Dispersed camping near Olive Hill, Kentucky offers sites throughout the Daniel Boone National Forest region where eastern Kentucky's foothills create varied terrain between 700-1,200 feet elevation. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Fall camping season typically runs September through early November when hardwood forests display peak colors and temperatures moderate to 50-70°F during daytime.
What to do
Kayaking on the Licking River: Launch from The Ole Cornfield where staff provide shuttle service upstream. "The ride from the dam down to the campground is beautiful and serene. It is great for beginning kayakers," notes one visitor who appreciated the gentle current suitable for novices.
Rock climbing at natural formations: Experienced climbers can access multiple routes at Red River Gorge Campground which features sandstone cliffs and arches. According to a climber, "A fantastic place for primitive backpack camping! There are 100's of rock climbs on bullet proof rock!"
Wildlife observation near Cave Run Lake: Early mornings provide optimal wildlife viewing conditions. One camper at Paragon reported, "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."
What campers like
Secluded riverside camping: Red River Gorge Adventures offers tent sites along the water with space between neighbors. A camper mentioned, "This campground is very spacious, I've camped on holiday weekends and never had other campers within 100 ft of my site."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-cost sites at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area. One reviewer called it a "broke campers dream" explaining it's "awesome for those who like to camp for free. Right off the highway! Located on Cave Run Lake. No fire pits, no restrooms, no water or electricity hookups."
Natural swimming areas: Several locations offer water access for cooling off. "We spent a great day in the river and an even better night in our hammocks!" remarked a visitor at Red River Adventures, while another noted the "jump rock and swim hole" located "just a two mile paddle" from camp.
What you should know
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Paragon Dispersed Camping Area provides minimal amenities. "This is dispersed camping, meaning there are no amenities besides a pit toilet and a few fire rings. Make sure to bring your own water treatment," notes one camper who visited in 2017.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. At White Sulphur Horse Camp, a camper reported "slight cell service for Verizon & AT&T, enough for maybe text but not very consistent," while other sites have no signal at all.
Weather considerations: The area can experience significant rain, affecting campsite conditions. One Paragon camper warned sites "can be very muddy" after precipitation, while another noted the potential for limited site availability: "There are only 7 sites so and no reservations so you may end up out of luck."
Tips for camping with families
River wading opportunities: Shallow water areas provide safe play spaces for children. At The Ole Cornfield, a grandmother shared, "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."
Educational ranger programs: Contact local ranger stations before arrival to learn about scheduled activities. A Paragon visitor suggested to "call or visit the ranger office before entering the forest to get the latest recommendations for good trails and where to see wildlife!"
Kid-friendly hiking trails: Pine Knob Loop Campground offers trails manageable for younger hikers. As one family noted, "Found a secluded spot up the trail. Lots of fun and a good hike - easy enough for an 8 year old!"
Tips from RVers
Level sites with adequate facilities: The Ole Cornfield provides well-maintained RV spots. A camper noted, "The RV sites are new, drive through and flat, with electric, and water. There's something cool to be facing the cornfield and being in unique open space."
Plan for limited hookup options: Many sites around Olive Hill offer only partial hookups. One RVer at The Ole Cornfield mentioned, "It has 10 RV sites and riverside tent sites. The sites are level and pull through with 50 amp service. There is city water available and a dump station."
Book early for holiday weekends: Regional campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. An RVer suggested, "We just spent a relaxing long weekend at this campground. Sites are level with electric and water at each one," noting they were able to secure a spot by planning ahead.
