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Best Campgrounds in Kentucky

2,649 Reviews

Kentucky's public lands feature a mix of established campgrounds and primitive sites spanning diverse landscapes from Daniel Boone National Forest to Mammoth Cave National Park. Campgrounds like Twin Knobs Recreation Area and Zilpo Campground provide accessible options for various camping styles including tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Kentucky Horse Park Campground near Lexington offers year-round camping, while several locations in Daniel Boone National Forest provide more secluded experiences with fewer amenities but greater immersion in natural surroundings.

Most Kentucky campgrounds operate seasonally with many state park facilities open from April through October. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly at popular locations near water features or during peak summer months. Access roads to developed campgrounds are generally well-maintained, while dispersed sites may require vehicles with higher clearance. A camper noted, "The road coming in is a little washed out but not too pitted. I'd recommend AWD/4WD and 8+ inches of clearance, especially if it has rained because it's pretty steep in sections." Weather considerations include humid summers and occasionally stormy spring conditions that may affect camping comfort and accessibility.

Waterfront camping represents a significant draw throughout Kentucky, with several campgrounds situated near lakes and rivers. Zilpo and Twin Knobs campgrounds near Cave Run Lake receive high ratings from visitors who appreciate the combination of water activities and forest surroundings. According to one visitor, "One picnic table and fire pit. Dispersed camping. We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening." Campgrounds with electric hookups and improved amenities tend to fill quickly during summer weekends. Primitive tent camping in more remote areas provides greater solitude but requires self-sufficiency. Kentucky's mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed sites accommodates various camping preferences, with the most developed facilities offering amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and camp stores, while remote sites provide a more traditional outdoor experience with minimal infrastructure.

Best Camping Sites in Kentucky (453)

    1. Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    140 Reviews
    Mammoth Cave, KY
    +1 (270) 758-2424

    $25 - $50 / night

    "This campground is a walking distance to the visitors center. It's a well established campground and geared towards folks visiting mammoth caves."

    "green river, which was enjoyed by all, and we appreciated avoiding the main entrance besieged by spring break campers!"

    2. Zilpo Campground

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

    $31 - $105 / 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."

    3. Koomer Ridge Campground — Daniel Boone National Forest

    48 Reviews
    Pine Ridge, KY
    +1 (606) 663-8100

    $27 - $45 / 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)."

    4. Kentucky Horse Park Campground

    50 Reviews
    Georgetown, KY
    Website
    +1 (859) 259-4257

    $50 - $53 / night

    "I'll preface this with the fact that I am a Lexington, KY Native and have always lived close to the Kentucky Horse Park and Kentucky Horse Park Campground, but have never stayed there until this weekend"

    "Clean bathrooms and sites, within easy walking distance to the Kentucky Horse Park. Pay attention to which site you pick- if you’re in c loop, it’s a long walk to the bathroom!"

    5. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground

    46 Reviews
    Patriot, IN
    Website
    +1 (859) 384-3522

    $40 / night

    "There’s also some hiking and biking trails accessible from the main turnoff from the highway, so there’s plenty to do in the area if you’re stopping on through or staying a few days."

    "A well groomed and cared for campground surrounded by a museum, bison prairie, hiking trails & other outdoor activities."

    6. Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Olive Hill, KY
    Website
    +1 (606) 286-4411

    $25 - $85 / night

    "Water was running over the edges of cliffs and boulders throughout the park into the river that flows through the park."

    "Lots to do within walking distance of the campground too."

    7. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    44 Reviews
    Salt Lick, KY
    Website
    +1 (606) 780-7818

    $35 - $150 / 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."

    "Amenities are near enough if you forget something, you'd never know staying here that there is a Walmart about 20 minutes away if you forget something important."

    8. Nolin Lake State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Sweeden, KY
    Website
    +1 (270) 286-4240

    $27 - $45 / night

    "Near Brownsville, Ky and a little off the beaten path. But definitely worth a visit or two."

    "This lakeside getaway is one that will keep us coming back!! If you've never been to Kentucky...this will keep you coming back to the Bluegrass to camp for years to come!"

    9. Middle Fork Campground — Natural Bridge State Resort Park

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

    $23 - $35 / 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)"

    10. Hillman Ferry Campground

    38 Reviews
    Grand Rivers, KY
    Website
    +1 (270) 924-2000

    "Hillman Ferry is the northernmost full service campground in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and is an excellent base camp for exploring the LBL and other recreation opportunities in"

    "This campsite is located in beautiful Land Between the Lakes. Many sites are by reservation, but many more are first come first serve. Sites are big and open and some provide views of Kentucky Lake."

