Tent campsites near Pine Ridge, Kentucky occupy a section of eastern Kentucky's Cumberland Plateau where elevations range from 800 to 1,200 feet. This region experiences humid summers with average highs around 85°F and mild winters with occasional snow. Forest canopy at most primitive sites creates significant shade, affecting morning sun exposure and extending dew evaporation times at tent sites.
What to do
Hiking to scenic vistas: At Red River Gorge Campground, access numerous hiking trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. "There are so many different places to hike. Be careful of cliffs and your surroundings. Nothing but natural beauty. You can rock climb, camp, hike, kayak, and best of all amazing views," notes Lindsay P.
Jumping rock activities: Red River Gorge Adventures offers easy access to local swimming spots. "This campground is only a two mile paddle to the infamous jump rock and swim hole. Also, you are just 10 minutes from Slade, where you will find Miguel's, (the best pizza you'll ever eat), gas stations, and cell signal," explains Josh J.
Backcountry exploration: For campers seeking more solitude, venture further from established areas. "Some of our favorite backpacking. Getting little busy unless you're out deeper in the back country," explains one camper at Red River Gorge Campground.
Water activities: The region offers multiple swimming and paddling opportunities. "If you wade out into the water about 15ft upstream of the boat launch, the river is relatively flat with a sandy bottom that is about 5' at normal water level. Excellent place for an afternoon swim or a rinse after a hot day of climbing," reports a visitor to Red River Adventures.
What campers like
Affordability: Free camping options exist throughout the Daniel Boone National Forest. "This drive in campground is 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. Most spots have boat in access!" explains Wayne H. about Paragon Dispersed Camping Area.
Wildlife viewing: The forest setting provides opportunities for bird watching and animal sightings. "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," reports a camper at Paragon.
Variety of camping settings: The area offers different camping environments based on preference. "You can drive the gorge and find spots to camp or visit one of their primitive campgrounds. Every time I've camped the Gorge I head to the water hole and jumping rock. There are plenty of other campers but just enough to give you some happy company," shares Jess P. from Red River Gorge Campground.
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy of certain campgrounds. "This is my all time favorite campground. (When I'm not looking for a lot of amenities). This campground is actually a veteran owned boating rental/shuttle service with an attached campground. It's very spacious, I've camped on holiday weekends and never had other campers within 100 ft of my site," notes a visitor to Red River Adventures.
What you should know
Trash management issues: Many dispersed camping areas have no waste facilities. "We simply love camping in the National Forest Service campgrounds, most often because they are isolated, beautiful, inexpensive and usually, very quiet. There is no potable water or electrical hookups. There are no trash cans or dumpsters in the area, so plan accordingly," advises Shari G. from Paragon.
Permit requirements: Some areas require camping permits. "Red river gorge as a whole is one of my favorite places. I personally prefer to camp off-site but you need a pass. Luckily it's only $5," explains Natasha T.
Off-grid preparation: Most dispersed sites have no services. "The National Forest has hiking, multi-use trails, and boating (there is a ramp nearby). 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," advises a camper at Paragon Dispersed Camping Area.
Variable site conditions: Site quality and availability fluctuate. "We rolled up on a Tuesday night in mid-July and found the campground about ¾ full but still plenty of space for our little trailer. With about a dozen or so sites, some along the lakeshore, others closeby, lots of options exist to be alone or with a group," reports one visitor to Paragon.
Tips for camping with families
Safety near water features: Always maintain supervision at water attractions. "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!!" suggests a visitor to Red River Gorge Adventures.
Moderate hikes for children: Choose appropriate trails for younger campers. "Princess Arch is at the Red River George in, KY. This is a primitive camping area. Princess Arch offers 105ft of elevation and is a quick 0.6 mi hike from the parking loop. There are bathrooms and trash bins at the parking loop," shares Wayne H.
Clean site selection: Inspect sites carefully before setting up. "We arrived right after a busy holiday weekend, and found our site (and those next to it) full of extra fire rings and heaps of trash. It's a good reminder to come prepared to pick up after yourself and others who aren't as thoughtful," warns a Paragon visitor.
Pack extra supplies: Bring necessary items for remote camping. "Primitive camping, so make sure you bring EVERYTHING you need for your stay," advises Wayne H. about Hanson's Point.
Tips from RVers
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. "There was slight cell service for Verizon & AT&T, enough for maybe text but not very consistent," notes a camper at White Sulphur Horse Camp.
Alternative accommodations: Consider various shelter options if tent camping isn't preferred. "We had such an amazing time at HomeGrown HideAways!! We stayed at the Yome, and it was perfect for our family of four. Instead of sleeping in it, which would have been perfectly comfortable, we actually used it as more of an extra shelter and we pitched out tents in the field in front of the Yome," shares Cassandra C. from HomeGrown HideAways.
Gate closure schedule: Some campgrounds restrict evening access. "They close the gates at night and don't open the gates till 8 am was the only drawback. The gate adds to the security of the campground I liked that they control coming and going at night times," explains Andrew C. about Red River Adventures.
Solar power options: For extended stays, consider portable power. "There is no potable water or electrical hookups, but with our solar panel we are always ready for primitive sites," explains a camper about their experience at tent campsites near Pine Ridge.
