Salt Lick is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. 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 Salt Lick, KY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
Zilpo, a large, fun-filled campground on Cave Run Lake, is a prime destination for families. The scenic campground offers a cabin rental, tent camping, RV sites with electric hookups and a selection of lakefront sites. Views of the lake are enjoyed by those who relax on the sandy beach. Tater Knob, a fire tower open to the public, is nearby, offering outstanding views of the area.
Water skiing and swimming are wonderful ways to enjoy the lake. Muskie, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish attract avid anglers. Hikers are fans of the Zilpo Mountain Loop Trail that extends for 2.25 miles, connecting to a network of other trails around the lake. Nature programs are regularly scheduled during peak season and wildlife watching is rewarding.
Zilpo sits on a peninsula in the middle portion of Cave Run Lake at an elevation of 800 feet. The lake spans 8,270 acres with soft, sandy beaches. The campground is shaded by a stand of mixed hardwoods, and campsites have good privacy.
The nearest community is 12 miles away.
$85 / night
Nestled on the shores of Cave Run Lake, this camp is part of the larger Twin Knobs Recreation Area. There are more than 200 sites spread out over 10 loops under a dense forest of mixed conifer and deciduous trees. The recreation area includes two reservable group picnic areas. Group camping is also available.
Summer amphitheater programs and scheduled campground activities provide family fun and entertainment. The campground also has volleyball courts, basketball hoops and horseshoe pits. There is a boat ramp and beach. Popular lake activities include fishing, swimming, motor boating, windsurfing, sailing and water skiing. Scenic foot trails include the 2.5-mile Twin Knobs Shoreline Trail and the 1.5-mile Knob Overlook Trail.
The Daniel Boone National Forest embraces some of the most rugged terrain west of the Appalachian Mountains. The forest lies within the Cumberland Plateau, where steep forested slopes, sandstone cliffs and narrow ravines characterize the land in this region. Cave Run Lake is in the Cumberland District in the northernmost part of the forest. The lake is surrounded by the rolling hills of northeastern Kentucky.
The Morehead Office Visitor Center offers information about the Daniel Boone National Forest in addition to interpretive exhibits. A popular attraction within the Daniel Boone National Forest is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which features more than 100 natural sandstone arches.
$40 - $43 / night
This Campground offers dozens of shaded, wooded campsites. 54 suitable for tents and 19 suitable for a trailer. Camping and fires are prohibited in rock shelters.____
The Red River Gorge offers untouched beauty for hiking enthusiasts. From the campground access: Hidden Arch Trail, Koomer Ridge Trail, Cliff Trail and Silvermine Arch Trail.____
The Red River Gorge offers untouched beauty for hiking enthusiasts. From the campground access: Hidden Arch Trail, Koomer Ridge Trail, Cliff Trail and Silvermine Arch Trail.____
Koomer Ridge is located in the heart of the Red River Gorge on the Cumberland District in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Scenic sweeping views and amazing hiking trails.__
Red River Gorge, NADA Tunnel, Zilpo Campground, Tater Knob, Natural Bridge, Sky Bridge, Clifty Wilderness.
$17 - $33 / night
Hidden deep under the northeast forests of Kentucky, strange formations with names like Giant Turkey, Headache Rock, and The Cathedral mingle with cave corals, underground waterfalls and thousands of endangered bats. This is what awaits visitors to Carter Caves State Resort Park, approximately 90 miles east of Lexington. The park was only established, and the cave environments protected, in 1946. Prior to this, the land—and caves—have a long and storied history. It begins millions of years ago, when North America was in its development stage, with the land rising and falling, cracking and washing away. This began forming the caves as seen today. Fast-forward to the 1800s, and the caves served as a resource during the War of 1812. Today however, this 2000-acre park—both above and below ground—serves as a recreation destination for campers and adventurers. The resort at Carter Caves offers a variety of overnight options, including camping, cottages and a lodge. Campers will find a large campground with 89 RV sites with utilities, 30 primitive tent sites, eight equestrian sites, and two bunkhouses. Most RV sites are back-in, and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 60 feet; bunkhouses can accommodate up to six people. The campground features bathhouses with showers, water faucets, picnic shelters, horse stables, and a playground. The park’s cottages are fully equipped with linens, cookware, and most have wood-burning fireplaces; these can accommodate up to eight people. The Lewis Caveland Lodge offers 28 rooms with full amenities, balconies and patios. Dogs are permitted in designated areas, and must remain leashed. Campsite rates are $18–$55/night; cottages and lodge rooms are $75–$240/night. The main attraction at Carter Caves State Resort Park is … the caves! There are six named caves in the park for exploring. Some are open year-round, some are only open during the summer. The park offers guided walking tours in four of the caves. Tours range from 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, and require some stair-climbing and stooping. There are also two caves open for self-exploration. These are undeveloped, and require visitors to provide their own light source. For the adventurous, there are also two cave crawling expeditions. These tours are three hours long, and explore tight, undeveloped passages that require lots of crawling, stooping and duck-walking in muddy conditions. For visitors who would rather stay and play above ground, the park features 26 miles of hiking trails, guided horseback rides, putt-putt golf, rock climbing, and fishing and paddling on Smoky Valley Lake.
