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Best Campgrounds near Stanton, KY

556 Reviews

Camping near Stanton, Kentucky centers around the scenic Red River Gorge area within Daniel Boone National Forest, providing a mix of established campgrounds and primitive sites. The region features several notable camping options including Koomer Ridge Campground, Middle Fork Campground at Natural Bridge State Resort Park, and Callie's Lake and Campground in Stanton proper. Red River Gorge, known for its unique geological formations and extensive trail systems, attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. According to visitors, the area represents "one of the most beautiful places in Kentucky," with opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and water recreation.

Most campgrounds in the Stanton area operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October. Zilpo Campground and Twin Knobs Recreation Area specifically list their season as April 25 to November 2. Summer weekends draw significant crowds, particularly at Natural Bridge State Park facilities. Cell service is limited or non-existent at many sites, with Middle Fork Campground noted for having no service. Parking passes for Red River Gorge primitive camping areas can be purchased at the Shell gas station in Stanton for $5 for three days. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with fall offering spectacular foliage and milder temperatures.

The camping options range from fully-developed RV parks to primitive backcountry sites. Callie's Lake and Campground features "RV park in the front, more primitive tent camping in the back" with a small lake for fishing and swimming. Campgrounds like Koomer Ridge offer basic amenities including drinking water and toilets but no showers or electric hookups. For those seeking more amenities, Whittleton Campground and Middle Fork Campground provide electric hookups and water, though campers report that some sites can be tight for larger RVs. The area is generally pet-friendly, with most campgrounds accommodating dogs, making it suitable for family camping trips with varied comfort requirements.

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Best Camping Sites Near Stanton, Kentucky (77)

    1. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    47 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    13 miles
    +1 (606) 663-8100

    $24 - $36 / night

    "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."

    "It is located just off Exit 11 on the Bert T Combs Parkway (the highway that runs through the area, which is a beautiful drive itself)."

    2. Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

    42 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 663-2214

    $20 - $30 / night

    "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)"

    3. Red River Gorge Campground

    22 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    8 miles

    $10 / night

    "Pick up your parking pass at the Shell gas station at 12187 Campton rd, Stanton, KY. A three days pass is $5."

    "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."

    4. Callie’s Lake and Campground

    18 Reviews
    Stanton, KY
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (859) 559-2554

    $10 - $40 / night

    "There is a pond/lake just big enough to fish and swim in, and there’s a rope swing the kids loved. This place has pretty good food made on site and had karaoke on Saturday nite with a good crowd."

    "There are many campsites of multiple types available, but there are several primitive sites that still feel secluded and surrounded by trees."

    5. Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)

    19 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    10 miles
    Website

    $14 / 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."

    6. Whittleton Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

    20 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 663-2214

    $20 - $30 / night

    "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."

    7. Natural Bridge Campground

    12 Reviews
    Slade, KY
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 663-9352

    $20 - $40 / night

    "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."

    8. Lago Linda Hideaway

    23 Reviews
    Beattyville, KY
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 464-2876

    $12 - $115 / night

    "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."

    9. Zilpo Campground

    49 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 768-2722

    $28 - $94 / night

    "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."

    10. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    42 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (606) 780-7818

    $31 - $128 / night

    "Stayed here for one night on a road trip to the Great Lakes. It’s basically in the middle of nowhere but nestled nicely on a lake with pretty water and nice scenery."

    "It is close to the water. We left our boats down on the bank. You have a "private" restroom and shower house. Occasionally you will get a hiker or someone coming through the trails that will use it."

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182 Photos of 77 Stanton Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Stanton, KY

556 Reviews of 77 Stanton Campgrounds

Guide to Stanton

Camping near Stanton, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Koomer Ridge Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "There are several trails that start from the campground," making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
  • Fishing and Kayaking: At Zilpo Campground, visitors enjoy kayaking and fishing on Cave Run Lake. A camper noted, "This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing."
  • Caving: Carter Caves State Resort Park offers unique cave exploration. One family shared, "Great facilities, hiking, caving, etc."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Kentucky Horse Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "Very nice grounds, clean restrooms, and quiet."
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. At Whispering Hills RV Park, one camper said, "Very friendly staff and helpful."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness at Twin Knobs Recreation Area. A review mentioned, "Good level spots. Quiet the first week of April."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Koomer Ridge Campground, do not have electric hookups. A camper noted, "No hookups and super shady so solar is difficult."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise at certain campgrounds. One camper at Natural Bridge State Resort Park mentioned, "Biggest downside is the noise from the big trucks going up and down the hill."
  • Seasonal Access: Many campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Carter Caves State Resort Park is open from April 1 to October 31.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. Whispering Hills RV Park has inflatables and a pool, making it great for kids. One parent said, "This park is great for kids."
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites, like Twin Knobs Recreation Area, where "campsites are close together" but still provide enough space for family activities.
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds have quiet hours. A visitor at Carter Caves State Resort Park mentioned, "There’s a quiet time reserved for after 11pm."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to verify if the campground has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Fort Boonesborough State Park noted, "They tried to centrally locate the water hookup but it was on the opposite of the camper from the electrical hookup."
  • Level Sites Matter: Look for campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. One RV traveler at Koomer Ridge Campground mentioned, "Everything was leveled, so the tent setup was really easy."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may require extra cords for hookups. A camper at Whispering Hills RV Park said, "Had to go buy an extension" for their sewer connection.

Camping near Stanton, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Stanton, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Stanton, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 77 campgrounds and RV parks near Stanton, KY and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Stanton, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Stanton, KY is Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest with a 4.6-star rating from 47 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Stanton, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Stanton, KY.

What parks are near Stanton, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 parks near Stanton, KY that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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