The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds near Bowling Green, Kentucky

Experience the beauty of river camping near Bowling Green, Kentucky with over 180 available options that cater to RV enthusiasts. Hipcamp offers a wide selection of campsites that provide breathtaking views of the river and surrounding terrain. Some of the top-rated campsites include Happy Hollow Homestead (441 reviews), Belle and Beau Acres (305 reviews), and The Slab (by the Barren) (210 reviews). With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $10, you can enjoy popular amenities such as trash, campfires, and pets while partaking in activities like historic site exploration, climbing, and whitewater paddling.

98% (512)

Top-rated campgrounds

Experience the beauty of river camping near Bowling Green, Kentucky with over 180 available options that cater to RV enthusiasts. Hipcamp offers a wide selection of campsites that provide breathtaking views of the river and surrounding terrain. Some of the top-rated campsites include Happy Hollow Homestead (441 reviews), Belle and Beau Acres (305 reviews), and The Slab (by the Barren) (210 reviews). With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $10, you can enjoy popular amenities such as trash, campfires, and pets while partaking in activities like historic site exploration, climbing, and whitewater paddling.

98% (512)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Run-A-Muck on the Red River

94%

(57)

48mi from Bowling Green · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Adams, TN

As a child I grew up on the river, canoeing down Red River and even playing on this very piece of property. Thirteen years ago my best friend and I started a canoe and kayak company to allow people to experience the same things that we experienced as children. We have met thousands of people and had opportunities to become friends with many of them. We look forward to seeing them every year. Six years ago we were able to purchase this piece of property for the kayak company and watch it grow into more than we ever thought it would be. It's almost surreal owning a piece of property that you played on as a kid. We are very thankful to have it and share it with others, and hope that they'll have some of the same experiences that we have had on it. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent or hammock (where available) next to the Red River, across the river from Port Royal State Park and adjacent to the historic Trail of Tears. You can camp along the river or out in the open. Seven minutes from the interstate (exit 8 or 11 on I-24). You can fish or swim in the river, try local restaurants in Clarksville, or just hang out and enjoy being outside. If you want to make a reservation to go kayaking, visit the website Runamuckoutfitters.com Also on site is a food truck called "The Dairy Dog", open April-September, where you can enjoy craft hotdogs, tater tots, pub chips, milkshakes, and beer. They are open Friday 4-8 Saturday 11-8 Sunday 11-8.

2. Camp Nashville Highland Rim

95%

(347)

42mi from Bowling Green · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Goodlettsville, TN

Primitive camping near Nashville on a secluded hilltop nestled in a hardwood forest. Flat areas for tents, car / van camping, and trees for hammocks. Plan to carry your trash out with you. Do not leave trash on property. Please read all details / rules, and share with family or group. Drive to camping location. First arrive / first choice of favorite of available spaces upon arrival. Spaces are not numbered or pre-assigned. Camping guests supply camping gear. No gear rental available. Amenities: 2 community water hydrants, community vault toilet, fire pit at each site. Outdoor hot water heater for shower Apr-Oct, after forecasted freezing temperatures. Kid friendly. No extra charge for children. (verify not charged for children if selected.) Camping location north of downtown Nashville on a ridge at a higher elevation overlooking Nashville. Camp away from noisy highways, convenient to I65 near multiple amenities, grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops . 5 miles from three I65 exits. 14 miles from I24. 18 miles from I40. 18 miles from Nashville downtown riverfront. Uber or Lyft to Nashville available. Check in & out times are flexible. Quiet hours after 10PM. If you're hanging out or arriving after 10PM.... keep it quiet for other guests. Pets permitted under owner supervision. Clean up after pets, and do not allow pets to interfere with other guests. Please be sure all guests know camping rules! Do Not Leave Trash!! Trash policy is carry in / carry out with you for disposal somewhere else. Trash service is not provided as part of camping fees. $50 trash disposal will be requested if trash left on property. Vault toilet works on a septic system and is not pumped. Only place toilet paper in toilet. Wipes, feminine products, excess tp should be placed in trash can outside vault toilet (only trash exception). Do not burn noncombustible items. materials or cigarettes in fire pits or leave trash in firepits. Only firewood or ashes should remain in firepit. Do not use knives, hatches, axes, saws on live trees. This will be considered damaging to property.

3. Chatty Heifer Farm

99%

(200)

46mi from Bowling Green · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Dixon Springs, TN

The family we bought the farm from owned and farmed it since 1900. They built a cabin then and built a house around the cabin in 1920. We bought it in 2018 and have been renovating it to build a retreat center for first responders and others who serve unselfishly. To that end, we've cut hiking trails and campsites as well as filling the farm with livestock to help people slow down and de-stress. We're located in the beautiful green hills about an hour east of Nashville, Tennessee. Learn more about this land:Drift off to sleep with the sounds of a year-round creek just outside your campsite. Wake up to a beautiful meadow surrounded by green hills in rural Tennessee. Campsites are located on a 120 year old farm under restoration, which is family owned and operated. Get some time away. You'll have privacy as you explore the farm: wade the creek, sway on the tire swing, visit the farm animals (goats, cows, pigs, and chickens), pick wild berries, and sample farm fresh produce and eggs when available. Hiking trails are also available on the farm through tranquil woods.Property is easily accessible from Nashville. In addition, day trips are possible to several lakes, rivers, waterfalls, historic sites, civil war battlefields, state parks, and national wildlife areas.