Red River Gorge Campground is known for its picturesque surroundings and range of outdoor activities. The campground is located in the heart of Red River Gorge, a geological wonderland with soaring sandstone cliffs, natural arches and deep gorges. The area is popular with hikers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous trails for all levels of experience, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking and fishing. Red River Gorge Campground provides a one-of-a-kind camping experience in Kentucky.
$10 / night
$14 / night
Natural Bridge is a 2,200 acre forested park and nature preserve with 22 miles of trails, a 60 acre lake, two campgrounds, lodging, and dining facilities. It is surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest and adjacent to the Red River Gorge National Geologic Area.
Local Family Owned & Operated est.2012 Riverside Campground RV & Tent Camping 50amp, 30amp, 110v NEW Bathhouse Kayak/Canoe Rental & Shuttle Service
We allow fishing, swimming, paddle boating, and kayaking; We have 4 clean shower houses and also a camp store where we serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner Friday-Sunday.
$10 - $40 / night
Zilpo, a large, fun-filled campground on Cave Run Lake, is a prime destination for families. The scenic campground offers a cabin rental, tent camping, RV sites with electric hookups and a selection of lakefront sites. Views of the lake are enjoyed by those who relax on the sandy beach. Tater Knob, a fire tower open to the public, is nearby, offering outstanding views of the area.
Water skiing and swimming are wonderful ways to enjoy the lake. Muskie, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish attract avid anglers. Hikers are fans of the Zilpo Mountain Loop Trail that extends for 2.25 miles, connecting to a network of other trails around the lake. Nature programs are regularly scheduled during peak season and wildlife watching is rewarding.
Zilpo sits on a peninsula in the middle portion of Cave Run Lake at an elevation of 800 feet. The lake spans 8,270 acres with soft, sandy beaches. The campground is shaded by a stand of mixed hardwoods, and campsites have good privacy.
The nearest community is 12 miles away.
$85 / night
Nestled on the shores of Cave Run Lake, this camp is part of the larger Twin Knobs Recreation Area. There are more than 200 sites spread out over 10 loops under a dense forest of mixed conifer and deciduous trees. The recreation area includes two reservable group picnic areas. Group camping is also available.
Summer amphitheater programs and scheduled campground activities provide family fun and entertainment. The campground also has volleyball courts, basketball hoops and horseshoe pits. There is a boat ramp and beach. Popular lake activities include fishing, swimming, motor boating, windsurfing, sailing and water skiing. Scenic foot trails include the 2.5-mile Twin Knobs Shoreline Trail and the 1.5-mile Knob Overlook Trail.
The Daniel Boone National Forest embraces some of the most rugged terrain west of the Appalachian Mountains. The forest lies within the Cumberland Plateau, where steep forested slopes, sandstone cliffs and narrow ravines characterize the land in this region. Cave Run Lake is in the Cumberland District in the northernmost part of the forest. The lake is surrounded by the rolling hills of northeastern Kentucky.
The Morehead Office Visitor Center offers information about the Daniel Boone National Forest in addition to interpretive exhibits. A popular attraction within the Daniel Boone National Forest is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which features more than 100 natural sandstone arches.
