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96% (8K) • 7,619 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Kentucky
Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground
1. Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground
98%
(716)
Williamsburg, KY · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Thank you for considering Clayton Geneva memorial campground for your camping trip. Please read the entire description including our rules and regulations. Also be sure to view the site map. The gravel driveway to the sites is passable with any vehicle As long as the vehicle Does not have an aftermarket lowered profile or entirely overloaded with gear. We offer camping ranging from primitive tent sites, to an actual cabin.
Hikers, kayakers, canoes, Horses and riders welcome, located a couple miles from Daniel Boone National Forrest, seemingly endless trails through some of the most beautiful country. Bring your canoe and kayaks. Located 16 miles from Cumberland Falls State Park. Located 11 miles from Sheltowee Trade Adventure Park. Located 11 miles from Kentucky Splash Water Park. 11 miles from The Mint Casino!!
Clayton Geneva Camp Ground began as a retreat for our family since the 70's. My grandparents, Donald Clayton Russell & Jewel Geneva (Davis) Russell, purchased this little piece of heaven to get away from the hustle and bustle of Cincinnati life. Judy was born in a little cabin just down the road. Judy & Don along with many family members have made cherished memories here over the years. We want to share its beauty with you and your family.
Please consider, Clayton Geneva is a primitive campground, gravel drives and left as natural as possible. This is not a sculpted campsite or a concrete campground. The primitive area is as such, gravel, grass, sand terrain accessible by a one lane gravel drive that leads over the hill and around the cliff to the riverbank. This drive is absolutely passable however is left bumpy to keep traffic at a safe speed as pedestrians also walk the drive. It is passable by any vehicle as long as the vehicle is not overloaded beyond its ability and/or has an extremely low profile.
Any area that is not an actual campsite is left to nature, not manicured, trimmed or sculpted. As you’ll find all the sites are clear please don’t expect micromanaging of wild growth of our native plants in areas around the sites as we reserve those areas for the wildlife to enjoy.
Please consider all the above mentioned details, primitive campsites are not for everyone and that’s ok.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Hones Pointe Campground
2. Hones Pointe Campground
97%
(901)
Campbellsburg, KY · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers so we could enjoy a unique natural setting. Over the years, we have planted many different varieties of trees and perennials to observe. Also evidence exists of this area being an Indian camp long ago as suggested by arrowheads and an old handmade rock wall.
Primitive camping where you can pick your own scenic spot. We will furnish picnic table, fire ring, garbage can, and charcoal grill during your campout.
Welcome!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hidden Lake Farm
3. Hidden Lake Farm
100%
(1325)
Cynthiana, KY · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Small family run private farm. A few primitive camp sites back by the lake. We do have an emergency case bathroom with shower at the barn by the entrance for use by guests. A portajon back by the lake. please message if you have any questions. We took a little break but are back. NOT SURE WHY IT SAYS THERE US A FIRE BAN. I’ve turned the fire ban off. FIRES ALLOWED AT CAMP SITE FIRE PIT. I’ve tried to edit and on my end it shows fire ban off. But so many campers have told me they thought there was a ban.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Daniel Boone National Forest
4. Daniel Boone National Forest
94%
(35)
National forest in Kentucky · 592 sites
Waterfalls, arches, lakes, hiking—This massive national forest has all the recreation you could want
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mammoth Cave National Park
5. Mammoth Cave National Park
97%
(88)
National park in Kentucky · 128 sites
Find magic below ground—and above—at Mammoth Cave National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Canyon Ridge Retreats
6. Canyon Ridge Retreats
Wellington, KY · 1 site
Canyon Ridge Retreats
Escape the noise without giving up comfort.
Canyon Ridge Retreats is a modern A-frame tucked among the trees just minutes from Cave Run Lake and the Daniel Boone National Forest. Whether you're working remotely, planning a weekend getaway, or staying for a month, you'll enjoy the perfect balance of nature and convenience.
