Camping options near Salt Lick, Kentucky range from developed state parks to primitive equestrian facilities throughout the Daniel Boone National Forest. The area sits at approximately 900 feet elevation in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with humid summers reaching the high 80s and mild winters. Campgrounds in this region connect to extensive trail systems that wind through limestone formations and hardwood forests characteristic of eastern Kentucky.
What to do
Cave exploration: 30-minute drive Twin Knobs Recreation Area provides access to nearby geological features. "The campground was in a wooded area and each campsite is separate by woods from the nearby sites... The campground is located on a lake," notes Stephen H., highlighting the blend of forest and water activities available from this central location.
Kayaking on Licking River: The Ole Cornfield campground offers kayak rentals and shuttle service for river adventures. As one visitor explains, "They have kayaks for rent at the campground or you can bring your own. They shuttle you up to the dam and it takes a couple of hours to get back down to their campground."
Horseback riding on bridle trails: Carter Caves State Resort Park Equestrian Campground provides access to dedicated horse trails. "The equestrian sites are full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites," notes Robert H., making this a convenient base for riders exploring the park's trail system.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many campers appreciate waterfront access at The Ole Cornfield. As Karen P. explains, "The grandkids love to play in the river, which is about 1 to 2 feet deep at this location. Great for wading and catching minnows, crawdads, and such."
Privacy between sites: Twin Knobs Recreation Area offers good separation between campsites. According to Kellie Dawn T., "The sites are kinda secluded from one another by tree and bush lines." This natural screening creates a more private camping experience compared to some other parks in the region.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention facility maintenance at area campgrounds. At Lago Linda Hideaway, "Bathrooms are clean," according to Lena L., while another visitor notes the campground is "meticulous with level spots" and features "extremely clean" bath houses.
What you should know
Electrical hookup limitations: Be prepared for potential electrical challenges. At Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, one camper warns about shared hookups: "Had to share box but only one 30 and one 50 amp. So if you both have a 30 amp the other has to get an adapter for the 50."
Weather considerations: The region experiences variable conditions that affect camping comfort. Twin Knobs campers note that fall camping can be pleasant but unpredictable: "The weather was wet and cold, but it couldn't take away from the experience."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp, visitors report "slight cell service for Verizon & AT&T, enough for maybe text but not very consistent."
Water access points: Not all campsites have direct water hookups. At Twin Knobs, Becky H. mentions "no water hookup" at their lake site, calling it "lovely" but "really inconvenient if you want water hookup."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Ashland Huntington West KOA offers dedicated play areas for children. One visitor appreciates the "fenced in soft play area for the toddlers" and mentions "great field for flying kites," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Budget-friendly options: The Ole Cornfield provides additional amenities included with site fees. "They provide fire rings, tables, and wood," notes Karen P., which can reduce the additional expenses families often incur when camping.
Swimming access: Several campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities. At Twin Knobs, Megan D. mentions that the park "includes a beach area with a little store for any last minute supplies you may have forgotten," making it convenient for families needing swimming access.
Tips from RVers
Sewer hookup availability: When staying at Carter Caves State Resort Park, check site details carefully. As Amanda S. advises, "Make sure to check in the details, which sites have sewer as they don't label it full hookups up front. The line of sites along the road into the campground all have sewer holes."
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in this region require leveling equipment. At Shawnee State Park Campground, Jarrod M. recommends specific sites: "Nice Campground, electric but no water at the sites. Lots of good tent or small camper spots, but be selective if you have a camper bigger than 25ft. I recommend site 82, 83, 85, or 78."
Extension cord needs: Multiple campers mention needing extended power cords or hoses. At Carter Caves, one visitor notes, "Some of the sites were around 50 ft from the electric hook up. Thankfully we were able to switch spots instead of renting an extension cord."
Accessible pull-through options: For easier parking with larger rigs, consider the equestrian campgrounds. Carter Caves Equestrian Campground offers "full hookups and able to accommodate large rigs with pull through sites," though be aware that "the roads are narrow and windy."
