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Cave Run Lake

The best camping in Cave Run Lake, KY

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Stories from the community

Derek

2 weeks ago

18 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Bar on the Mountain

Definitely preferred when this was one private site, but the neighbors were ok. Way too close for comfort, though.

Marie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

Liz is simply fantastic! The bath houses are very clean and well stocked. Staying here is like staying at a 5 star hotel, only it’s outside where we campers want to be. It’s an absolute must.

Zygimantas

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Great location near Red River Gorge. Helpful hosts & great communicators.

Greg

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

We had an absolutely amazing time at The LAAAAND. The views were stunning in every direction, and the trails were a blast to hike beautiful, and full of variety. We only had two days to explore and easily could’ve spent a full week out there and still not seen everything. The campsite was peaceful, well stocked with firewood, spacious, and perfect for unplugging. We’ll definitely be back again!

Tania

3 weeks ago

10 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

I didn't get to camp bc the weekend i reserved was 20 degrees and i didn't want to do it. I still want to leave a good review because they kept good contact and emails of everything i needed to know on how to get there and a even a video of the road leading up to the camp. Im planning on reserving again when its not so cold!

Marissa

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Bar on the Mountain

Location! Location! Breathtaking view and plenty of space to set up camp and enjoy nature. The bar was a nice central hub for our cooking setup and to keep it dry without having to set up a tarp. Fire pit great size and the constructed seating (boulders, rock slab tables, benches etc) gave plenty of room. Where we pitched camp had plenty of tall trees around for privacy and blocking wind, which was extremely helpful as we got caught in a bit of some snow. The other site at this location is just across the loop but you wouldn’t notice so feels like you are in a private area. Toilet on site could use some emptying and cleaning as it was pretty full and dirty when we arrived. Other than that note amazing spot and can’t wait to come back when the weather is better!

Kaitlynn

3 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Backwoods Hideaway

Great place! So peaceful and quiet. The host provided everything we could need, which was so helpful! I loved that my dog was able to go with us, and he was able to be off-leash! Will be coming back in the future!

Brad

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

Everything about the location, setup, and scenery are absolutely perfect! The little touches of extras was unexpected and definitely welcomed! The grill rack, extra chairs, table were awesome, and the canopy came in clutch when we arrived while it was raining. We brought a couple bundles of wood just in case, and was surprised to see plenty of precut wood to use as well! The short hikes to the cliff and waterfalls are amazing, and the sights were incredible! Just be extra careful if it rains while you are there. Parts of the hike/climbing can be extremely slippery, especially on the more sloped areas. Absolutely would stay here again and again!

Joshua

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bar on the Mountain

Camping at Top Shelf was a perfect spot! The views were the best and it was very peaceful!

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Bar on the Mountain

A great site with great views. All around a great time!

Tyler

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Bar on the Mountain

I stayed at the bar with 5 of my friends there were lots of places to park our vehicles and set up tents and hammocks. On the second day it rained for hours we sat under the covered bar and joked and cooked food until it stopped and then we were right back around the fire ring. The gravel on the ground of the campsite helps the water to train quickly, we had no puddles. The view was truly captivating it made for a perfect base camp for our adventures into the Gorge. Even the porta potty was very clean. My only issue was the it’s hard to get tent stakes in the ground without a hatchet or hammer lucky I brought one with me so it wasn’t a big deal. I will return I. The future.

Matt

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Second time here. Very nice place and great hosts! My go to spot by the red river gorge

Chad

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

3 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

No wonder you have 100% on your reviews. The property is beautiful and the view overlooking the Daniel Boone National Forest is amazing. The camping spot was easy to get to with my Pickup truck and 16’ Sunray Sport Camper. The areas to hike and explore are well marked and there’s plenty of rock features to check out. Also not far from the Red River Gorge area to check out the Rock bridge and the Nada tunnel. Thank you for sharing your amazing property!

Allie

November 2025

14 ft pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at Bar on the Mountain

Very peaceful and quiet. Serene. Breathtaking sunrises. Private and spacious. The ultimate camp site for staying lowkey and having privacy.

Jessica

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

Beautiful location and very private. The views was great. I also appreciated the tarp to place my tent under.

Little grove of trees was a perfect place to set up the hammock.

Hannah

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

Awesome campground would definitely recommend staying there!