Highlights
• Fast Wi-Fi for remote work
• Dedicated workspace
• Outdoor movie porch with a projector
• Hot tub
• Fire pit under the stars
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Peaceful wooded setting
• Minutes from Cave Run Marina, hiking, kayaking, fishing, and boating
• Self check-in
• Free parking with room for boat trailers
Start your morning with coffee on the deck, spend the afternoon exploring Kentucky's great outdoors, and end the evening soaking in the hot tub or watching a movie under the trees.
Perfect for digital nomads, couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a peaceful place to recharge.
Campfires
Hot Tub
Wifi
Camp Escape
7. Camp Escape
96%
(168)
Louisville, KY · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Rustic Camping Near Jefferson County Forestry & Tom Wallace Park
Welcome to our 5-acre corner lot, a unique mix of rural charm and city convenience. This primitive campsite is perfect for those looking to disconnect and experience nature while still being close to modern amenities.
What to Expect:
🌿 Scenic & Secluded – Our property borders Jefferson County Forestry, with an entrance just 1 mile away, offering miles of trails and outdoor adventures. We’re also near Tom Wallace Park, a great spot for hiking and fishing.
🔥 True Off-Grid Camping – This is a bring-your-own-gear site. No water, electricity, or showers—just you, your supplies, and the great outdoors. A fire pit is provided, and there’s a shared porta potty for convenience.
🚜 A Working Farm Community – Expect to see and hear a mix of country and city life. You may hear wildlife, passing trains, tractors, gunfire from Knob Creek Range, and nearby neighbors working their land. It’s all part of the experience of staying in an authentic rural setting.
🏡 Tiny Home Retreat – Escape to your cozy tiny home retreat nestled on 15 private acres just outside Louisville. This 200 sq ft camper-to-tiny home conversion blends rustic charm with modern convenience. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this cozy space offers a peaceful and unique retreat.
🏙️ Convenient Location – Though it feels like a getaway, we’re just 5 minutes from Kroger, Walmart, and a variety of restaurants. Downtown Louisville is a 30-minute drive, and we’re 15 minutes from Fort Knox.
If you’re looking for an authentic, off-grid camping adventure close to both nature and the city, this is the spot for you! 🌲🏕️
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rockcastle Riverside
8. Rockcastle Riverside
94%
(750)
Livingston, KY · 50 sites · Tents, RVs
Started as a retirement experiment, Rockcastle Riverside is a story told of music and family.
We have almost 200 acres of beautiful country surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest in Rockcastle County. With a mile of river to swim, kayak, and fish and enchanted forest trails to hike, climb, or play, we have all of the best Kentucky has to offer! We have more established sites with fire rings, or you can find a place off the beaten path for more privacy, if you choose. The riverside is perfect for hammock camping, too.
We love music and often host bands on the weekends. We rent kayaks and run shuttle on site, as well.
While there are almost 200 acres to escape into, on any fine night, the stage sits wit a drum kit and the will to make music within the Daniel Boone National Forest. Come play, come get away....we have it ALL!
We have a little of something for everyone!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Derby City Oasis
9. Derby City Oasis
86%
(7)
Louisville, KY · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our private, tree-lined 16-site Hipcamp property in a quiet, high-privacy setting for an urban area. All 16 campsites are flat/level and welcome every style of camping—tents, cars, trucks, small trailers, and more. Large RVs are best suited for Sites 1–6 and 13–16.
**Shared facilities available May 1st – November 1st:**
- One porta-potty
- One or two hasty outdoor showers
Water fill and trash service at the house
- Wi-Fi available only at Sites 1–6
The property features a mix of shaded wooded spots, open field camping, and sunny dog-park-adjacent sites. Be considerate of fellow campers, especially in the off-leash dog park area.
