Best Tent Camping near Olive Hill, KY

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Olive Hill and then fall asleep in your tent? Find the best information on tent camping near Olive Hill, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Olive Hill, Kentucky's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Olive Hill, KY (23)

    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield

    1. The Ole Cornfield

    9 Reviews
    37 Photos
    52 Saves
    Salt Lick, Kentucky

    Local Family Owned & Operated est.2012 Riverside Campground RV & Tent Camping 50amp, 30amp, 110v NEW Bathhouse Kayak/Canoe Rental & Shuttle Service

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    2. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    43 Photos
    78 Saves
    Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

    Paragon is a primitive camping area with 7 designated campsites, some with lantern posts and fire rings. Alert: August 21, 2019 - The U.S. Forest Service opened a section of Paragon Road on Friday, August 16, 2019. The gate closest to Highway 519 was opened and motor vehicles will be able to drive to the first two loops commonly used for camping, swimming, and fishing. The new gate has been installed to allow vehicle access into the area while road work and repairs continue. The new gate will also allow the two camping loops to remain open when Cave Run Lake is 1.5 to 2 feet above summer pool and inundating the lowest portions of Paragon Road, which has occurred many times in the last decade and resulted in closure of the entire road and camping area. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your trip to this area. Learn more... The campground is located on the Cumberland Ranger District, Daniel Boone National Forest. Cave Run Lake is widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities. The lake is also the home of Kentucky's state record muskie.This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. Nearby facilities: Poppin Rock Boat Ramp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground

    3. Red River Gorge Campground

    22 Reviews
    124 Photos
    378 Saves
    Slade, Kentucky

    Red River Gorge Campground is known for its picturesque surroundings and range of outdoor activities. The campground is located in the heart of Red River Gorge, a geological wonderland with soaring sandstone cliffs, natural arches and deep gorges. The area is popular with hikers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous trails for all levels of experience, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking and fishing. Red River Gorge Campground provides a one-of-a-kind camping experience in Kentucky.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)

    4. Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)

    19 Reviews
    36 Photos
    84 Saves
    Slade, Kentucky
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures

    5. Red River Gorge Adventures

    8 Reviews
    43 Photos
    94 Saves
    Slade, Kentucky

    The campground is on 10 acres of tree lined frontage on the Red River. There is a mix of trees/shade and open fields. It is a primitive campground, meaning that there are no power hook-ups or running water. There is an excellent canoe/kayak take-out. It's location in the heart of the Gorge makes it the perfect place for riverside camping and provides access to hiking trails.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $8 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp
    • No image available

      7. Pine Knob Loop Campground

      1 Review
      9 Saves
      Pedro, Ohio

      The Wayne National Forest have been working to repair a major waterline break at Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area. This will affect the timely opening of all campgrounds at Lake Vesuvius. At this time, campgrounds are scheduled to reopen Friday, May 22nd, unless repairs are completed sooner. All affected customers’ reservations prior to 5/22/2020 will be fully refunded.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Toilets
      • No image available

        8. Free Spirit Homestead

        Be the first to review!
        2 Saves
        Morehead, Kentucky

        Hey y'all,

        Here at the Free Spirit Homestead we encourage visitors to fully immerse themselves into the homestead lifestyle. However, if you are just looking for a beautiful spot to camp for a night and just relax, we're that spot too.

        Hang by the firepit, hike trails through our beautiful woods, & don't forget to pet Gemma the goat!

        We have a couple primitive sites around a large communal firepit in our lower field, on on top of our "mountain ", which is about a 3/4 mile hike in the woods. It is beautiful! We have backpacking/hammock sites throughout 44acres of woods.

        We also have optional foraging hikes/plant medicine hikes we put on for anyone interested in learning! Let us know.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • Tents
        • Trash

        $15 / night

        • No image available
          • No image available
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          Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

          Recent Tent Reviews in Olive Hill

          640 Reviews of 23 Olive Hill Campgrounds


          • Bob M.
            Camper-submitted photo from East Fork (WV)
            Nov. 19, 2024

            East Fork (WV)

            Decent Place

            We camped here for 6 nights just before Halloween, enjoyed it. Not a lot to do unless you have a boat, but it's a scenic area. Ended up here because we had to avoid our original plans due to Hurricane Helene.