Justin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

We loved camping here! Wish we had been able to take advantage of the included firewood but the weather had other plans. Good space between other sites and beautiful fall colors surrounding us. And our host was super helpful and welcoming. Hope to be back!

laura

November 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Our little family stayed here in our pop-up camper, and it was nothing short of magical. The hosts were absolutely amazing — so kind, accommodating, and welcoming. They went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed and even met us upon arrival to help us find the spot and get parked easily. The campsite itself felt private and peaceful, surrounded by trees and nature with plenty of open space for our two-year-old and our dog to run, explore, and just be free. It was the perfect mix of seclusion and comfort — quiet enough to feel like our own world, yet close to everything we wanted to do near the Gorge. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The atmosphere, the hospitality, and the natural beauty all came together to make this one of our favorite camping trips yet. If you’re looking for a place to truly unwind and enjoy the outdoors near the Gorge, this is it. We can’t wait to come back.

Tollie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

Great location! Very pretty property, secluded and private.

Martine

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bar on the Mountain

We absolutely love this property and the views are spectacular! There was a proposal in the group over the weekend and the background, with the sun setting over the gorge, couldn't have been more perfect! We'll definitely be back to this site again and again.

Top-rated campgrounds

Trace Space KY

100%

(20)

7.1mi from Cave Run Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Wellington, KY

Ready to share your passion for an eco-friendly tiny camping cabin near Cave Run Lake and the Red River Gorge with someone who shares your love of sustainability and nature, too? This transforming aframe cabin is perfect for nature lovers, campers, and eco-conscious explorers eager to learn, see, and stay, leaving a wildlife-friendly footprint. The tiny cabin is a unique transforming A-frame camping cabin that occupies a compact area, certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a wildlife habitat yard and recognized as a certified garden and monarch waystation through monarchwatch.org. TSKY is located 3 miles from Long Bow boat dock on Cave Run Lake, 10 minutes from the Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail, and 18 miles from the adventures in the Red River Gorge. Outdoor seekers and enthusiasts will appreciate the nature trails, the lake's pristine waters, and the opportunity to explore the Daniel Boone National Forest or to simply rest and unplug. There are short hikes within a 20-minute drive, each offering its own unique discovery: arches, an overlook, a cave, and a 60-foot waterfall nestled within a small scenic canyon. With so much natural beauty to explore, your stay at our A-frame camping cabin is a perfect base place to Embrace Nature's Pace.

Pine Tree RV Park

100%

(25)

9mi from Cave Run Lake · 2 sites · RVs · Frenchburg, KY

My campground has 2 gravel hookups. Each hookup has city water, 50 amp electric, and sewer hookup. If you need 30 amp, I will rent a refundable reducer for $20. My house is nearby. Beautiful Cave Run Lake is nearby. It is 6 miles from the campground. One can hike, fish, kayak, boat ride etc…. We are 21 miles from Natural Bridge and 15 miles from Red River Gorge!!

Possum Ridge Ranch

100%

(115)

10mi from Cave Run Lake · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · West Liberty, KY

Our remote 375 acres part farm and part natural woodland nestled up to Daniel Boone Forest is ideal for hikers and nature lovers. There are several hiking trails onsite and plenty of woods to explore. ATVs or side by sides are welcome to be used on the main gravel roads and some designated areas of our property. There is plenty of wildlife but NO hunting is allowed. Some of our designated tent sites do have firepits and/or picnic tables. Our trek in sites do not have those options. Pets are welcome for $10 per pet/per booking and they do need to be leashed/under control at all times. This is an extra so please be sure to add that if you plan to bring your pet. Please pick up after them. We are a short driving distance from West Liberty, Cave Run Lake, Grayson Lake, Carter Caves, Morehead, Natural Bridge and Red River Gorge. We are approximately 20 minutes from the nearest store so you'll want to come prepared. We are located in West Liberty (Morgan County). There are 2 centrally located bathhouses with toilet, shower and sink and a hose for potable water. We have firewood for sale for $20 per stay and is an extra option when booking(use what you need during your stay and it is centrally located near bath houses) you can bring your own and you are welcome to gather from the surrounding area but please do not cut down any living trees/limbs. There is a centrally located community building with a Wifi hotspot, streaming TV, Keurig, microwave, fridge/freezer, toaster/air fryer, swing set, foosball table and darts.

Shasta Valley

96%

(58)

12mi from Cave Run Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Frenchburg, KY

The idea of Shasta Valley came to us through years of traveling in developing countries and falling in love with communal living and camping culture. We are excited to build or dream and share it with you! Learn more about this land: We are nestled between cave run lake and the north entrance of Red River Gorge off the beaten path. Enjoy 20 Acres of private forest, creeks, waterfalls, and a giant open hill top great for larger groups. We have hilltop car camping and tent camping on a 3 acre field surrounded by forest. Bring your tents, van, overlanders and small campers (pulled with a 4wd) to Shasta Valley! Hiking: 1.5 Miles to Sheltowee Trace Trail 6 Minutes to Broke Leg Fall 10 Minute to Devils Market House Arch 20 Minutes to Jump Rock, Indian Staircase, Gladie Welcome Center and all the other highlights of the north side of the gorge!