Nearly three fully fenced acres of manicured turf with plenty of shade from mature trees. Enjoy a private, secure entrance with a combo lock for sites 13-16. A 15/30A electric hookup is available near the main house, along with access to a water hose. The property includes multiple dog-agility features and obstacles for your pups to enjoy and a couple of shady seating areas for the humans too. A shared patio area with a fan, seating, and a fire ring is also available. (fire rings at most campsites also)
Churchill Downs is only a 10-minute walk away. Multiple restaurants, a grocery store, a laundromat, and a hardware store are all less than a 5-minute walk.
Drone video of property
https://youtu.be/oo6OIdccrZY?si=VptnAiSTWWpMgbTF
Other platforms
George's Private Dog Park In Louisville
https://www.sniffspot.com/to/ub0k6
*Please note*: This is a secure urban Hipcamp extremely close to Churchill Downs, University of Louisville, and the Kentucky State Fairgrounds. The majority of the property is fenced with six-foot commercial chain-link topped with barbed wire along the tree line. Access is through an electric gate secured at night, and the property owner (a law enforcement officer) lives on-site. Once you pull onto the property, it feels extremely private — most guests say their opinion changes completely. Check the drone video for a full view. If you arrive and still feel uncomfortable after speaking with the owner, you’ll get a full refund, no questions asked.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Natural Bridge State Resort Park
10. Natural Bridge State Resort Park
100%
(12)
State park in Kentucky · 75 sites
Discover Natural Bridge State Resort Park's stunning landscapes and adventures.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Carter Caves State Resort Park
11. Carter Caves State Resort Park
100%
(5)
State park in Kentucky · 129 sites
Forest hikes, subterranean wonders, and lakeside fun await at Carter Caves.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
12. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
100%
(4)
State park in Kentucky · 151 sites
Get your game on! This park is perfect for people who love to play.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kenlake State Resort Park
13. Kenlake State Resort Park
100%
(4)
State park in Kentucky · 87 sites
Discover Kenlake State Resort Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Harrican Lakehouse
14. The Harrican Lakehouse
99%
(318)
KY · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
There is a lot of history in this land. It's been in my family for over a hundred years. They worked the land with their hands and so have I. It's a special place. Come see for your yourself and be our guest at The Harrican!
Learn more about this land:
Unplug and unwind at this two story cabin built right on the water in the heart of the Kentucky Wildlands! Even though there is complete peaceful seclusion it does get a little noisy when the bullfrogs start their evening ritual. There is a dock and pier perfect for fishing or swimming. Firepit, grill with gas provided, two boats, lots of seating on the wrap around porch, two bedrooms; one with a queen bed and the other with two twin beds and just lots of natural beauty and peace! The Harrican Lalehouse provides all the ammenities to make your stay comfortable and relaxing! Early and late check in and check out options available when availability exists the day before or after your booked stay. Thank you for interest in the Harrican Lakehouse!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Deer Haven
15. Deer Haven
92%
(55)
Independence, KY · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Property is 15 minutes south of Cincinnati, close to the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport (CVG), close to restaurants and attractions such as Kings Island (approximately 1 hour), Creation Museum (approximately 25 minutes) and The Ark (approximately 25 minutes). Also nearby are several state parks and local favorites such as Big Bone State park, Rabbit Hash,and Riverbend.
We have 2 dogs who walk with us on leash and recently added chickens and goats! Elmer and Clyde do like to wander and explore. They are very friendly.
Learn more about this land:
Gravel driveway leads up to both spots. We do try to keep it maintained, but frequently rain causes ruts faster than we can fill. It should not impede drivability, but use caution and feel free to ask if you have any concerns. #1 improvement planned is paving driveway. You may also experience some vehicle noise from roadway. Typically, as we are on a back road, it is fairly quiet but some drivers may be louder than others and some evenings see more traffic.
Level gravel area for RV parking, second plateau available for multiple tent sites. Campfires in designated area.
Deer, wild turkeys, opossums, crows and raccoons are plentiful and often wander through. Less common are foxes and bald eagles that make their home at Doe Run Lake nearby.
Main home on property but only close enough for assistance, not interference.