          • DD
            Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
            Nov. 17, 2024

            The Ole Cornfield

            This Place is Awesome! Favorite Camping Spot Ever

            James, Lauren and their crew were the best! Everyone was so friendly and helpful. The camping is just so relaxing, right on the river, open space, beautiful land! We can't wait to visit again.

          • Megan M.
            Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee State Park Campground
            Nov. 6, 2024

            Shawnee State Park Campground

            Some secluded sites in woods- nice!

            This campground has some features that are nicer than what is found in many state campgrounds. There are some secluded sites back in the woods, so you don't feel like you are camping in a parking lot in a few places. NOTE that most of these secluded sites (along the back edge of the campground) are up a flight of stairs. You have to carry all your gear up a hill or stairs to set up. You will not be near your car, which can get annoying.

            The bathrooms were average, not great but not gross. We were there on their Halloween weekend, with a fun site-decorating contest and trick or treat in the afternoon, which was mildly annoying for us because they closed the roads from 2 to 6 so we could not drive back to our site, and when we finally could, someone was in our parking pot for the next hour. 

            The lakes are quite tiny. The one at the campground is more like a large pond- fine for paddling around on a paddleboard for practice, but don't think you'll get in any meaningful kayaking or sight-seeing on this pond. The other lake is slightly bigger, but still not big enough for kayaking more than a couple hours at most.

            The new campground is on the river on what used to be the golf course- I will write a separate review for that.

            The lodge has some amenities (pool, hot tub, cafe, bar), but we ate in the restaurant and it was terrible. I do not recommend. Get some apps at the bar if you have to but keep your expectations low. We had pork nachos and the pork tasted old, everything was cold and it gave me a terrible stomachache.

          • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
            Oct. 19, 2024

            Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

            Beautiful location just off a paved road

            We came in on a Friday late afternoon and there were only a few camping sites available. We found a spot right on the lake.

            Our first morning a heron was fishing in the lake less than 100 feet from us. We saw him catch a fish. There were woodpeckers, hawks and several other birds I did not recognize.

            The view of the lake from our camp site was amazing. Very picture worthy!

            The campsites are pretty close together providing less than optimal privacy. Some of the campers stayed up late but they kept the noise level down.

            While there we saw one group hang a deer carcass in a tree. Good times!

          • S
            Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
            Oct. 12, 2024

            Natural Bridge Campground

            Not as advertised

            The amenities are not worth the price. The bathrooms are not clean. We paid for a campsite that had water and electric but we had to share water with another site. Luckily there were a splitter available. The sites in the 30s look like they may be spacious but you are on top of one another.

            The 5 star review on here is regarding the state park camping, not this site. Would not return.

          • Ashley P.
            Camper-submitted photo from Falls Campground
            Oct. 1, 2024

            Falls Campground

            Great spot.

            The people that work here are so very nice. I love the relaxed chill atmosphere. I always come on a Sunday or a weeknights it is pretty empty and the campsites are too close together for me to go on a weekend. I think the sites should be less than $40 on a slow night but I still love it here.

          • Patti W.
            Camper-submitted photo from Callie’s Lake and Campground
            Sep. 26, 2024

            Callie’s Lake and Campground

            NOT happy,

            Made reservations almost a month in advance, arrived on given day and could not level our RV on a very unlevel lot couldnt even get our steps to come out as they hit gravel. Tried to move the RV around for over an hour and finally went to the store to inform them of our trouble. We were told they had no other space for us, so we had no choice but to leave. This was NOT our choice, they did not deliver what they had promised, yet no refund, or even a partial refund was offered. 3 years being full time on the road, this was a first such experience, and their lack of concern made us not happy.

            .UPDATE Callie and I have talked and our issues have been resolved. We visited Callies Lake& Campground, no overnight stay

          • BluePitMom O.
            Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Springs Campground
            Sep. 24, 2024

            Sandy Springs Campground

            Serene!

            We stayed from Sunday until Tuesday and didn't want to leave! The campground offers something for everyone: playground equipment, basketball hoop and various balls, access to the river for fishing, and absolutely stunning views of the Ohio as well as the surrounding hills.