The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

100%

(134)

15mi from Cave Run Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Frenchburg, KY

When you want to get away to nature, what do you envision? We're a family that loves to camp; and while we love a stop at a KOA or community campground, we sometimes crave quiet time in nature without the noise and distraction of other campers. That's what makes The LAAAAND so special. The property is comprised of 50 pristine acres, with a mix of fields and woods, that bump up against another 250 acres owned by our family friends. The southern perimeter of the property is all cliff line, so you feel truly remote. The possibilities of sound pollution are limited to a far-off dog barking, horses being ridden down a nearby trail, or the possible hum of a distant lumber yard. Other than that, you'll mostly hear the wind rustling trees, deer and critters making their way through the woods, and possibly a waterfall at certain times of the year. Oh, and you will absolutely hear whipoorwhills, most likely at a time you'd rather not (we've decided they're charming). Over the nearly 2 decades we've owned this property we have spent countless weekends enjoying the simplest of pleasures; watching butterflies dance in the tree canopy, having dance parties at sunset on the deck, forging new trails and hiking into the unkown, sitting in the truck bed late at night gazing at a star-covered sky counting shooting stars. If you are looking for a space and place to reset and reconnect, The LAAAAND is waiting for you. (***Please note, we leave our personal camper on the property for the camping season, so you will see it when you arrive to the right of the campsite***)

Backwoods Hideaway

100%

(29)

17mi from Cave Run Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Morehead, KY

This is a camping cabin, in the middle of the Daniel Boone National Forest. We are about 85 acres, surrounded by hundreds of acres of national Forest. We are located about 2 minutes from the Sheltowee Trail, and approximately 30 minutes away from Cave Run Lake, and about 30 minutes from Carter Caves State Park. This is a cabin with comfort. You can camp and also enjoy nature. The cabin is off grid, but has a generator for heat and Air conditioning. The outside toilet is close to the cabin and has a "Wash up" area. There is also an outdoor shower on the property just a short walk away, that features hot water. Everything you need to enjoy camping and hiking with a bit of comfort!

The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

99%

(183)

24mi from Cave Run Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Campton, KY

Located 1 mile from the Red River Gorge in Pine Ridge KY between Mt. Parkway Exit 40 East and Exit 40 West and 8 miles to Natural Bridge State Park. The Kilns provides an area for rest and relaxation for those wanting to camp. while enjoying the outdoors. The KILNS got its name from large charcoal kilns that was a thriving family business in the late 50's early 60's. Although they are no longer functioning, they are part of our history. The camping area is nestled on a small family farm with 5 acres designated for PRIMATIVE Tent or Van Camping. The property is surrounded by beautiful woodlands and a lush green field, freshly manicured. It is easy access to Red River Gorge, Local Restaurants, General Stores all while secluded from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come relax and enjoy, we look forward to seeing you! Here are the coordinates: the maps sometimes take you to Campton, but the coordinates are accurate. Coordinates: 37.75254° N, 83.60836° W Address: 300 Johnson Ln. Campton, KY 41301

Family Farm Experience

98%

(26)

24mi from Cave Run Lake · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallingford, KY

Learn more about this land:What an awesome place for kids to experience farm life. Accessible on site is a shelter house, playground, farm animals for kids to see, feed or pet, and the privacy of a small working cattle farm to enjoy. We have a gas and wood pellet smoker, tv and DVD player, fridge and freezer, and tables under roof. There is a small game room in case of implement weather. Also have an above ground pool available in season. So much to do! Also local shopping in historic Maysville and Washington

Furnace mountain primitive camping

100%

(12)

28mi from Cave Run Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Stanton, KY

60+ acres of woods, trails and 2 small ponds for catch and release. Car accessible sites or hike in. You pick a spot and set up wherever you like. There is a porta potty on the property and we have camping toilets if you need one. Just let us know ahead. No water or electricity is available on the property. There will be signs of some suggested camping spots we have used in the past also. Atv’s, dirt bikes welcome! Please take out what you bring in! Feel free to contact me for directions. GPS may not take you directly to Tiny Jones road, but it’s the 1st right after Knowlton church. There will be a sign on the road that says Tilting Rock Trail to the left. Follow the drive about a mile into the property and pick a spot where you like!

