the Reptile Zoo which is a short walk away," mentions Hannah F. about Natural Bridge Campground, providing families with educational day trip options within walking distance of their campsites.
Weekend noise considerations: Family campers should be aware that weekends bring more activity and noise. "This campground has decent facilities and some shaded areas. The reason for my low rating is that it's 11:00 pm and someone is singing karaoke. I mean loud, amplified country music," reports Colleen M. about Natural Bridge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: When reserving RV sites, space considerations are important. "Sites were level; some were paved, and some were gravel (riverfront sites tended to be gravel). Most are back-in, but the middle row has pull-thru sites, however, if you had a large RV with a toad, you would likely not have room for both in your site," advises Lee D. about Middle Fork Campground.
Hookup variations: Electric hookup options vary between campgrounds. "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," notes Shelly S. about camping at Lago Linda Hideaway.
Campground navigation: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. "The road getting to the campsite is mostly one lane so is you are in an RV, go slow. The area for RV's is a little tight in the trees and probably won't accommodate an extremely large vehicle," warns Heather K.
Road noise considerations: Proximity to roads affects some campsites. "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. But in the campervan it wasn't noticeable, fortunately!" notes Jeffrey A. about Koomer Ridge Campground.