Property is close to Creation Museum and the Ark. 10 minutes from restaurants and expressway but feels like a retreat. Ask about special discounts if visiting these attractions.
Discounts also available for single parents & military.
Included: Wi-fi, trash, private area for camp toilet, fire ring, water, and extension cord electric. Grill & patio table at site 2.
Available in extras: Camp stove, fire wood, tent and chair rentals.
Please be considerate and do not drive behind the house. There is no safe turnaround past the house parking by the deck.
We are not set up for long term stays, including consecutive bookings to get around time frames.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Art Farm
16. The Art Farm
97%
(223)
Paducah, KY · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides.
Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings.
Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive)
We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all.
Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations.
LGBTQ friendly. :)
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Serenity Camp
17. Serenity Camp
98%
(382)
Beattyville, KY · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
I moved back here a few years ago to my home place where I grew up. To me it is the most relaxing thing I can do to just sit by a bonfire and look at the view.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone
18. Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone
99%
(238)
Lawrenceburg, KY · 5 sites
Our farm is located on the property where the ferry brought individuals across the KY River from Versailles, KY. We are a private farm and live here for the pleasure of the land, the quiet from the city, and the outdoor activities. We want to share this with our guests.
Learn more about this land:
Come and enjoy bourbon country on the Kentucky River. We are located next door to the Wild Turkey Distillery, and within miles of a few others. Our 35-acre property offers immediate access to the KY River, and is within 5 minutes of an extremely quaint downtown area, should you decide to go to town for a meal. Plenty of restaurants for your choosing! 7 minutes away is a Walmart should you forget anything. Come and relax in our peaceful surroundings. Horses, goats, chickens, mini mules, and mini horses on site and loving attention. Bring your frisbees, cornhole, and yard games.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Red River Gorge Glamping Resort
19. Red River Gorge Glamping Resort
88%
(36)
Stanton, KY · 15 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Red River Gorge Glamping Resort, a boutique woodland retreat tucked into 13 acres of forest, meadows, and starlit sky in the Appalachian foothills. Designed for slow mornings, campfire nights, and meaningful connection, our property blends rustic charm with thoughtful comforts across canvas bell tents, cozy cabins, and RV-friendly sites.
Wake up to birdsong drifting through the trees, sip coffee while mist rises from the hills, and wander the network of footpaths that connect each lodging to the communal fire pit, outdoor gathering meadow, and our modern bathhouse with hot showers and clean restrooms.
A brand-new shared hot tub sits in the center of the meadow—perfect for warming up after a winter hike or unwinding under a canopy of stars.
Every space is crafted to feel inviting and soulful: warm lighting, soft bedding, rugs underfoot, heaters and electric blankets in the tents, and special touches like complimentary s’mores kits for campfire nights. Cabins offer added privacy, wooded decks, lofted sleeping spaces, and peaceful views of the surrounding hills and horse pastures.
Located just 25 minutes from Natural Bridge State Park and minutes from iconic Red River Gorge trails, climbing crags, and scenic overlooks, this is an ideal basecamp for adventure—whether you’re here to hike, climb, explore, meditate, write, or simply breathe.
At night, gather under the stars, soak in the hot tub, or settle into the quiet stillness that defines life in the Gorge. In the morning, wander to our open meadow for sunrise views, stretch out with yoga, or stroll the property’s paths with a cup of something warm.
We are a work in progress—intentionally. New features, artistic touches, and community spaces are always unfolding as we slowly shape this land into a woodland sanctuary for travelers, dreamers, families, and nature lovers alike.
Come reconnect with yourself, with each other, and with the natural world.
Your spot by the fire is waiting.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Possum Ridge Ranch
20. Possum Ridge Ranch
100%
(133)
West Liberty, KY · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Kevin
2 days ago
18 ft rooftop tent
Shelby’s land was a great spot! We were in the black walnut site. Close to amenities but secluded enough to get the feeling of being out there. There was some road noise but it was mostly drowned out by the katydids and cicadas Also the train comes by late in the evening but I didn’t find it bothersome. Directions and rules were simple and easy to follow. Property is behind a locked gate (you get the code) which adds a little extra privacy/security. Very affordable price as well. We will be back!
