Top Tent Camping near Salt Lick, KY

Are you planning a tent camping trip to Salt Lick? We've got you covered. The Dyrt helps you find campsites near Salt Lick with tent camping. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Salt Lick, KY (12)

    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Campground

    1. Red River Gorge Campground

    22 Reviews
    124 Photos
    373 Saves

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Retreats (Miguel's Pizza)

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

    19 Reviews
    36 Photos
    83 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Ole Cornfield

    3. The Ole Cornfield

    8 Reviews
    32 Photos
    52 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    4. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    43 Photos
    74 Saves

    Paragon is a primitive camping area with 7 designated campsites, some with lantern posts and fire rings. Alert: August 21, 2019 - The U.S. Forest Service opened a section of Paragon Road on Friday, August 16, 2019. The gate closest to Highway 519 was opened and motor vehicles will be able to drive to the first two loops commonly used for camping, swimming, and fishing. The new gate has been installed to allow vehicle access into the area while road work and repairs continue. The new gate will also allow the two camping loops to remain open when Cave Run Lake is 1.5 to 2 feet above summer pool and inundating the lowest portions of Paragon Road, which has occurred many times in the last decade and resulted in closure of the entire road and camping area. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your trip to this area. Learn more... The campground is located on the Cumberland Ranger District, Daniel Boone National Forest. Cave Run Lake is widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities. The lake is also the home of Kentucky's state record muskie.This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. Nearby facilities: Poppin Rock Boat Ramp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures
    Camper-submitted photo from Red River Gorge Adventures

    5. Red River Gorge Adventures

    8 Reviews
    43 Photos
    93 Saves

    The campground is on 10 acres of tree lined frontage on the Red River. There is a mix of trees/shade and open fields. It is a primitive campground, meaning that there are no power hook-ups or running water. There is an excellent canoe/kayak take-out. It's location in the heart of the Gorge makes it the perfect place for riverside camping and provides access to hiking trails.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $8 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Daniel Boone National Forest White Sulphur Horse Camp
    • No image available

      7. White Sulphur Horse Only Camp

      Be the first to review!

      White Sulphur Horse Camp, located near Cave Run Lake on the Cumberland Ranger District, is developed as a primitive campground for horseback riders. The camp provides access to over 50 miles of multiple-use trails winding along forested hills and limestone ridges. Ideal for individual riders as well as organized groups, the facilities at the horse camp bring riders into the heart of the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Pioneer Weapons Wildlife Management Area, and the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail. View information about Cave Run Lake Nonmotorized Trails for horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking around Cave Run Lake. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your visit to this campground. Learn more... Cave Run Lake area map The parking area can accommodate up to 30 vehicles with a trailer, up to 50 feet long. Picket lines and a watering trough are available for horses. The campground has no electricity.

      • Tents
      • No image available
        • No image available

          9. Free Spirit Homestead

          Be the first to review!
          2 Saves

          Hey y'all,

          Here at the Free Spirit Homestead we encourage visitors to fully immerse themselves into the homestead lifestyle. However, if you are just looking for a beautiful spot to camp for a night and just relax, we're that spot too.

          Hang by the firepit, hike trails through our beautiful woods, & don't forget to pet Gemma the goat!

          We have a couple primitive sites around a large communal firepit in our lower field, on on top of our "mountain ", which is about a 3/4 mile hike in the woods. It is beautiful! We have backpacking/hammock sites throughout 44acres of woods.

          We also have optional foraging hikes/plant medicine hikes we put on for anyone interested in learning! Let us know.

          • Pets
          • Fires
          • Phone Service
          • Reservable
          • Tents
          • Trash

          $15 / night

          • No image available
          Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

          Recent Tent Reviews In Salt Lick

          603 Reviews of 12 Salt Lick Campgrounds


          • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Paragon Dispersed Camping Area
            Oct. 19, 2024

            Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

            Beautiful location just off a paved road

            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!

          • Patti W.
            Camper-submitted photo from Callie’s Lake and Campground
            Sep. 26, 2024

            Callie’s Lake and Campground

            NOT happy,

            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

          • BThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Clear Creek Rec Area
            Sep. 13, 2024

            Clear Creek Rec Area

            Beautiful creek

            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.

          • Chaz M.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
            Sep. 12, 2024

            Natural Bridge Campground

            A lot to do

            There is so much to do nearby. Awesome stores and adventures. Campground has WiFi, fishing for kids, and is in a great location.

          • EThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Springs Campground
            Jul. 25, 2024

            Sandy Springs Campground

            Fun for all

            The 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!

          • T
            Camper-submitted photo from Lago Linda Hideaway
            Jul. 18, 2024

            Lago Linda Hideaway

            The dyrt

            One key feature of The Dyrt is its extensive campground database, which includes over 44,000 campgrounds nationwide. This allows users to easily search for and discover new camping destinations based on location, amenities, and user ratings. The app also offers offline maps and filters for specific preferences such as pet-friendly sites, RV accessibility, and more.

          • Corey K.
            Camper-submitted photo from Carter Caves State Resort Park
            Jul. 17, 2024

            Carter Caves State Resort Park

            State Park with Abundance of Nature

            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.

          • Angie A.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Foot Campground
            Jul. 8, 2024

            Turkey Foot Campground

            Excellent find in the woods!

            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.

          • Jennifer M.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
            Jul. 7, 2024

            Zilpo Campground

            Beautiful campground

            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.

          • David B.
            Camper-submitted photo from Grayson Lake State Park
            Jun. 30, 2024

            Grayson Lake State Park

            Very beautiful

            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.

          • Katrin M.
            Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
            Jun. 23, 2024

            Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

            Very nice campground

            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.