$40 - $43 / night
This Campground offers dozens of shaded, wooded campsites. 54 suitable for tents and 19 suitable for a trailer. Camping and fires are prohibited in rock shelters.____
The Red River Gorge offers untouched beauty for hiking enthusiasts. From the campground access: Hidden Arch Trail, Koomer Ridge Trail, Cliff Trail and Silvermine Arch Trail.____
The Red River Gorge offers untouched beauty for hiking enthusiasts. From the campground access: Hidden Arch Trail, Koomer Ridge Trail, Cliff Trail and Silvermine Arch Trail.____
Koomer Ridge is located in the heart of the Red River Gorge on the Cumberland District in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Scenic sweeping views and amazing hiking trails.__
Red River Gorge, NADA Tunnel, Zilpo Campground, Tater Knob, Natural Bridge, Sky Bridge, Clifty Wilderness.
$17 - $33 / night
Hidden deep under the northeast forests of Kentucky, strange formations with names like Giant Turkey, Headache Rock, and The Cathedral mingle with cave corals, underground waterfalls and thousands of endangered bats. This is what awaits visitors to Carter Caves State Resort Park, approximately 90 miles east of Lexington. The park was only established, and the cave environments protected, in 1946. Prior to this, the land—and caves—have a long and storied history. It begins millions of years ago, when North America was in its development stage, with the land rising and falling, cracking and washing away. This began forming the caves as seen today. Fast-forward to the 1800s, and the caves served as a resource during the War of 1812. Today however, this 2000-acre park—both above and below ground—serves as a recreation destination for campers and adventurers. The resort at Carter Caves offers a variety of overnight options, including camping, cottages and a lodge. Campers will find a large campground with 89 RV sites with utilities, 30 primitive tent sites, eight equestrian sites, and two bunkhouses. Most RV sites are back-in, and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 60 feet; bunkhouses can accommodate up to six people. The campground features bathhouses with showers, water faucets, picnic shelters, horse stables, and a playground. The park’s cottages are fully equipped with linens, cookware, and most have wood-burning fireplaces; these can accommodate up to eight people. The Lewis Caveland Lodge offers 28 rooms with full amenities, balconies and patios. Dogs are permitted in designated areas, and must remain leashed. Campsite rates are $18–$55/night; cottages and lodge rooms are $75–$240/night. The main attraction at Carter Caves State Resort Park is … the caves! There are six named caves in the park for exploring. Some are open year-round, some are only open during the summer. The park offers guided walking tours in four of the caves. Tours range from 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, and require some stair-climbing and stooping. There are also two caves open for self-exploration. These are undeveloped, and require visitors to provide their own light source. For the adventurous, there are also two cave crawling expeditions. These tours are three hours long, and explore tight, undeveloped passages that require lots of crawling, stooping and duck-walking in muddy conditions. For visitors who would rather stay and play above ground, the park features 26 miles of hiking trails, guided horseback rides, putt-putt golf, rock climbing, and fishing and paddling on Smoky Valley Lake.
Red River Gorge Campground is known for its picturesque surroundings and range of outdoor activities. The campground is located in the heart of Red River Gorge, a geological wonderland with soaring sandstone cliffs, natural arches and deep gorges. The area is popular with hikers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous trails for all levels of experience, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking and fishing. Red River Gorge Campground provides a one-of-a-kind camping experience in Kentucky.
$10 / night
Traveler
James, Lauren and their crew were the best! Everyone was so friendly and helpful. The camping is just so relaxing, right on the river, open space, beautiful land! We can't wait to visit again.
Ranger
Stayed here a week. Had the place pretty much to myself especially on the rainy days. Outstanding features for me were the 4 pull thrus, one of which I scored,. Water is available here and there but not at every site. One side of the campground abuts an asphalt plant which was quit noisy at times. The park is on the river at the bottom of a valley. The highway traffic comes down one side with engine brakes bellowing and the passing lane going back up is almost as loud with truck drivers using every gear to stay up to speed. I noticed the number of dump trucks near the park/asphalt plant on my way in. Near quitting time for the plant the highway many feet above you sounds like the scene in full metal jacket on the beach with the helicopters coming and going, the plant is on the same side of the river next to the bridge. I was very close.
Guide
This campground has some features that are nicer than what is found in many state campgrounds. There are some secluded sites back in the woods, so you don't feel like you are camping in a parking lot in a few places. NOTE that most of these secluded sites (along the back edge of the campground) are up a flight of stairs. You have to carry all your gear up a hill or stairs to set up. You will not be near your car, which can get annoying.
The bathrooms were average, not great but not gross. We were there on their Halloween weekend, with a fun site-decorating contest and trick or treat in the afternoon, which was mildly annoying for us because they closed the roads from 2 to 6 so we could not drive back to our site, and when we finally could, someone was in our parking pot for the next hour.