            The campers were friendly. Nobody was loud and obnoxious. The owners Julie and Darcy are super nice and helpful.

            We liked the campground so much we're returning in a few weeks!

          • BThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Clear Creek Rec Area
            Sep. 13, 2024

            Clear Creek Rec Area

            Beautiful creek

            Pros: Beautiful little creek. Well spaced sites. Low usage. Some sites are long. Nice hiking trails from campsite. Most sites are shaded.

            Cons: Close to a moderately used road.

            Pit toilets, picnic tables, gravel pads.

          • Chaz M.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
            Sep. 12, 2024

            Natural Bridge Campground

            A lot to do

            There is so much to do nearby. Awesome stores and adventures. Campground has WiFi, fishing for kids, and is in a great location.

          • James R.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Ashland Huntington West KOA
            Aug. 12, 2024

            Ashland Huntington West KOA

            Two night stay

            Start off by saying the staff were super great!!!! Stayed in space #1 and all the upper spots are open, wish they had more trees around the spaces. Overall it was still a great experience staying at this location.

          • Todd C.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Yatesville Lake State Park Campground
            Aug. 5, 2024

            Yatesville Lake State Park Campground

            Still a favorite

            We had a great time as usual. Nice, quiet and overall clean. Our fire pit was dirty with trash and looked like it had been ran over or something which is surprising for the park.

          • EThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Springs Campground
            Jul. 25, 2024

            Sandy Springs Campground

            Fun for all

            The campsite is totally geared towards family fun! The owners are so hospitable, that you feel like family! One of the most fun places we’ve ever stayed! My kids were busy nonstop with planned fun activities! And they had things for the adults as well and a lot of things for everyone to do together!

          • Corey K.
            Camper-submitted photo from Carter Caves State Resort Park
            Jul. 17, 2024

            Carter Caves State Resort Park

            State Park with Abundance of Nature

            A very nice state park with an abundance of natural resources surrounding the campground. There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds. The caves themselves are quite the treat.

            The staff are all very friendly and there are camping sites for tents or rigs. However, like many state parks that have not been updated, navigating into some of the spots with a large rig can be challenging. On the one hand, this is nice as there are mature trees throughout. On the other hand, they could increase the size / length of the existing campsites. There is a nice playground and a camp store for any items you have forgotten.

            The lodge is available down the road (within the state park) for dinner if you are looking to mix up the trip. Not fine dining, but decent food. There is also a pool available at a discounted rate for campers - which our kids enjoyed. Note: there are no full hookup sites, which is not uncommon for KY State Parks.

          • Jennifer M.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
            Jul. 7, 2024

            Zilpo Campground

            Beautiful campground

            Quiet, less utilized campground on Cave Run Lake. Campsites have more privacy and are more primitive. There is a bathhouse, but it is not regularly maintained. This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing. Some of the campsites have private beaches.

          • Kenda A.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Timbre Ridge Lake
            Jul. 5, 2024

            Timbre Ridge Lake

            Beautiful area

            We spent one night of dispersal camping here. It was a beautiful area with a vault toilet. We felt safe enough to leave our windows only screened.

            There were fishermen coming and going several times through the night.

            The vault toilet had not been cleaned recently, nor had trash been emptied.

          • David B.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Grayson Lake State Park Campground
            Jun. 30, 2024

            Grayson Lake State Park Campground

            Very beautiful

            This place is very beautiful first and foremost. You can fish, rent boats and kayaks. Also the hiking isn’t to bad! They even have tennis courts and a small water park.

          • Katrin M.
            Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
            Jun. 23, 2024

            Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

            Very nice campground

            We camped here over the weekend in a double campsite. It was very spacious and clean. The site had 2 picnic tables, 2 lantern poles, and and a fire pit. Everything was leveled, so the tent set up was really easy. The campground is very well maintained. Some sites have stairs in order to reach the tent pads. There is a bathhouse with flushing toilets and nice showers. They also have pit toilets, which I never used. There are several trails, that start from the campground. The area is absolutely stunning, but it was extremely hot, so we couldn't do too much hiking. But the plan is to return in fall.