Bar on the Mountain

97%

(155)

30mi from Cave Run Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Beattyville, KY

*ADDITIONAL SITE ADDED* Check out our new site, Top Shelf added March 2024! Primitive camping at its PEAK! Located in the heart of Natural Bridge State Park and the Red River Gorge, this secluded camping ground offers an experience above the rest - literally! Accommodates tents and RV/campers 24ft and under. 360 degree views including a front row seat to an Appalachian Mountain sunrise! Minutes from Hollerwood Offroad Park, Gorge-ous climbing and hiking trails, fishing/boating/swimming at Mill Creek Lake, restaurants including Miguel's Pizza, Rockhouse, La Cabana Mexican, and Thatcher's BBQ to name a few! Close access to Hollerwood Offroad Park.

The Honey Hut

100%

(58)

31mi from Cave Run Lake · 2 sites · Lodging · Mount Sterling, KY

This is a small honey bee farm . Cabin is between ten acres of windflowers and our 5 acre pond. You may see deer, otters, turkey, or even a bald eagle we saw once. Pets are welcome but you must select the optional per pet / per day fee under extras . This money goes to the cleaning lady .

HAYMARK FARMSTAYS Private RV Sites

91%

(28)

32mi from Cave Run Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · KY

Haymark Farm is a 285-acre farm in Ewing, KY, where alfalfa hay is produced. The farm has picturesque ridges and hills at one of the highest elevations in the area, allowing spectacular sunrise and sunset views. Three different branches of Buchanan creek begin on the farm and run together on the back of the property. There are also two small ponds and several barns (including one for your horses) on the property. We have three private RV sites (please see individual listings): RUFUS RIDGE RV BARN WALTER'S BARNYARD RV SITE CLYDE'S PRIDE RV SITE You are welcome to explore our farm! Take a hike; fish (bring your own pole and supplies); or relax around the campfire (we'll supply the wood). We generally have cattle in our pastures; and we also want you to meet our small, friendly farm animals! We hope you enjoy your time here at Haymark Farm, where Mark's great-grandfather Rufus began farming more than a hundred years ago. *Call us if you are bringing horses (up to 6) for details and pricing. We have also hosted donkeys, mules, goats...whatcha got? (We sell award-winning hay.) *We are one mile from Handi-mart grocery/gas in Ewing, and 10 miles to Flemingsburg, with restaurants. Don't miss the famous covered bridges, especially Goddard Bridge, and the Dinner Bell Amish store in Flemingsburg. We are 8 miles to Blue Licks State Park, 15 miles to historic Old Washington (have breakfast at Lil Jumbo's and shop at Local 68); 20 miles to charming Maysville on the Ohio River (good eats and important history); and 50 miles to Lexington (with The Kentucky Horse Park nearby).

The best camping in Cave Run Lake, KY guide

Overview

About

For those seeking a serene escape with endless recreational opportunities, camping near Cave Run Lake is the answer for you. Nestled among the rolling hills and part of the Cumberland Ranger District of the Daniel Boone National Forest, this 8,000-acre lake is more than just a picturesque water body. It plays a crucial role in flood protection and ensuring a clean water supply for nearby communities. A Cave Run Lake camping trip is unique not just for its scenic beauty but also for the plethora of activities it offers. From boating and camping to hiking and hunting, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. Fishing aficionados will be particularly drawn to the lake's diverse fish population, boasting species like bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake's reputation as a fishing hotspot is further cemented by the numerous tournaments it hosts throughout the year. Beyond fishing, the lake's clear waters invite swimmers, water skiers, and jet skiers to dive into aquatic adventures. With several boat ramps and marinas dotting its perimeter, access is a breeze for boaters. And for those who prefer dry land, the trails around Cave Run Lake offer scenic views and glimpses of wildlife, making it a hiker's paradise. Popular spots like the Billy Branch and Boat Gunnel picnic areas provide perfect settings for leisurely lunches or sunset views. Whether you're casting a line, setting up camp, or simply soaking in the views, camping near Cave Run Lake promises a refreshing blend of relaxation and adventure in the heart of Kentucky's natural beauty.

When to go

The best time to visit Cave Run Lake is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm temperatures ideal for water activities, though it can be crowded. Winters are less ideal due to colder weather, which may limit some outdoor activities.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and pack extra layers for variable temperatures.
Be mindful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
Remember to carry out all trash and leave no trace to preserve the park's natural beauty.
Office hours are from 7am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, but it's best to call ahead as times may vary.

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