The Daniel Boone National Forest region surrounding Stearns offers diverse camping opportunities across a network of connected trails and recreation areas. The area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,700 feet with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and mild winters. Fall temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, making it an ideal season for camping with reduced humidity and vibrant foliage.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Several trails near Frozen Head State Park Campground offer waterfall views and varied terrain. "Waterfalls were beautiful and everyone we talked to was super helpful and nice. Grounds are well maintained without taking away from the natural beauty," notes camper Brittni F.
Mountain biking: The Cumberland Plateau offers technical trails for various skill levels. At Great Meadows Campground, "There are lots of great hikes and natural bridges in the area to check out" according to Adelle C., who recommends this "beautiful secluded free campsite."
Fishing: The Cumberland River provides excellent smallmouth bass fishing opportunities. "The Big South Fork river is some of the best smallmouth fishing around," writes Nate H., who frequents the area. "Take an awesome little ferry across the river. Great simple site, clean. Good place to bring a boat," adds Dan N.
Star gazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Dark and starry skies, quiet and woodsy," reports Shelly S. about Little Lick Horse Camp. Tyler J. adds, "Camped here a few years ago and got wonderful night sky shots. Definitely worth a stay if you're visiting Big South Fork."
What campers like
Equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Stearns, Kentucky offer specialized amenities for riders. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, "each campsite had a place for horses, the campground was clean, easy to drive, easy to set up, and the bath house was very clean," according to Hailey S.
Natural swimming areas: The Cumberland River provides swimming spots throughout the region. At Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground, you'll find "sanded, river front tent sites. The camp sites are also shaded, very comfortable even in July. Great place for canoe, kayak & swimming activities," reports Amber H.
Secluded camping: Many sites offer privacy and quiet. "The sites are pretty private and mostly wooded," notes Chelsea D. about Bandy Creek Campground. For primitive camping enthusiasts, "You will drive and drive and drive...and drive on the gravel road. However the road is good and the signage will get you there!" writes Shelly S. about Little Lick Horse Camp.
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic, many campgrounds maintain good standards. "The campground was clean and barely smelled like a farm despite being filled with horses," notes Dan N. about Bear Creek Horse Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires additional preparation. "Free, no reservations, likely fills up most days in the summer. Parts of this campground are open all year, though you need to bring your own water while there's a chance of frost," advises Dan N.
Generator rules: Policies vary by location. At Barren Fork Horse Camp, "There are no rules on generator use, so beware that your neighbor may run the generator all day and night," warns Iris L., adding that "the price of the campground was $8 for one night/$12 for two nights."
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present throughout the region. "We got surprised by a bear while gathering firewood nearby," reports one camper at Little Lick. "Be wary of shy bears and bobcats," advises Tombo T.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal in most areas. "There is no wifi and no cell phone reception," notes Mary D. about Frozen Head State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection: Choose sites with appropriate amenities. At Bandy Creek Campground, "The sites were a bit short and we couldn't park our tow vehicle in front of our 17' camper. So large campers beware. The tent pads were huge, lots of space to play at each site," advises Chelsea D.
Activity planning: Bring supplies for recreation. "My daughter (9 yrs) brought her bike and was able to ride all around the camp site & have a blast," shares Liz A. from Frozen Head State Park.
Age-appropriate trails: Select hikes matching children's abilities. "The sites are pretty private and mostly wooded. There were acorns everywhere that our littles kept getting ahold of, and most of the trails are much longer than 2 miles, so there wasn't much to do with our two toddlers," cautions Chelsea D.
Campsite selection: Look for sites near water features. "Being a Ultra Runner fan girl I of course had to take a picture of the infamous Barkley Marathon yellow gate. I even had time to get in a hike up to Castle Rocks," mentions Liz A. about her camping experience with a 9-year-old.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Verify length restrictions before booking. "The sites were a bit short and we couldn't park our tow vehicle in front of our 17' camper," notes Chelsea D. about Bandy Creek Campground.
Access roads: Some horse campgrounds near Stearns have challenging approaches. At True West Campground & Stables, "The sites can be tricky for folks who aren't used to having a horse trailer. But, if you have the right skills, you got it!" advises Jovee S. For Little Lick Horse Camp, "I had to back down the gravel hill and get a second run to make it up!" shares Shelly S.
Hookup availability: Electric and water services vary by location. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, "We stayed here even though we didn't have horses, but those with horses have priority," notes Dan N., while at Barren Fork, there are "no electric hookups at $12 a night and $100 for a yearly pass" according to Chris F.