The lakes are quite tiny. The one at the campground is more like a large pond- fine for paddling around on a paddleboard for practice, but don't think you'll get in any meaningful kayaking or sight-seeing on this pond. The other lake is slightly bigger, but still not big enough for kayaking more than a couple hours at most.
The new campground is on the river on what used to be the golf course- I will write a separate review for that.
The lodge has some amenities (pool, hot tub, cafe, bar), but we ate in the restaurant and it was terrible. I do not recommend. Get some apps at the bar if you have to but keep your expectations low. We had pork nachos and the pork tasted old, everything was cold and it gave me a terrible stomachache.
Ranger
We came in on a Friday late afternoon and there were only a few camping sites available. We found a spot right on the lake.
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.
The view of the lake from our camp site was amazing. Very picture worthy!
The campsites are pretty close together providing less than optimal privacy. Some of the campers stayed up late but they kept the noise level down.
While there we saw one group hang a deer carcass in a tree. Good times!
Scout
The amenities are not worth the price. The bathrooms are not clean. We paid for a campsite that had water and electric but we had to share water with another site. Luckily there were a splitter available. The sites in the 30s look like they may be spacious but you are on top of one another.
The 5 star review on here is regarding the state park camping, not this site. Would not return.
Scout
Made reservations almost a month in advance, arrived on given day and could not level our RV on a very unlevel lot couldnt even get our steps to come out as they hit gravel. Tried to move the RV around for over an hour and finally went to the store to inform them of our trouble. We were told they had no other space for us, so we had no choice but to leave. This was NOT our choice, they did not deliver what they had promised, yet no refund, or even a partial refund was offered. 3 years being full time on the road, this was a first such experience, and their lack of concern made us not happy.
.UPDATE Callie and I have talked and our issues have been resolved. We visited Callies Lake& Campground, no overnight stay
Traveler
We stayed from Sunday until Tuesday and didn't want to leave! The campground offers something for everyone: playground equipment, basketball hoop and various balls, access to the river for fishing, and absolutely stunning views of the Ohio as well as the surrounding hills.
The campers were friendly. Nobody was loud and obnoxious. The owners Julie and Darcy are super nice and helpful.
We liked the campground so much we're returning in a few weeks!
Guide
Pros: Beautiful little creek. Well spaced sites. Low usage. Some sites are long. Nice hiking trails from campsite. Most sites are shaded.
Cons: Close to a moderately used road.
Pit toilets, picnic tables, gravel pads.
RangerThere is so much to do nearby. Awesome stores and adventures. Campground has WiFi, fishing for kids, and is in a great location.
Traveler
Perfect for a quick one night stay while traveling! Reasonable, nice site backed up to a babbling stream. Short walk to bathroom with shower! Short walk w/ my dog on the trails before heading back on the road!
Scout
Just stopped for one night late in the afternoon and was easy to get off the interstate. Very nice grounds, clean restrooms, and quiet
Ranger
Start off by saying the staff were super great!!!! Stayed in space #1 and all the upper spots are open, wish they had more trees around the spaces. Overall it was still a great experience staying at this location.
Guide
It didn’t get better for Trent camping within a two hour radius. I finally made it here and will be back.
TravelerThe campsite is totally geared towards family fun! The owners are so hospitable, that you feel like family! One of the most fun places we’ve ever stayed! My kids were busy nonstop with planned fun activities! And they had things for the adults as well and a lot of things for everyone to do together!
Scout
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Traveler
A very nice state park with an abundance of natural resources surrounding the campground. There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds. The caves themselves are quite the treat.
The staff are all very friendly and there are camping sites for tents or rigs. However, like many state parks that have not been updated, navigating into some of the spots with a large rig can be challenging. On the one hand, this is nice as there are mature trees throughout. On the other hand, they could increase the size / length of the existing campsites. There is a nice playground and a camp store for any items you have forgotten.
The lodge is available down the road (within the state park) for dinner if you are looking to mix up the trip. Not fine dining, but decent food. There is also a pool available at a discounted rate for campers - which our kids enjoyed. Note: there are no full hookup sites, which is not uncommon for KY State Parks.
Ranger
Found the perfect spot for our trailer and our friends car camping. Clean vault toilets. Each site has fire ring and picnic table. Pack in pack out even though some didn’t get the memo yet park service was there in the morning to clean. Limited to no cell service.