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Recent Reviews in Kentucky

2649 Reviews of 453 Kentucky Campgrounds

  • Adam S.
    Jun. 23, 2026

    Cave Creek - Rough River Lake

    Quiet, and simple

    We stayed at Cave Creek recently with 5 other families.  We all take an annual trip together with 12 adults, 6 dogs, and 13 kids from 8-18.  We had initially booked at another campground, and locked our sites in to be close to each other.  The campground re-arranged our sites without contacting us at the last minute.  Fortunately, Cave Creek had open sites on a loop, and was able to accommodate us.  We stayed at Site 22. with our friends.  We have a 30' travel trailer, and this site was large enough to handle our truck and trailer, along with our friends 28' trailer on site 21.  It was a little tricky to get backed in, but not impossible. Electric and water both worked great at our site without issue.  Campground is fairly nice.  Not a lot of amenities, but restrooms and showers were clean. Easy access to the lake, and nice docks, and boat ramp. There's some hiking trails, along with access to a small cave.  The camp host Shirley was very friendly, helpful, and hardworking.  We saw her checking and cleaning throughout the week, and even stopped at our campsites to check on us.  Overall a great experience!

  • Dave P.
    Jun. 23, 2026

    Woodstock Campground

    Woodstock

    In live locally and they keep it carry nice and always a great spot for family and kids

  • Jacquelyn A.
    Jun. 21, 2026

    LockRidge Park

    Beautiful Hidden Gem

    LockRidge Park is a beautiful hidden gem with stunning views, unique accommodations, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty of Kentucky.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • Jacob B.
    Jun. 21, 2026

    Goldenrod Gap

    Charming, lush, and cozy

    Goldenrod Gap was a beautiful location to unwind for a weekend within reach of Red River Gorge. We stayed at a primitive campsite located next to the convenient showerhouse. Had anyone been using the nearby RV camping spot, we might have been a little too close to neighbors, but our stay was quiet, fun, and filled with cool wildlife sightings on the guest-only trails. Access to the campground was easy, the facilities were clean and fully functional. The hiking trails were varied in difficulty and scenery. Our favorite was Mushroom Loop Trail, which gave us a wide path up to the highest ridgeline on the property that is blooming with colorful mushrooms. But I'd like to give a shout out also to the Frog Trail that lazily followed a small stream flowing through a serene grove. Many great memories were made here, and I'm sure we will return to try out the other campsites on offer!

  • Danielle B.
    Jun. 21, 2026

    Goldenrod Gap

    A Weekend Getaway in Bloom

    I enjoyed a much-needed weekend getaway with friends at Goldenrod Gap! Staying at the Sand Pad site offered plenty of amenities that made the stay comfortable. The Maranda showerhouse was a pleasant surprise—easily the nicest I've experienced on a camping trip! The property is a short drive from Broke Leg Falls and offers a variety of its own trails to explore, each unique in its own way. I loved seeing all of the moss, flowers, and mushrooms along the trails. Closing out a day full of hiking with s'mores by the campfire and stargazing at Goldenrod Gap was a perfect way to kick-off the summer camping season!

  • Braeden M.
    Jun. 20, 2026

    Turkey Foot Campground

    My new favorite spot

    An awesome, secluded spot! Each site includes a picnic table, tent section, lantern post, and a ringed in fire pit with a rotatable grill. They are all mostly graveled in too. The creek is close and fun to explore and there is nice shade throughout. The fellow campers we had were great and not loud, however, the space does echo quite a bit, so if you were to good some rude campers, you would almost definitely hear them. There is also no cell service (which for me is kind of a plus).

    Free is free, so it’s that’s also a great plus. If you choose to visit just make sure to keep it clean!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2026

    Twin Knobs Recreation Area

    Spacious and private

    Campground is beautiful. Restrooms were very clean.
    Mix of hook up and primitive. VERY spacious sites with privacy and space between. Its right on Cave Run Lake too. Only negative we saw was widowmaker limbs in trees directly above campsites.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2026

    Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground

    If you are into bones this is a cool place to stay!

    The reviews I’ve read are pretty accurate. Most sights are not very level. The water is too far away. Nice park, the trails are rugged, we walked uphill both ways. Trails are not well marked either, it’s an interesting feeling getting lost in such a small space. Restrooms/showers could use an update. But hey, we’re camping. Overall recommended.

  • Braeden M.
    Jun. 14, 2026

    Pulaski County Park

    Nice Spot, Good Park Managers, Horrible Campers

    Overall I had a great one day get away at this sight. Two issues, Both of the primitive spots are by the road, and the other park goers are some of the least respectful, loud and and plan mean people I have ever been around. In contrast, the park managers are very nice and helpful.

    But for example, a car wrecked really close to my campsite at 1 am, people blasted music well past midnight, a car alarm went off around 2 am and then, the family of said car alarm, starting loudly arguing for 30 straight minutes at a volume that everyone could hear. This all happened in one night.

