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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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.
