Best Campgrounds near Slade, KY
The Red River Gorge area near Slade, Kentucky contains multiple camping options spanning from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. Koomer Ridge Campground in Daniel Boone National Forest provides tent and RV camping with drinking water and toilets, while Natural Bridge State Resort Park offers two campground areas—Middle Fork and Whittleton—both featuring electric hookups and reservable sites. Several privately operated campgrounds like Miguel's Pizza and Natural Bridge Campground provide cabin rentals alongside traditional camping. The region's diverse terrain includes sandstone cliffs, natural arches, and dense forest, creating varied camping environments from riverside spots to ridge-top locations.
Access to many campgrounds requires navigation through winding forest roads that can be challenging for larger vehicles. Most established campgrounds in the area remain open from spring through fall, with some private operations offering year-round availability. Several dispersed camping areas exist throughout Daniel Boone National Forest, particularly along Chimney Top Road and Tunnel Ridge Road, though these require purchase of a backcountry permit from local vendors. Cell service is limited throughout the gorge area, especially at primitive sites. One camper advised: "Stay away from site 39 - that has a good view of the wastewater treatment plant!"
The proximity to hiking trails and natural features represents a primary draw for campers visiting the Red River Gorge area. Campgrounds near Natural Bridge State Park provide convenient access to the park's iconic sandstone arch and extensive trail system. Riverside camping options along the Red River receive particular mention in visitor reviews for their scenic value. A visitor noted, "This is my all time favorite campground... This campground is actually a veteran owned boating rental/shuttle service with an attached campground. It's very spacious, I've camped on holiday weekends and never had other campers within 100 ft of my site." Weekends typically bring higher occupancy rates to established campgrounds, while more remote dispersed camping areas tend to offer greater solitude even during peak periods.