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J
Jessica
2 days ago
Tent
This has been a beautiful escape away from home. I have been needing some time away from the city and this place did it for me. I fell asleep every night to the sound of a river behind me.
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Helen
5 days ago
Tent
Tent camping on Amber’s land was all around a great experience. The campsites were good sized and clean, flat and spaced out enough. Old stump, hammock haven, sycamore cove and rivers end we’re all right on the water, you can’t walk straight down from each campsite, but there were two access points on either end of the lower sides that are easy and seconds to get to. The first night the water on the river was quite high after very heavy rains, so the access points to the river or more slippery and hard to get in the river, but after that when the water went down some, they are big rocks to wade and swim around, and put chairs for fishing. The first two nights, I stayed at hammocks Haven, only planning on one night, but added another with the visit being so amazing, then added a third night and easily shifted campsites to old stump when a friend of mine came down with her two and four year-old boys. The campsites are perfect for families, couples or singles.
The porta potties that are easily accessed from the lower campsite or cleaned to perfection and the flush toilet and shower. Closer to the upper sites were both also clean. Amber was welcoming and super helpful and responsive, she even came down and jumped my friend‘s car! We fed the donkeys and miniature horses which was fun and also ordered the Firewood bundles and it was tons of firewood for $15, can’t be beat.
I will definitely be staying again and I’m hoping to put together a group of teacher friends to go!
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M
Maya
5 days ago
1 night at The Art Farm
such beautiful, interesting, idyllic property! i went alone and felt safe & free to explore. would love to come back with friends sometime and stay longer
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S
Sheila
1 week ago
Tent
Hidden Lake Farm is perfect! It has everything I want or need— well-maintained primitive campsites, a pristine lake, paddleboat & kayaks (no extra charge), dock, nearby portapotty, gracious host! My #1 choice for camping!
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Lesley
1 week ago
16 ft travel trailer
The Derby City Oasis was the perfact space for our needs to tour the Louisville area. George, is very accommodating and gave us a tour of the site and available services. Our site was secure and we had a very restful night. Summer time camping you bring your bug spray; our Thermocell wasn't working se we got to bed sooner for our early departure. We would recommend th Derb City Oasis.
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Warren
1 week ago
Tent
The entire property was very clean and open. The site itself felt very private and secluded, which my girlfriend and I really appreciated. Host was incredibly nice and helpful when we reached out. 10/10, would go again.
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Jan
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Beautiful property. Secluded sites, well groomed, and easily accessible. Instructions were very clear and easy to follow, and the owner is very responsive, and helpful.
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R
Rocco
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
This was such a great experience! There were multiple sites to choose from, a fire pit, supplied fire wood, etc not to mention the host was extremely nice! 10/10 will be back! Thank you so much
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M
Missy
1 week ago
16 ft car
Great spot. Stopped in for the night. Amber was so friendly and helpful. Beautiful property.
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S
Shaakira
1 week ago
Tent
I enjoyed camping on a beautiful private property that was well groomed. It was super peaceful and felt safe. It did rain and storm a lot, with no flooding issues, so I think that brought a ton of mosquitoes. I would recommend bringing natural mosquito repellent . I would definitely camp here again!
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Robin
1 week ago
15 ft campervan
With pets
The site was private and very pretty. The pictures probably don't do it justice, but there's not a whole lot more to photograph - just pretty green grass and trees - which is far from a complaint. You can't photograph peace and serenity. The check-in and out was easy. Train tracks are right there, but we only saw/heard one train. Our stay was not impacted at all so don't let that deter you. We would visit again.
One tip - the address doesn't take you right there, but the directions in the listing are good. Look out for the railroad tracks and the red gate.
