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Daniel Boone National Forest surrounds Pine Ridge, Kentucky, offering varied camping opportunities within the Red River Gorge area. Koomer Ridge Campground serves as a central established campground with tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings in wooded sites. Other options include Natural Bridge State Resort Park campgrounds and private facilities like Red River Gorge Campground and Lago Linda Hideaway. The region includes tent-only areas, RV-compatible sites, and cabin rentals, particularly along the gorge rim and near water features. Camping areas range from primitive forest sites to developed campgrounds with restrooms and shower facilities.
Road conditions in the region can become challenging after rain, particularly on forest service roads leading to more remote camping areas. "Sites are well spaced and have major trees. The majority of campers were in tents, but there are a few sites that would work well for RVs," noted one visitor about Koomer Ridge. Most campgrounds operate seasonally, with peak season running April through October. Water access points may close during winter months, and some primitive camping areas require permits obtained from ranger stations. Campers should note that cell service is limited throughout much of the forest, though some reviewers mention getting reception at Koomer Ridge Campground.
Campers consistently highlight the proximity to hiking trails as a key advantage of staying in the area. Several campgrounds feature direct trail access from the sites, allowing visitors to explore natural arches and scenic overlooks without driving. The Red River Gorge area receives particular praise for its sandstone formations and climbing opportunities. According to reviews, Koomer Ridge provides spacious sites with adequate privacy compared to more crowded state park campgrounds. During peak seasons, especially fall when foliage colors peak, campgrounds fill quickly, particularly on weekends. Most developed campgrounds provide basic amenities like drinking water and toilets, while primitive sites require campers to pack in all supplies and pack out waste.
"Our site was down a path about 60 steps from our parking space. The tent site area was rocky. We always use small rug runner next to our air mattress in our tent, which was a must for this site."
"We've some spent time now in Kentucky and Red River Gorge area is one of favorites in this state. The campground is good pretty simple."
from $27 - $45 / night
Check Availability"I would rank the Red River Gorge area as the most beautiful place in the Kentucky. Any time I get the chance to head out this way, I do."
"Pros: clean bath house, convenient to SUP Kentucky/Gorge underground, level sites (smaller though) Cons: traffic noise, no cell service (which is a pro for some)"
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Located off I-64 in eastern Kentucky, RRG and Natural Bridge offer a wide variety of activities including hiking, camping, backcountry camping, kayak and canoe rentals, and the area has various local"
"Close to the Natural Bridge trail and multiple SUP Kentucky sites."
from $20 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Getting away from the busy life and into backcountry is like stepping into God's country. Don't have to worry about nothing and every day is a new adventure."
"The Tarr Ridge parking area is located on highway 77 on Tarr ridge rd in the red river gorge."
from $10 / night
"For a few bucks per carload, Miguel’s camping spot is contains of a few open field areas situated between the Climbing Gear Shop and the famous pizza spot."
"There is only a community fire pit - you can't have fires next to your tent. Here are some of the cool things at this campground.
Great breakfast, lunch, and dinner at their on-site restaurant."
from $14 / night
Check Availability"This big campground is a hidden gem near Red River Gorge. The road getting to the campsite is mostly one lane so is you are in an RV, go slow."
"The trail around the lake was very nice, short but hilly so a good morning walk. It rained the first evening which led to some pretty little waterfalls the next day."
from $12 - $999 / night
Check Availability"There are many campsites of multiple types available, but there are several primitive sites that still feel secluded and surrounded by trees."
"This was a nice campground near the red river gorge. My friends and I stayed at a primitive campsite # 10."
from $10 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Nice shaded creek on the outskirts of the campground. Running water, RR, a grill, & Fire ring. All perks. 🔥"
"You cannot bring in firewood from outside of Natural Bridge State Park/Red River Gorge, so we purchased some with our reservation. They loaded up a wheel barrow for us and we took it to our site."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Having recently moved to Kentucky from California was so happy to get to camp in another season besides summer."
