With Kentucky’s 45 state parks, the greatest length of navigable waterways in the lower 48, and the world’s longest cave system, the state of bourbon and horse racing is a dream destination for outdoor lovers. A diverse state with numerous distinct natural regions, Kentucky has a plethora of camping locations. Whether you choose to visit a state park or national forest, you don’t have to look hard to find amazing locations for camping in Kentucky.  


For some of the most romantic and rugged landscapes in the state, visit the Red River Gorge in the south. With some of the most spectacular sites for camping in Kentucky, the gorge is a popular destination with visitors and locals alike. Climbers and hikers love the steep and rocky hillsides and cliffs which make the gorge famous. Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Red River Gorge offers endless overnight options. From dispersed camping in quiet stretches of forest to whimsical treehouse and full-access campgrounds, it’s easy to find the perfect spot to spend the night. Snag a site next to a lake with record-sized muskies and you won’t have to go far to get on the water first thing in the morning.   


If you love fishing, visiting Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is a must. With an abundance of lakes and rivers teeming with fish, it’s an angler’s dream. Enjoy lazy afternoons canoeing on the river or get an adrenaline rush on thrilling rapids. Nature lovers will love the plethora of wildlife and numerous hiking trails that wind through lush shaded forests. 


Keep exploring Kentucky’s shaded forests and rugged cliffs in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area in southeast Kentucky. Boaters will delight in the park’s large, languorous rivers and quick-flowing streams. Sheer bluffs and rocky gorges characterize the river valleys where water flows over rugged rapids and slows in quiet pools. 


There are a variety of options for camping in Kentucky near the Big South Fork, from primitive to developed campgrounds. If you’re travelling with horses, stay in the horse camp, complete with a tack store stocked with essentials. Keep in mind that most parks and campgrounds have a ban on bringing your own firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species. Check with the campground regulations before you come, as some allow collection of wood on the forest floor and other require you to purchase firewood from a ranger. Wherever you choose to stay, with the Dyrt you can be sure to find the best camping in Kentucky. 

Kentucky

The Best Camping in Kentucky | 100+ KY Campgrounds

Searching for the best camping near Rockcastle, KY? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Rockcastle

The Best Camping Near Rockcastle, Kentucky

Nine Pines is a luxury glamping campground set within 100 acres of pine trees. Currently offers 8 fully furnished Safari tents, each with full bathroom, including unique soaking and jacuzzi tub units. Each unit has air conditioning and heat, kitchenette and private back patio area. Take advantage of the covered pavilions with dining area outdoor kitchen with grill, blackstone and pizza oven, and relax on the overlook deck by the firepit table as you take in the view of the incredible valley of pines. We offer a hiking trail that wraps around the property.

The Campsite is set behind a private gated entrance for booked guests only.



Nine Pines Retreats

## Overview

Hurricane Creek Campground sits along the beautiful Lake Barkley, providing plenty of fresh air and recreation opportunities.   
  
While away the hours boating or hiking on shore. Anglers a plenty come in search of catfish and trophy bass. Wildlife spotting includes white-tailed deer and raccoons.

## Recreation

From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Hurricane Creek is the perfect setting for outdoor activities. 

## Facilities

The campground offers 51 sites with water and electric hookups. Six of these are walk-to sites. Hot showers, laundry facilities and a playground are available.

## Natural Features

The campground is nestled in the wooded, rolling hills of southwestern Kentucky. Lake Barkley covers 57,900 acres with 1,004 miles of shoreline and offers comfortable and refreshing water temperatures in summer months. 

## Nearby Attractions

The three-mile Lake Barkley State Park Trail is highly recommended. Plus the Lyon County Museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, makes for an enjoyable visit. Items in the museum highlight the area's immigration history dating back to 1865.

Hurricane Creek

You may camp almost anywhere in Land Between the Lakes. A Basic Camping Permit is required for each person 18 and over when camping in Basic Camping Facilities. A Dispersed Camping Permit is required when camping in non-designated areas of the recreation area. Both permits currently cost $50 for an annual permit and $10 for a 3-day permit and can be purchased online or any of our facilities. Please note that these permits do not apply when camping at Self-Service Campgrounds.

LBL FS154 - Dispersed 

Dryden Day Campground

## Overview

Situated along a peninsula between the lush shorelines of Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, Canal Campground offers modern camping and provides the ideal setting to enjoy nature at its best with family and friends.   
  
Visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the Barkley Dam and boats traveling through the canal from the comfort of their campsite. The campground faces Barkley Lake, and the shore of Kentucky Lake is a brisk one-mile walk across the canal.

## Recreation

From water sports to wildlife viewing to hiking and biking, Canal Campground is the perfect setting for outdoor activities. Eagle nests can be spotted throughout the grounds, and its not unlikely for visitors to encounter deer and other wildlife. A short hiking trail allows campers to enjoy the outdoor scenery at their leisure.   
  
Fishing is also a popular pastime, and during warm months bass and catfish are plentiful in both lakes. 

## Facilities

A designated swimming beach and a boat ramp help campers enjoy the lake. Picnic pavilions and a playground create a perfect setting for a party or family get-together. For group camping, several sites surrounding the pavilion can be reserved, and a fishing float nearby allows groups to go out on the lake together.   
  
