Tent camping near Park City, Kentucky offers varied experiences within Mammoth Cave National Park's backcountry regions. Primitive campsites throughout the area provide access to both the Green River and Nolin River systems. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 85-95°F with high humidity levels, making spring and fall more comfortable for camping activities.
What to do
Kayaking on Green River: At Houchin Ferry Campground, many visitors launch kayak trips directly from the campground. "Set up camp at Houchins Ferry and kayaked from Green River Ferry back to the campsite... Great spot for a day kayaking, about 11 miles from Green River Ferry," reports David, who found the paddle route manageable for most skill levels.
Hiking nearby trails: Access hiking paths on the opposite side of the river from Houchin Ferry. "I recently reviewed a map of the area and realized I mistakenly thought there were no trails in the Houchens Ferry area. Unfortunately they are on the far side of the river. There are two trailsheads, First Creek Trail and McCoy Hollow Trail near Temple Hill," notes Shelly S., who recommends getting maps from the visitor center.
Night sky viewing: The remote location creates opportunities for stargazing and wildlife viewing after dark. One camper at Narrows Boat Ramp appreciates the "scenic overlooks to the lake" along the nature trail, which makes for good evening strolls and stargazing spots.
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: The primitive sites provide a quieter alternative to main park campgrounds. "These sites were my favorite in the park! The drive to the campground was a bit out of the way, but scenic. The sites are near a river and there is an option of taking the ferry to the campground," writes Sara S. about her visit to Houchin Ferry.
Spacious camping areas: Sites offer room to spread out, especially appreciated by families. "There is a large pavillion with several more picnic tables for bigger gatherings... We tent camped here in July and saw hundreds of lightning bugs! It was magical, that really made the experience so much better for us!" shares Shea M. about the open areas at Mountain Top Retreat.
Wildlife viewing: The riverside location provides opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. Tucker B. notes that Houchin Ferry Campground is "right on the river for fishing and/or kayaking and a lot more private than the other campgrounds in the park if that's what you're looking for!"
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites have minimal amenities. "Porta pots, no showerhouse or sinks. One plus there are 4 pots and they are the larger style," explains Shelly S. about Down Yonder Campground, reflecting similar conditions at most primitive sites in the region.
Reservation changes: Several campgrounds have shifted from first-come to reservation-only. "It usually is first come first serve, but during Covid is reservation only. It fills up fast on the weekends," David warns about weekend availability at Houchin Ferry.
Distance from attractions: Some campsites require additional driving to reach Mammoth Cave tours. "I arrived to find the campground pretty much empty, but a lot further from the main area of the park than I thought... Ended up transferring over to another campground closer to the main park entrance," explains Tucker B., who found the 20-minute drive to cave tours longer than expected.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose larger sites for families needing extra room. "Sites 1-6 were pretty close together. I would have picked site 8 if I had to go again. Lost of space to run around with the kids. Pretty view of the river," recommends Micah N. about River Floodplain Campsites.
Nature activities: Plan evening activities around natural phenomena. "We tent camped here in July and saw hundreds of lightning bugs! It was magical, that really made the experience so much better for us!" shares Shea M., highlighting experiences that captivate children.
Trail options: Select appropriate hiking options for children. "The nature trail is a mile loop and has several benches along its route as well as scenic overlooks to the lake," notes Shelly S. about family-friendly trails at Narrows Boat Ramp.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most primitive sites cannot accommodate larger RVs. "These sites are listed as 'Tent Only' but I got my Dodge van in no problem. In my 3 days here I saw many tents, a small pop up camper, and 2 vans. Anything larger would be a problem I think," explains Overland 1 about Houchin Ferry's limitations.
Signal considerations: Cell coverage varies widely throughout the region. "Not much cell signal here, maybe 1 bar on Visible (Verizon). Decent signal on Starlink mini at site 1," reports Overland 1, suggesting satellite options for those needing connectivity.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges. "Road in is paved and not bad, but has a few hills and is narrow," notes Overland 1, indicating smaller rigs will navigate more easily than larger ones.
