Best Tent Camping near Stanton, KY
Daniel Boone National Forest surrounding Stanton, Kentucky offers diverse tent camping options, with Red River Gorge Geological Area serving as the primary destination for primitive tent camping. The region features both established tent campgrounds and dispersed backcountry tent sites throughout the forest. Paragon Dispersed Camping Area provides free tent-only camping with lakeside sites about 30 minutes northeast of Stanton. Red River Gorge Adventures offers riverside tent campsites with basic amenities, while walk-in tent sites can be found along Tunnel Ridge Road in the Red River Gorge area. Most primitive tent camping in the gorge requires a permit available at the Shell gas station in Stanton for approximately $5 per three-day stay.
Most tent campsites in the area feature natural surfaces ranging from forest duff to sandy riverbanks. Facilities vary significantly between locations, with dispersed camping areas providing minimal amenities beyond fire rings. Vault toilets are available at trailheads and some established campgrounds, but most backcountry tent sites require campers to pack in all supplies, including water. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, particularly during dry summer months. Campers should prepare for limited or no cell service throughout the region. At Paragon Dispersed Camping Area, visitors should bring their own toilet paper and plan to pack out all trash, as no dumpsters are provided. The Ole Cornfield offers more developed tent sites along the Licking River with clean bathrooms and shower facilities.
Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for hiking to natural arches and rock formations. According to reviews, the best tent campsites are often found near water sources, providing both scenic views and practical access. One visitor noted that Red River Gorge offers "primitive and paid campsites both available, depending on your comfort level and preference." Weekday visits typically provide more solitude, as one camper observed that weekends can become "a zoo" with rock climbers and hikers. The region attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round, with tent camping possible in all seasons. Areas deeper in the backcountry offer greater seclusion, with campers reporting they "never had other campers within 100 ft of my site" even on holiday weekends at some locations.