"E-12 was close enough to the bathrooms that it wasn’t a bad walk but we didn’t have to smell anything. Water pump was across from the campsite. Plenty of space for four tents. Sturdy pic-nic table."
from $31 - $105 / night
Check Availability"With trails close by to explore!"
"But they do have a trash bin and portable-potty’s scattered around and they sell firewood on site. Oh and the grass is always maintained."
from $8 - $20 / night
Check Availability
GuideThis is somewhat of a RV parking lot with level gravel sites with electric, sewer, and water. Some lots have trees. Ours did not. Park has pool, clean bathrooms and showers, laundry. People are friendly. The shop has multiple convenience items. They offer propane and have a kerosene tank too. It’s about 30 mins to Lexington. We have a 35’ travel trailer
ScoutI’m glad we visited this park but I feel like calling it a “resort park” is pushing it. We visited Silver Springs State Park in Florida, and Cloudland Canyon State Park in Georgia and their amenities were much better.
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ScoutOur site was down a path about 60 steps from our parking space. The tent site area was rocky. We always use small rug runner next to our air mattress in our tent, which was a must for this site. It rained before we arrived, so we saw where water would pool near the front of the tent pad (this was two steps up from the rest of the campsite) so we set up our ten near the back. Nice big picnic table and fire pit.
Very private site with huge trees. Being August and down in a valley meant very little wind at the site so it was quite muggy as expected. Pit toilets nearby were fine. Wish there would have been a hook for our light at night. Full bathrooms were in the main loop of the campground. They were fine, not the worst we've experienced, but not the best either.
Tons of great hiking nearby (within 20 minutes or so). There was also a nice trail just off the campground near our site.
TravelerWe love Twin Knobs! We have camped there numerous times - in the Sping, Summer, and Fall. Electric and non electric sites. The campground staff is always a pleasure to interact with, and so kind! Always clean. Most sites are within walking distance to the lake. My only suggestion is I wish they had some playgrounds for small kids.
TravelerWe were greeted by the owner upon arrival. There are more adventures for kids at this 90 acre campground than I can list.
Scouttrails are a complete mess, a lot were impassable and very dangerous not recommended for horses, some have not had any maintenance done in years, even the main trail out of camp a couple miles was impassable... very poor :(
TravelerThe Edge Cave Run's Glamping Getaway is a MUST experience on your bucket list!
Beautiful scenery right on the Licking River!
Modern amenities, wi-fi, close to local attractions, comfortable beds. Perfect family getaway!
ScoutIn live locally and they keep it carry nice and always a great spot for family and kids
TravelerGoldenrod Gap was a beautiful location to unwind for a weekend within reach of Red River Gorge. We stayed at a primitive campsite located next to the convenient showerhouse. Had anyone been using the nearby RV camping spot, we might have been a little too close to neighbors, but our stay was quiet, fun, and filled with cool wildlife sightings on the guest-only trails. Access to the campground was easy, the facilities were clean and fully functional. The hiking trails were varied in difficulty and scenery. Our favorite was Mushroom Loop Trail, which gave us a wide path up to the highest ridgeline on the property that is blooming with colorful mushrooms. But I'd like to give a shout out also to the Frog Trail that lazily followed a small stream flowing through a serene grove. Many great memories were made here, and I'm sure we will return to try out the other campsites on offer!
Daniel Boone National Forest near Pine Ridge, Kentucky offers diverse camping options that serve as bases for regional adventures. Beyond the Red River Gorge area, camping destinations range from lakeside sites to secluded woodland retreats with varying levels of amenities. Forest service roads lead to dispersed camping locations, while established campgrounds provide structured sites with specific facilities throughout the surrounding region.
Hiking trails with direct campground access: At Koomer Ridge Campground, multiple trails leave directly from the campground into Red River Gorge. "The camp host is amiable and helpful. We had a group of 15 people who had a wonderful time. There is a great trail right off the parking lot and you're close to a great many other trails and activities," notes Janice C.
