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Best Campgrounds in Kentucky

2,561 Reviews

With Kentucky’s 45 state parks, the greatest length of navigable waterways in the lower 48, and the world’s longest cave system, the state of bourbon and horse racing is a dream destination for outdoor lovers. A diverse state with numerous distinct natural regions, Kentucky has a plethora of camping locations. Whether you choose to visit a state park or national forest, you don’t have to look hard to find amazing locations for camping in Kentucky.

For some of the most romantic and rugged landscapes in the state, visit the Red River Gorge in the south. With some of the most spectacular sites for camping in Kentucky, the gorge is a popular destination with visitors and locals alike. Climbers and hikers love the steep and rocky hillsides and cliffs which make the gorge famous. Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Red River Gorge offers endless overnight options. From dispersed camping in quiet stretches of forest to whimsical treehouse and full-access campgrounds, it’s easy to find the perfect spot to spend the night. Snag a site next to a lake with record-sized muskies and you won’t have to go far to get on the water first thing in the morning.

If you love fishing, visiting Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is a must. With an abundance of lakes and rivers teeming with fish, it’s an angler’s dream. Enjoy lazy afternoons canoeing on the river or get an adrenaline rush on thrilling rapids. Nature lovers will love the plethora of wildlife and numerous hiking trails that wind through lush shaded forests.

Keep exploring Kentucky’s shaded forests and rugged cliffs in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area in southeast Kentucky. Boaters will delight in the park’s large, languorous rivers and quick-flowing streams. Sheer bluffs and rocky gorges characterize the river valleys where water flows over rugged rapids and slows in quiet pools.

There are a variety of options for camping in Kentucky near the Big South Fork, from primitive to developed campgrounds. If you’re travelling with horses, stay in the horse camp, complete with a tack store stocked with essentials. Keep in mind that most parks and campgrounds have a ban on bringing your own firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species. Check with the campground regulations before you come, as some allow collection of wood on the forest floor and other require you to purchase firewood from a ranger. Wherever you choose to stay, with the Dyrt you can be sure to find the best camping in Kentucky.

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Best Camping Sites in Kentucky (422)

    1. Mammoth Cave Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    137 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

    $28 - $94 / 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

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

    $24 - $36 / 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

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

    $45 - $48 / 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. Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground

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

    $25 - $120 / 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."

    6. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Campground

    45 Reviews
    Patriot, KY
    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."

    7. Twin Knobs Recreation Area

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

    $31 - $128 / 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. Ridgeline Campground — Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

    38 Reviews
    Parkers Lake, KY
    +1 (606) 309-4808

    $28 - $37 / night

    "Sadly, there is a massive amount of trash at the bottom (as you can see in the pictures posted here) which takes away from the natural appearance of the falls."

    "It’s has many (12) trails and many falls. Would definitely recommend shopping before camping, it’s several miles, and mountains, to get to stores."

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Recent Camping Photos in Kentucky

707 Photos of 422 Kentucky Campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Kentucky

2561 Reviews of 422 Kentucky Campgrounds

  • Kody Bear A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Redbird Boat Ramp

    It's nice and private

    Nothing special there is a boat ramp. Plenty of space for a couple RVs. No amenities. The sky was beautiful. Would go again. About ten miles off 75. We were there in Sept 2025

  • Anna M.
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Fenton Self-Service Campground

    Basic

    Right off a main road the spots are shallow so not ideal for long rigs. It does have power and one pit toilet at one end.

  • Anna M.
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

    Cleanest Bathrooms

    There is nothing special about the location. There is a boat ramp nearby. There were only people set up in the park today. They do have a playground.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Kentucky Horse Park Campground

    Beautifuly kept and right next to the amazing horse park

    We spent two nights here and were pleasantly surprised that most of the campsites had probably at least 50 to 60 feet between each one and lots of grass and trees. The campsite we stayed in, 140, was a pull through so that was bonus. Most of the campsites look like they had at least water and electric and I think there might have been some sites that had sewer as well. Right next-door to the Kentucky Horse Park, which is a must see. Very interesting museum and lots of barn with different types of horses in them to visit. If you buy your ticket at the campground, you would get five dollars off the admission fee.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Elkhorn Creek RV Park

    Wonderful place to stay with easy access to the Bourbon Trail and Frankfort

    We stayed for several days so that we could visit distilleries on the Bourbon Trail. Frankfort is almost close enough to bicycle to. Lexington is less than an hour away. It was a great base for visiting many interesting places.

    Elkhorn Creek RV Park was fantastic. The sites were clean and everything worked. The staff was super friendly. We stayed in a creekside site so we had a little bit of scenery. It is a pretty urban place, not a state park, so we didn't expect it to be as pretty as it turned out to be.

    The pool was plenty warm. The bathroom was clean. The classic rock singer who came in and sang in the pavilion on Saturday night was fun.

  • Patrick T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Hones Pointe Campground

    Amazing camp site

    Wonderful campsite. They put a lot of time and thought into this property. It’s truly incredible.

  • Michele R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Morning View Farms

    Weekend getaway

    I could not say enough enough wonderful things about our stay. Our host was amazing, the nature was peaceful, serene, and everything we needed for a relaxing time away from home.

  • Amanda W.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Elkhorn Campground

    Quiet & friendly

    I stayed here for 2 weeks while visiting family in the area. Very safe & quiet campground with very friendly staff.

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.

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