  
  
Electric hook-ups, showers and flush restrooms create a comfortable camping experience.

## Natural Features

Lake Barkley, as part of a dam project at the Cumberland River, spans 134 miles along the Kentucky landscape, offering countless recreational activities to visitors. The canal connects Lake Barley with Kentucky Lake, forming one of the greatest freshwater recreational complexes in the country. 

## Nearby Attractions

Grand Rivers, a short drive from the campground, has several restaurants and two public marinas.

Canal

## Overview

Eureka Campground sits on Lake Barkley among wooded rolling hills and abundant wildlife. Fishing is a well-loved sport here; Kentucky's largest yellow bass was caught in these waters, and anglers flock with hopes of breaking the record.

## Recreation

Hikers and bikers are fans of the 2.5 mile Chestnut Oaks Trail that starts here. Other activities include boating, fishing and swimming.

## Facilities

The campground offers 26 sites with water and electric hookups. Additional amenities include hot showers, playground, boat ramp and swimming area. A picnic shelter is available for groups up to 100 guests. Electric hookups are available. 

## Natural Features

Lake Barkley, the western-most lake on the Cumberland River is connected by a canal to Kentucky Lake, forming one of the nation's greatest freshwater recreation complexes. Between the two lakes is Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, featuring miles of hiking trails and opportunities for off-road vehicle riding. 

## Nearby Attractions

Visit Fort Donelson National Battlefield, where the Union Army won their first battle of the Civil War. Another great destination in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, with more than 170,000 acres of public land to explore.

Eureka

This recreation area is part of Barkley Lake

Eddy Creek Marina Resort

Cravens Bay - LBL Lake Access

Energy Lake Campground

Cravens Bay Campground

Are you in need of a campground near Louisville, KY? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Louisville

The Best Camping Near Louisville, Kentucky

Lexington-Fayette is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Lexington-Fayette, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Lexington-Fayette

The Best Camping Near Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky

Searching for the best camping near Ironville, KY? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Ironville, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Ironville

The Best Camping Near Ironville, Kentucky

Looking for the best campgrounds near Meads, KY? Meads is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Meads

The Best Camping Near Meads, Kentucky

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Lexington, KY has a lot to offer. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Lexington campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Lexington, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Lexington

The Best Camping Near Lexington, Kentucky

Bowling Green, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Bowling Green campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Bowling Green camping trip.

Bowling Green

The Best Camping Near Bowling Green, Kentucky

Owensboro is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Owensboro is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Owensboro, reviewed by campers like you.

Owensboro

The Best Camping Near Owensboro, Kentucky

Looking for the best campgrounds near Hopkinsville, KY? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Hopkinsville, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Hopkinsville and user-submitted reviews.

Hopkinsville

The Best Camping Near Hopkinsville, Kentucky

Looking for the best campgrounds near Pleasure Ridge Park, KY? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Pleasure Ridge Park campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Pleasure Ridge Park, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Pleasure Ridge Park

The Best Camping Near Pleasure Ridge Park, Kentucky

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Paducah. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Paducah. Find the best campgrounds near Paducah, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Paducah

The Best Camping Near Paducah, Kentucky

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY has a lot to offer. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky

Daniel Boone National Forest, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Daniel Boone National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Daniel Boone National Forest

The Best Camping Near Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Kentucky camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky

Of the six parks in the Bluegrass State, Mammoth Cave is the only true national park. This area of southwestern Kentucky holds the best outdoor activities to be found in the state.

There are a large number of campsites across a few campgrounds, and Mammoth Cave Campground holds most of them. Both Mammoth Cave and Maple Springs Campgrounds are accessible for RVs. Backcountry camping is also available for interested hikers. The caves are, of course, the big draw, and no matter where you stay, you should take a cave tour. Since there are no nearby forests or BLM land, the best camping near Mammoth Cave National Park is fairly far away at the Green River Lake Wildlife Management Area. If you can’t get a spot in the park, staying in nearby Park City or Brownsville, KY, is the best choice.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Mammoth Cave National Park, KY has a lot to offer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Mammoth Cave National Park, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Mammoth Cave National Park, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Grayson Lake, KY has a lot to offer. Grayson Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Grayson Lake, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Grayson Lake

The Best Camping Near Grayson Lake, Kentucky

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Lake Cumberland. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Lake Cumberland

The Best Camping Near Lake Cumberland, Kentucky

Barkley Lake, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Barkley Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Barkley Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Barkley Lake

The Best Camping Near Barkley Lake, Kentucky

Join the fun near Buckhorn Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Kentucky camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Buckhorn Lake camping trip.

Buckhorn Lake

The Best Camping Near Buckhorn Lake, Kentucky

Join the fun near Dale Hollow Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Dale Hollow Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Dale Hollow Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Dale Hollow Lake

The Best Camping Near Dale Hollow Lake, Kentucky

Join the fun near Carr Creek Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Carr Creek Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Carr Creek Lake, KY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping in Rockcastle

Top Campgrounds in Rockcastle (127)

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