          • J
            Camper-submitted photo from Jenny Wiley State Park Campground
            Jun. 14, 2024

            Jenny Wiley State Park Campground

            Needs to be updated and repaired

            Roads in campground are rough in places. Electrical boxes are in rough shape at some sites. 30 amp kept tripping the breaker. WiFi does not work. Several sites have full hookup but sewer hookups need to be repaired and water hookups are far away.

          • JThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Hanging Rock Recreation Site
            Jun. 12, 2024

            Hanging Rock Recreation Site

            Better Than Walmart

            We stayed in the parking lot as it was getting dark and didn’t know if there were any place to turn our rv around. Very quiet night and were visited by fireflies which was awesome.

          • Ashlee G.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Woodstock Campground
            Jun. 8, 2024

            Woodstock Campground

            Our fave primitive camp in the RRG!

            We LOVE Woodstock! Such a beautiful, open, peaceful property and each site has its own handmade benches and firepit. Literally right off the road for Red River Gorge so you’re 10 minutes from creation falls, sky bridge, chimney top rock, etc. Also right down the road from Sky Station and The Brick for beers, ice cream and coffee. Also just 15 minutes from the amazing Muir Valley climbing area. Literally couldn’t ask for a better location for a weekend in RRG. Not to mention how peaceful it is, away from the hustle and bustle of the other camps in Slade.

            Ronnie is the kindest host, very considerate and welcoming. He helped us when we pulled in to guide our big rig to the best spot (35 foot camper). He has tent sites and space for RVs but it is primitive camping so be prepared - no water or bathrooms available. Oh and cash only!

            We can’t wait to be back. Thanks Ronnie!

          • p
            Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Camping and Fishing
            May. 31, 2024

            Wildcat Camping and Fishing

            Very Nice Place

            We have been here for a little over a month now. Nice level gravel sites with grass around them. Full hookups 30/50A at each site. Wifi. Could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels. There is a paylake with small shelter areas, playground, horseshoe pit, game room, community gathering area, store with snacks, drinks, tackle and other items. There are restrooms, but no showers or laundry. Beautiful area. About 11 miles to Paintsville, which has all the stores you'd need. Some closer convenience stores. Johnny and Regina, the owners, couldn't be any nicer. Very good monthly rates. Can receive mail and packages.

          • B
            Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park
            May. 27, 2024

            Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

            Well Maintained Campground in RRG

            We stayed here while some of our group did some rock climbing in the area.  The camp staff was super helpful and offered to rearrange a few sites that were open so that our tents would fit better.  It was during the week, so not all of the sites were full which gave him some flexibility.   Some of the sites in the RV area are pretty small so do some checking when you select.


          Drive Time


          Guide to Olive Hill

          Tent camping near Olive Hill, Kentucky, offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it an ideal getaway for nature enthusiasts. With various campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and enjoy the great outdoors.

          Tips for tent camping near Olive Hill

          • North Fork provides a serene environment for tent campers, with access to beautiful natural landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere.
          • Clay Lick is a great choice for those looking for a rustic experience, featuring basic amenities and a chance to connect with nature.
          • Paragon Dispersed Camping Area allows for a more adventurous camping experience, where you can enjoy the freedom of camping without the usual amenities.

          Tent campers appreciate these amenities

          • The Ole Cornfield offers essential amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, and clean shower facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
          • Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp features well-maintained restrooms and picnic tables, making it a convenient option for families.
          • Free Spirit Homestead allows campfires and pets, creating a welcoming atmosphere for those who want to enjoy a cozy night under the stars.

          Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $30

          • Paragon Dispersed Camping Area is a budget-friendly option, allowing you to camp for free while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding nature.
          • North Fork offers affordable rates for tent camping, making it accessible for those looking to explore the outdoors without breaking the bank.
          • Clay Lick provides a low-cost camping experience, perfect for those who appreciate the simplicity of nature without the frills.

          Frequently Asked Questions

          • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Olive Hill, KY?

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Olive Hill, KY is The Ole Cornfield with a 5-star rating from 9 reviews.

          • What is the best site to find tent camping near Olive Hill, KY?

            TheDyrt.com has all 23 tent camping locations near Olive Hill, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.