Scout
Quiet, less utilized campground on Cave Run Lake. Campsites have more privacy and are more primitive. There is a bathhouse, but it is not regularly maintained. This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing. Some of the campsites have private beaches.
Scout
This place is very beautiful first and foremost. You can fish, rent boats and kayaks. Also the hiking isn’t to bad! They even have tennis courts and a small water park.
Legend
We camped here over the weekend in a double campsite. It was very spacious and clean. The site had 2 picnic tables, 2 lantern poles, and and a fire pit. Everything was leveled, so the tent set up was really easy. The campground is very well maintained. Some sites have stairs in order to reach the tent pads. There is a bathhouse with flushing toilets and nice showers. They also have pit toilets, which I never used. There are several trails, that start from the campground. The area is absolutely stunning, but it was extremely hot, so we couldn't do too much hiking. But the plan is to return in fall.
ScoutLevel site. Staff cleans the bathhouse every hour.
Guide
We LOVE Woodstock! Such a beautiful, open, peaceful property and each site has its own handmade benches and firepit. Literally right off the road for Red River Gorge so you’re 10 minutes from creation falls, sky bridge, chimney top rock, etc. Also right down the road from Sky Station and The Brick for beers, ice cream and coffee. Also just 15 minutes from the amazing Muir Valley climbing area. Literally couldn’t ask for a better location for a weekend in RRG. Not to mention how peaceful it is, away from the hustle and bustle of the other camps in Slade.
Ronnie is the kindest host, very considerate and welcoming. He helped us when we pulled in to guide our big rig to the best spot (35 foot camper). He has tent sites and space for RVs but it is primitive camping so be prepared - no water or bathrooms available. Oh and cash only!
We can’t wait to be back. Thanks Ronnie!
Guide
We have been here for a little over a month now. Nice level gravel sites with grass around them. Full hookups 30/50A at each site. Wifi. Could accommodate at least 40+ foot 5th wheels. There is a paylake with small shelter areas, playground, horseshoe pit, game room, community gathering area, store with snacks, drinks, tackle and other items. There are restrooms, but no showers or laundry. Beautiful area. About 11 miles to Paintsville, which has all the stores you'd need. Some closer convenience stores. Johnny and Regina, the owners, couldn't be any nicer. Very good monthly rates. Can receive mail and packages.
Guide
We stayed here while some of our group did some rock climbing in the area. The camp staff was super helpful and offered to rearrange a few sites that were open so that our tents would fit better. It was during the week, so not all of the sites were full which gave him some flexibility. Some of the sites in the RV area are pretty small so do some checking when you select.
TravelerSites are okay. We had one with trees so got some shade. Staff is friendly. The restrooms didn’t get cleaned the entire 5 nights we were here. The floor was swept but the same dead fly on the sink was there all week too. There are only 2 men’s and two women’s shower/toilet rooms for the entire camp. During the week it was not an issue but the place got full on Friday night and having two toilets for each sec is not a good plan, especially if two men want to shower leaving no men’s facilities until they’re done. Probably would not return.
Traveler
Spent 4 nights, nice quiet camp grounds. Was in spot number 61, closest spot to the bathhouse. Not sure it would be the best spot in midsummer as it was also closest to the dumpster. That said it was recently graded and leveled. The primary issue I had was having a smaller camper with a lower sewer connection and the sewer connection was higher than the bottom of my unit.
TravelerStay 6 nights, very peaceful and quite place, this time of year! Campground empty, no one there. Beautiful sites, large, all fine gravel and paved pull offs, very nice! Bathrooms could use a update, easily Lot’s of bug in May, but huge amount of ticks 🕷️ Campground sets back off main road about 10 miles, so no traffic noise at all. Has boat lunch, beach, camp store, 2 dump stations, 7 loops host at most of them, very nice people. We had great time, will defiantly be back to stay again!
Camping near Salt Lick, Kentucky, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Salt Lick, Kentucky, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to check the specific amenities and features of each campground to find the best fit for your trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Salt Lick, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Salt Lick, KY offers a wide range of camping options, with 75 campgrounds and RV parks near Salt Lick, KY and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Salt Lick, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Salt Lick, KY is Zilpo Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 49 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Salt Lick, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Salt Lick, KY.
What parks are near Salt Lick, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 28 parks near Salt Lick, KY that allow camping, notably Daniel Boone National Forest and Grayson Lake.
