Hannah F.

Louisville, KY

Joined March 2021

Remote & East to Access but a little Buggy

We loved this campground! It was so easy to access, the roads were well maintained and it was right on the coast. Plenty of campsites so one was easy to grab even without a reservation. Each site is super clean with a fire ring and picnic table. Free water spigots and nice gravity toilets. Price was also reasonable and the hosts were very kind. Only complaint is nature related and that’s the bugs! The flys are insane but you’ll quickly learn to ignore them - aside from a few bites here and there. We smoked them out and it was fine for the most part. We will definitely be back!

Limited Space but Nice

Beautiful but small campground. There are probably only 10 spaces, one is handicap only. Spaces are relatively close together and the drive down the valley to it is relatively steep - our sprinter van still made it. If the camping areas are full you could stay in the adjacent parking lot beside the ramp. There is a nearby trail and the river is easy to access.

Great Hike & Campsites

This area is so beautiful! We visited during mid-April, perfect for finding morels. The trails are well paved and marked, not too strenuous. So many beautiful trees and plants to see, plus lots of creeks to walk through. There are an abundance of areas to set up a hammock. We enjoyed the sycamore loop, which was around 6 miles. Everyone is super kind in the area, except for the gravel road to park (which is limited). Come Friday you’ll be fighting for a spot or face an $80 fine for parking on the roadway. More parking is a necessity with the amount of dispersed campers.

Clean and Spacious

A very clean and large campground. Seems well kept. There are very few fire rings so first come first serve, otherwise there are clearly marked areas from previous fires. Not much firewood in the area so recommend bringing your own. No water & only gravity toilets. Plenty of area to walk and great for families, a short distance from the Hickory Ridge Fire Tower.

Serene After a Long Drive

This is a stunning free campground but it’s got some cons. The first being that of course because it is free people abuse it. Don’t be surprised if you show up to ring pits full off all kinds of garbage. I’ll be surprised if it stays free for long due to this issue. Otherwise it’s a peaceful area with spaced out campsites. Each has a very nice fire ring. There is only a gravity toilet but it’s clean. No water during colder months so pack it in if you need it. Definitely recommend hunting for morel mushrooms come April/May! There is also a nice loop trail if you feel like hiking. Be aware that it’s a pretty long drive in with lots of hill and some areas that are strictly gravel. Shouldn’t need 4WD unless it’s wet, at which point I wouldn’t go as it’s in a lower level area and prone to flooding.

Fun, Family Friendly

This campsite is simple but enjoyable and located right next to the RRG. It is family owned and they are wonderful and so hospitable. Prices are low, and you can also purchase a size able amount of firewood for cheap. They’ll even drop it off for you. If the campsites are full, they’ll do their best to accommodate you in the own field section. Bathrooms are small but clean - no showers. Plenty to do on site, including fishing, karaoke some night, or visit the Reptile Zoo which is a short walk away.

Right Near the Main Attraction

Shaded area with very nice enclosed fire pits. So close to the trails, as well as the river/creek. Would likely be fun for young kids. It was a decent price but could stack up if you stayed while. The outdoor showers were neat but really cold. Depends on how bad you need one that you might take one.

Beautiful & Clean

This campsite has clean bathrooms & clean campsites. It’s very secure and safe. There are also even hookups & water access at each site. Showers are also hot! One of our all time favorite campsites, very nice all around.

Free & Spacious

This campground is completely free and most of all well spaced out. There is plenty of room to keep to yourself and remain undisturbed between the 8 available spots. Far from the road so no noise or blaring light. Nearby are a variety of trails of varying lengths. The gravity toilet is well maintained but no access to water. Very few bars so don’t expect to get any service and you won’t be disappointed. We will be back!

Remote with lots of Trails

If you’re looking for a fun place to hike this is it. Lots of trails, old and new, with unique rock formations that you will love climbing through, around and over. There are also trailhead lots you can camp in for free if you prefer and have the items necessary. Watch for snakes, stumbled across a few danger noodles ourselves!

Best During Winter

This park is a must-visit during the winter time, but come the spring and summer stay far away. It has a $3-$6 entry fee making it a hotspot for tourist and locals who want a cheap getaway. People are disrespectful and it is overcrowded making it horrible. It will fill up moments after the gate opens at 9. Instead come when it’s cold and have the place all to yourself with a better chance at seeing wildlife.

Beautiful Setting

I camp here annually with my cousin. It’s a great campground if you don’t mind being in a more crowded setting. Aka less remote! Opt for the campgrounds towards the back for a little more privacy and immediate access to the nearby creek. Granted walking to the restroom is a little further. Fills up relatively quickly so would recommend booking in advance during peak seasons. Also be sure to bring your own wood or purchase from local homeowners. No picking up allowed.