    I bet if you go on weekdays it wouldn’t be that bad, however if you want to sleep, I don’t recommend going on weekends. Which sucks because besides being a nice spot with good staff, other people kind of ruin the vibe.

Guide to Kentucky

Camping in Kentucky offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Bluegrass State.

What to do

  • Explore the Bourbon Trail: Many campgrounds are near distilleries. For example, at Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground, campers can easily visit local distilleries. One reviewer mentioned, “We want to return and visit more Bourbon Trail Distilleries.”
  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Campgrounds like Green River Lake State Park Campground offer beautiful trails. A visitor noted, “The lake is really pretty, the showers were pretty decent.”
  • Fishing and Boating: Many sites, such as Holmes Bend, are close to water activities. One camper shared, “The beach is great and right next to the marina.”

What campers like

What you should know

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A reviewer at My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground mentioned, “Sites were crammed close together.”
  • Power and Water Hookups: Be prepared for long power and water lines at some sites. One camper warned, “With exception of a couple of sites, everything is at least 30 to 36' away from your hookup.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Smith Ridge Green River Lake said, “Showers or bathroom, they never fix anything.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Look for Kid-Friendly Amenities: Campgrounds like CampFire Ridge RV Park have playgrounds. One parent mentioned, “Family oriented, pet friendly, peaceful with playground for the kids.”
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites. A family at Holmes Bend noted, “Most sites are spaced apart but close enough to make new friends.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. A camper at Green River Lake State Park Campground said, “We enjoyed the lake views and fall colors everywhere.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A reviewer at Smith Ridge Green River Lake mentioned, “They have a known power issue.”
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds may have tight turns. A visitor at Holmes Bend said, “Some spaces and turns would be tight for larger rigs.”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: It’s wise to have extension cords and hoses. A camper at My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground advised, “Bring plenty of blocks!”

Camping in Kentucky can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Kentucky for families?

Kentucky offers several family-friendly campgrounds with amenities perfect for all ages. Kentucky Horse Park Campground is excellent for families, featuring large level sites, clean facilities, and walking access to the Horse Park itself. The spacious layout gives kids room to play while parents enjoy well-maintained grounds. Another top choice is Taylorsville Lake State Park Campground, which offers spacious sites, nice picnic tables, and access to hiking trails and boat rentals. Families appreciate the lake access for swimming and fishing activities. For those looking for outdoor adventures, Mammoth Cave National Park offers camping near world-famous cave tours, while Cumberland Falls State Resort Park provides waterfall views and gem mining activities kids love.

What amenities are available at popular Kentucky campgrounds?

Kentucky campgrounds offer diverse amenities to enhance your camping experience. My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground provides water and electric hookups, though be prepared with extension cords as utilities are often placed at least 30 feet from sites. This campground is conveniently located near Bardstown and bourbon distilleries. Hurricane Creek features shaded sites that aren't too crowded, plus its own boat ramp for water access. Many Kentucky state parks offer modern bathhouses, picnic tables, fire rings, and dump stations. RV-friendly options like Camp Carlson Army RV Park provide clean facilities alongside fishing opportunities at stocked lakes. For water enthusiasts, campgrounds near Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley offer boat ramps, docks, and swimming areas, making them popular destinations during summer months.

Are there any free camping spots in Kentucky state parks?

Kentucky state parks generally do not offer free camping - most require fees ranging from $20-35 per night depending on amenities and season. However, there are some free or low-cost alternatives. Ramp - West Kentucky WMA offers primitive camping options with minimal fees. Similarly, Gilbertsville Ramp - DFWR provides budget-friendly access near Kentucky Dam Village. For truly free camping, look to Daniel Boone National Forest, which permits dispersed camping in designated areas. While not technically state parks, these public lands offer a more rustic, no-fee experience. Always check current regulations before heading out, as some areas may require a Kentucky hunting/fishing license or free backcountry permits. Remember that free sites typically lack amenities like running water, electricity, or maintained restrooms.

When is the best season for camping in Kentucky?

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant camping weather in Kentucky, with mild temperatures and less humidity. Fall is particularly spectacular at places like Koomer Ridge Campground in Daniel Boone National Forest, where the changing foliage creates breathtaking landscapes. Spring brings wildflowers and moderate temperatures perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. Cummins Ferry RV Park on the Kentucky River can experience flooding after heavy spring rains, so check conditions before visiting. Summer (June-August) remains popular despite heat and humidity, especially at lake destinations like Fenton Lake Access, known for clean waters and fishing. Winter camping is possible at year-round campgrounds, though facilities may be limited and water systems winterized. Many state parks reduce services after November until early spring.

Keep Exploring

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