          • Ashlee G.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Woodstock Campground
            Jun. 8, 2024

            Woodstock Campground

            Our fave primitive camp in the RRG!

            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!

          • p
            Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Camping and Fishing
            May. 31, 2024

            Wildcat Camping and Fishing

            Very Nice Place

            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.

          • B
            Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground
            May. 27, 2024

            Middle Fork Campground

            Well Maintained Campground in RRG

            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.

          • RThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Natural Bridge Campground
            May. 25, 2024

            Natural Bridge Campground

            Okay

            Sites 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.

          • David A.
            Camper-submitted photo from Zilpo Campground
            May. 9, 2024

            Zilpo Campground

            Wonderfully Quite Place

            Stay 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!

          • Lucy P.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest
            May. 6, 2024

            Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

            Excellent little campground!

            One of the best forest service campgrounds I’ve stayed in. Beautiful and well maintained, lots of great hiking trails leaving directly from campground.

            A lot of sites are too slanted for a van or RV, but amazing for tent camping. If you’re staying in a vehicle I recommend doing first come first serve or extensive research. The more slanted sites also are much more secluded - we couldn’t even see our neighbors most of the time. Unfortunately sound echoes so you can hear everything.

            No hookups and super shady so solar is difficult. Was on Verizon extended network and had hotspot service from at and t and t mobile.

          • Eleanor the Airstream R.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Horse Park Campground
            Apr. 7, 2024

            Kentucky Horse Park Campground

            Quiet offseason stay

            Beautiful campground surrounded by horse country. Slightly rolling hills in campground but mostly level sites. We chose site 13 because it looked level in pics and had some open green space behind for our dog (neighboring site did as well). Able to set up with no boards or leveling blocks.

            Lots of trees in campground (leaves hadn’t started back yet) and medium size lots with water and electric only. Two dump stations available. 2 laundromats, a pool (closed when we were here), and large camp store.

          • p
            Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Camping and Fishing
            Apr. 2, 2024

            Wildcat Camping and Fishing

            Added Campsite to the app

            Haven't been there yet.Campground wasn't in any of the apps. Just called and made reservations for 3 months. Very nice on the phone. No problem for us with 36' fifth wheel and a dog.

          • M
            Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Springs Campground
            Apr. 1, 2024

            Sandy Springs Campground

            Quiet little campground

            The view!!!!!! Backing your camper up to the view of the Ohio River is so calming. Watching the barges going up and down is never boring. The owners go out of their way to make sure that you are ok or if you need anything.

          • Jeremy K.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground
            Mar. 24, 2024

            Middle Fork Campground

            Nice little campground

            We stayed a weekend at Middle Fork. Nice campground. Spaces are pretty tight. Has a creek stocked with trout. Bathhouse was clean. Staff was sit friendly. Make sure bring extra power cord and water hose. The hookups are not located on the correct side at each site. All and all it is a nice place. Good place for kids to ride bikes. Most sites are pretty level.

          • DThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Bruin Creek
            Mar. 19, 2024

            Bruin Creek

            Tranquil Off Season

            This place is great. Came in off season in March, not expecting much. Many camps closed for season. It was beautiful, quiet, with running water and bbq pit at sites and hot showers in the bathroom. Perfect for a short stop over on x-country trip or offseason enclosed camping.



          Guide to Salt Lick

          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.

          What to do:

          • Kayaking and Fishing: Many campers enjoy the peaceful waters of Cave Run Lake. One visitor at Zilpo Campground mentioned, "This campground is perfect for kayaking and fishing. Some of the campsites have private beaches."
          • Hiking: Explore the trails around Koomer Ridge Campground. A reviewer said, "There are several trails that start from the campground. The area is absolutely stunning."
          • Caving and Nature Walks: At Carter Caves State Resort Park, you can hike and explore various caves. One camper noted, "There are many hiking options, some that explore the various caves around the grounds."

          What campers like:

          • Privacy and Space: Campers at Zilpo Campground appreciate the privacy of the sites. A reviewer shared, "Campsites have more privacy and are more primitive."
          • Clean Facilities: Many visitors enjoy the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One camper at Koomer Ridge Campground said, "The campground is very well maintained."
          • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Carter Caves State Resort Park remarked, "The staff are all very friendly."

          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 potential noise from nearby roads. A reviewer at Middle Fork Campground mentioned, "Biggest downside is the noise from the big trucks going up and down the hill on the highway."
          • Site Sizes Vary: Some sites can be tight, especially at Whittleton Campground. One camper said, "Very tight spots."

          Tips for camping with families:

          • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Twin Knobs Recreation Area. A visitor mentioned, "Great campground! Large sites!"
          • Activities for Kids: Many campgrounds have playgrounds or water activities. A camper at Carter Caves State Resort Park noted, "There is a nice playground and a camp store for any items you have forgotten."
          • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds have quiet hours. A reviewer at Grayson Lake State Park said, "The positive is the location is only a few minutes from the boat ramp for the most popular kayaking spot."

          Tips from RVers:

          • Check Site Levels: Many RVers recommend checking the level of the sites. A visitor at Koomer Ridge Campground mentioned, "A lot of sites are too slanted for a van or RV."
          • Bring Extra Cords: Some campgrounds have hookups far from the sites. A camper at Grayson Lake State Park advised, "Be prepared to bring extra electric cord and hose."
          • Look for Amenities: Campgrounds like Lago Linda Hideaway offer modern cabins and facilities. A reviewer said, "Very nice cabin, awesome view. Modern updated cabin."

          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

          • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Salt Lick, KY?

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Salt Lick, KY is Red River Gorge Campground with a 4.9-star rating from 22 reviews.

          • What is the best site to find tent camping near Salt Lick, KY?

            TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Salt Lick, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.