Mountain biking excursions: The forest trails around Koomer Ridge Campground accommodate mountain biking enthusiasts. "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," shares Erin H.
Fishing opportunities: Callie's Lake and Campground maintains a small lake for fishing. "They have a general store stocked with necessities you may have forgotten. The store also sales live bait to fish in the lake with," explains Josh N. Note that fishing requires a $5 fee for adults and is catch-and-release only.
Rock climbing access: Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza) serves as a hub for the climbing community. "Great food and great community make this a fun campground to stay at. Definitely worth a visit if youre a climber looking for a partner or maybe just some project beta!" recommends Alan B.
Level, well-drained campsites: Koomer Ridge Campground receives praise for site quality. "The sites are wooded, level and drain well. The prices are reasonable and the shower house is clean," notes Janice C., while Will K. adds that "This was a nice, quiet and primitive campground. The sites were nice and spread out."
Creekside camping options: Several campsites near Pine Ridge feature water access. At Whittleton Campground, "Small creek runs behind camper and tent sites," mentions Betsy H. This feature provides both scenery and recreation options during warm months.
Privacy between sites: Lago Linda Hideaway offers spacious sites with adequate separation. "The individual sites looked nice, some were a little close clustered, others had nice space between them," notes Linette G. Sarah H. adds, "Spots were very roomy (I stayed in Piney Oaks #9)."
Food options near camping areas: The region provides multiple dining choices within short driving distance. "Miguel's is a great place to camp if you are climbing in the Red River Gorge. It offers so many things such as a basketball court, quite heated areas, covered cooking, bathrooms, etc.," explains Gentry G.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds operate from spring through fall with limited winter availability. The peak season runs April through October, though some facilities remain accessible year-round with reduced services.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. At Middle Fork Campground, Gary P. notes "No cell nor wifi. But all in all a nice park with tons of trails and some awesome sights."
Permit requirements for backcountry camping: Dispersed camping outside established campgrounds requires permits. Wayne H. explains, "Pick up your parking pass at the Shell gas station at 12187 Campton rd, Stanton, KY. A three days pass is $5."
Road conditions after rainfall: Forest roads can become challenging after precipitation. Access to remote campsites may require appropriate vehicles with adequate clearance during wet conditions.
Lakeside camping for children: Red River Gorge Campground offers water access that appeals to families. "Camp amongst the tree line and branch out into the cool clear water on a hot summer's day! Taking a leap off the jumping rock should not be missed!!" recommends Jess P.
Campgrounds with playground access: Some established sites include play facilities. Mary B. notes about Middle Fork Campground, "The Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge area is beautiful with great hiking! 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."
Family-friendly hiking options: Trails with varied difficulty levels accommodate all ages. Jeffrey A. notes about Koomer Ridge, "Red River Gorge is an extraordinary and beautiful place to explore, and Koomer Ridge is an excellent basecamp from which to do so!"
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds maintain strict quiet hours while others permit more activity. Josh J. notes about a campsite near Pine Ridge, "It is super family friendly, they have an 11pm quiet time and strict alcohol policy."
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all campgrounds accommodate big rigs. Chris C. reports from Middle Fork Campground, "Beautiful area. Campsites are tight! Had trouble backing in our 32' bumper pull."
Hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary by campground. At Natural Bridge Campground, Marissa G. shares "Our site had 30 amp hook ups and the water pressure was about 40 psi."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some sites. At Callie's Lake, one visitor noted difficulties, observing "arrived on given day and could not level our RV on a very unlevel lot."
Seasonal access considerations: RV camping is more limited during winter months when some water hookups may be disconnected to prevent freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Pine Ridge, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Pine Ridge, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 87 campgrounds and RV parks near Pine Ridge, KY and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Pine Ridge, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pine Ridge, KY is Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest with a 4.7-star rating from 49 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pine Ridge, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Pine Ridge, KY.
What parks are near Pine Ridge, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 parks near Pine Ridge, KY that allow camping, notably Daniel Boone National Forest and Buckhorn Lake.
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