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B
Brianne
2 weeks ago
With pets
The directions to the camper were pretty easy to follow. Private and cute little spot. I wish it had been cooler during our stay so we could enjoy the firepit on the porch. The camper itself was very comfortable. Well stocked with basic kitchen amenities. The bed was super comfortable. Overall, we enjoyed our stay and would stay again.
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Jason
2 weeks ago
21 ft campervan
Great stay!!! Quiet and peaceful, and great upkeep!!
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n
nevaeh
2 weeks ago
Tent
It was nice I would go back they was very nice and even delivered wood to us for our fire
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Julie
2 weeks ago
25 ft travel trailer
This site was remote and quiet. They had fireworks on the 4th.
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Jeremy
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
What a great experience?!?! Amber was amazing, and the communication couldn't have been better. The site is plenty big enough for three tents, a table, and chairs around the fire pit. Awesome spot on the river and the water is shallow enough to walk across.
We put kayaks in at Redbird boat ramp and floated the 2 miles back to the campsite.
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Alessia
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Great area! Had everything we needed and more. Booked with Kim two years in a row and can’t praise it enough.
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Robb
2 weeks ago
With kids
Was an amazing place to just be with your loved one. Quiet and secluded from all the hussle and bussle of life. Highly recommend it if you ever just want to get away with your plus one or just some needed you time. But please don't be fooled thinking it's just for singles or couples. With a small air mattress placed under the raised Queen bed the youngsters now have their very own fort and resting place. It sits roughly 20 yards from the Cumberland River where we fished and swam then spent the evening relaxing under the trees by our small fire.. the host(s) Myke and Amber were amazing as well, they checked on us throughout our stay and offer a wide variety of services to make your stay even more comfortable. When the wife and i broke camp and slowly headed back to our busy lives simultaneously we said as we hit the black top.... Let's book this place again on our anniversary.......
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C
Caitlin
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
This is our second time camping at Hidden Valley and we love it! We couldn’t ask for a better campsite right next to the creek. Our two little boys explored the creek the whole time we were there. They found turtles and tons of toads. Kathy and her husband are always friendly and check in but otherwise leave us to ourselves, which we love. We were there during a heat wave and Scott even turned on the sprinklers so my son could run through the water to cool off. This is one of our favorite spots to camp!
See moreKentucky camping guide
Where to go
Bluegrass Region
The state capital of Lexington is the gateway to the Bluegrass Region, where Kentucky’s horse racing legacy takes center stage. Once you’ve visited Kentucky Horse Park and followed the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, experience 18th-century life and camp with full hookups at Fort Boonesborough State Park, go kayaking along the Licking River, or camp by the lakeside at Kincaid Lake State Park.
Appalachian Plateau
The misty peaks, sweeping gorges, and natural caves of the Appalachian Mountains blanket Eastern Kentucky. Adventurers will find plenty of fun here, whether rock climbing in the Red River Gorge, riding your ATV through the Black Mountain Off-Road Adventure Area, or hiking, camping, and horseback riding at the many state parks. If we had to pick the highlights, they’d certainly include caving at Carter Caves State Resort Park and admiring the “Niagara of the South” at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.
Central Kentucky
Bourbon distilleries, historic sites, and natural wonders abound in central Kentucky. Once you’ve experienced Kentucky Derby fever in Louisville and enjoyed the urban hiking trails in Elizabethtown, stop by the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. Further south, there’s rustic camping and UNESCO-listed caves to explore at Mammoth Cave National Park and popular campgrounds Green River Lake and Taylorsville Lake state parks. Or why not rent a houseboat and cruise around Lake Cumberland?
West Kentucky
It’s not all about bluegrass music and BBQ in west Kentucky—there’s also some great lakeside camping. There are myriad ways to get on the water at the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, from kayaking and tubing to jet skiing and waterskiing, and you’ll find campgrounds at Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, and Lake Malone State Park. Or, combine camping and Civil War history at Columbus-Belmont State Park.
