Red River Gorge offers rustic to full-service cabin accommodations within forested hills at elevations of 600-1,200 feet. The area features sandstone cliffs, natural bridges, and over 100 natural stone arches accessible from cabin locations. Weather patterns in this region can shift rapidly, with temperature drops of 30+ degrees possible between day and night during spring and fall seasons.
What to do
Hiking to arches: Within the Red River Gorge area, several natural arches are accessible via short hikes from cabin accommodations. "Princess Arch offers 105ft of elevation and is a quick 0.6 mi hike from the parking loop. There are bathrooms and trash bins at the parking loop," notes Wayne H. of Red River Gorge Campground.
Water recreation: Access kayaking opportunities directly from some cabin locations. "Kayaking was fun, despite obstacles in the river due to recent rains," reports Lee D. who stayed at Red River Adventure. This location offers cabin options alongside primitive camping with $10 per person kayak rentals and transportation to put-in sites.
Rock climbing: Many cabin accommodations serve as base camps for climbing excursions. "A fantastic place for primitive backpack camping! There are 100's of rock climbs on bullet proof rock! Just try to come here during the weekdays as the weekend we were there it was a zoo!" advises Alan B., describing the climbing options accessible from various cabin locations.
What campers like
Cabin convenience: Cabin rentals at Lago Linda Hideaway provide comfortable accommodations close to outdoor activities. "The cabin we stayed in on one of our visits, had a queen bed, kitchen area and bathroom with a shower. Plenty of trees to hang a hammock, as well. Some of the cabins overlook the beautiful lake," shares Heather K.
Fishing opportunities: Some cabins provide direct access to fishing. "They have a small fishing pond, swimming pool, basketball court, and a playground. They are very close to Natural Bridge/Red River Gorge area," explains Christy W. about 4 Guys RV Park, which offers cabin rentals with full amenities.
Private settings: Cabins at many locations offer secluded settings with natural boundaries. "The campground is in a wooded area and each campsite is separate by woods from the nearby sites. There are shower and toilet facilities close by. The campground is located on a lake," notes Stephen H. about Twin Knobs Recreation Area's cabin accommodations.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, cabin reservations should be made months in advance. "We stayed at site 11. It was at the end of the row and opened to a nice grassy area in front of the Bathhouse and Restrooms. The staff was super nice and accommodating when my mom arrived the day after," explains Marissa G. at Natural Bridge Campground.
Firewood restrictions: Local regulations prohibit bringing outside firewood into most camping cabin areas. "We arrived and checked in. You cannot bring in firewood from outside of Natural Bridge State Park/Red River Gorge, so we purchased some with our reservation," continues Marissa G.
Parking permits: For cabins located near hiking areas, parking permits are required. "Pick up your parking pass at the Shell gas station at 12187 Campton rd, Stanton, KY. A three days pass is $5," advises Wayne H. for cabins near trailhead access points.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Cabins near water access points provide family recreation opportunities. "The lake is perfect for swimming in and has a dock and life jackets for campers use. The gravel/dirt road getting to the lake is steep, so I recommend walking down to the lake," suggests Heather K. about Lago Linda Hideaway.
Recreation variety: Family-friendly cabin locations include multiple activity options. "They have a small fishing pond, swimming pool, basketball court, and a playground," notes Christy W., making 4 Guys RV Park cabins suitable for families with children of different ages.
Water access considerations: Consider cabin proximity to water for family activities. "We got there as quick as we could and are glad we did as we were able to grab an awesome site. There are tent sites and RV sites here and the campground is gorgeous. It's right on a lake (so expect boat traffic)," shares Bounding Around about Twin Knobs Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site drainage: For RV campers considering cabin rentals during rainy periods, drainage matters. "We stayed June 5th through June 9th and it rained every day, a lot. Our campsite (A-30) drained the rain off really well," explains Karen P. about Twin Knobs Recreation Area, which offers both cabin and RV accommodations.
Power options: RV sites with cabin rentals offer varying electrical capacity. "Hookup was 30 amp. No water hookup but water is available onsite for your freshwater tank. Dump site also provided," reports Kelsey G. about Land of the Arches Campground facilities.
Off-grid considerations: Some cabin areas lack full services. "Very clean restrooms. Pool, fishing lake," shares Anne D. about 4 Guys RV Park, noting that while commercial campgrounds provide reliable amenities, more rustic cabin locations may require self-sufficiency.