4. Mammoth Cave National Park

96%

(71)

128 sites · Park City, Kentucky

Find magic below ground—and above—at Mammoth Cave National Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Barren River Lake State Resort Park

100%

(1)

100 sites · Scottsville, Kentucky

Discover Barren River Lake State Resort Park's natural splendor.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Hidden Valley Haven

100%

(1)

46mi from Bowling Green · 1 site · Tent, RV · Goodlettsville, TN

Welcome to Hidden Valley Haven, a peaceful 11-acre retreat tucked just outside Nashville where the stars shine bright and the sounds of nature echo through the woods. Designed for self-contained RV travelers, our property offers a rustic, no-frills escape into Tennessee’s countryside — complete with electric, water, and a septic dump spot. Bring your own RV and choose between two private camping spots: 🌲 Forest Retreat Site – Tucked deeper into the property for maximum seclusion and wooded charm. To access it, you’ll back in about a football-field length on gravel. 🌊 Creekside Site – Near the small bridge, offering easier access while still surrounded by trees and nature. Each site is spaced roughly a football field apart, ensuring privacy while sharing a peaceful, family-managed space. Hosts live on-site nearby and maintain other guest properties, but your area is separate and private. ✅ Site Amenities: • 30/50-amp electric hookup • Fresh water access • Private septic dump station (not directly plumbed to RV site) • Spacious gravel pad for slide-outs, awnings, and chairs • Rustic fire ring area (BYO firewood, observe burn bans) • Wooded views and light nature trails on-site 🚷 Boundaries & Hiking Access: Guests are welcome to explore within Hidden Valley Haven’s private 11 acres, including the gravel drive, wooded trails west of the road, and the Potential Hiking Area shown on our property map. Please do not go beyond any “No Trespassing” signs, fences, or the top of the hill past the RV sites, as the adjoining land belongs to our neighbors. The property maps in our photo gallery clearly show: • Guest zones (RV sites, trails, drive, and hiking area) • Family-only zones (home, pool, volleyball) • Neighboring no-access land (highlighted in yellow) Staying within the marked zones keeps everyone safe and ensures good relations with nearby landowners. 🔔 Before Booking: • Bring your own RV. • Access road and bridge are solid gravel but can be muddy after heavy rain. • No smoking, parties, or loud music. • Pets must stay leashed and within guest zones. • RV waste must be dumped only at the approved station. Perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, starlit place to recharge — close enough to Nashville, yet far enough to hear the crickets sing.

7. Maple Shade Farm full hookup site

100%

(110)

46mi from Bowling Green · 1 site · RV · Greenbrier, TN

Tired of campgrounds that feel more like parking lots? Come and reconnect with nature and park your RV on our private, family friendly, large, shaded, full hookup, 72 ft long, 30 and 50 amp RV site with wifi on our 50 acre farm with fire ring and picnic table and screen house. We are not a campground, just a small farm in a rural neighborhood with 2 full hookup RV sites for guests. 30 minutes (17miles) North of Nashville, Tennessee. There are wild Turkeys and Deer that roam the property. We also have some free range Guineas and Peacocks which is why we ask that all dogs, while welcome, remained leashed at all times. We do have a leash free field for dogs to run. Great place to get away and enjoy nature, take a walk on our trails through the woods, take a hike down to our creek, listen to the birds and watch the sunset over the pasture while cooking s’mores on the fire, yet not that far from Nashville! Perfect for enjoying nature and/or visiting Nashville. This site is for self contained RVs only, there are no restroom facilities. Check in is between 2 pm and sundown. No check ins after dark without prior approval. Limit of 2 vehicles and 2 pets. When you request to book just let us know how many people will be camping, how many pets you will be bringing with you and what you are camping in, travel trailer or motor home, and what length in feet it is. Thank you! Since this is a natural area of fields and woods, along with farm animals and wildlife you may encounter insects. We recommend bringing insect repellent for mosquitoes and ticks and making sure that your pets have protection also.

8. Fruitful Acres

100%

(1)

36mi from Bowling Green · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bransford, TN

Enjoy this unique off-grid homestead, with private views of secluded deer habitat. Said to be the one of the best hunting spots in the area. Native paw paw trees are augmented by apple, pear peach and plum. Enjoy free free range eggs during your stay, and go Geode rock collecting and observe several layers of earth exposing fossils billions of years old!

9. Nolin River Lake

100%

(5)

347 sites · Brownsville, Kentucky

If you're a boater or fisher, Nolin Lake Park is definitely the place for you. Use your trustiest bait and cast a line for crappie, catfish, or walleye, which are abundant in the azure lake waters. Boaters will be happy to use a conveniently placed launch, and a sandy beach awaits swimmers and people gettin' on their tan on alike. Nine miles of biking trails are the perfect way to explore the shaded paths, and a shorter hiking trail offers the sight of a cascading waterfall. Keep an eye out for a variety of birds from great blue herons to wild turkeys. If you're lucky, you may even catch sight of the elusive and beautiful bald eagle. We can salute to that.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

10. Lake Malone State Park

25 sites · Dunmor, Kentucky

Discover Lake Malone State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Bledsoe Creek Camping State Park

100%

(3)

57 sites · Castalian Springs, Tennessee

Discover the natural splendor of Bledsoe Creek Camping State Park.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

12. Rough River Lake

60%

(5)

355 sites · Caneyville, Kentucky

Boasting rocky shorelines, verdant outcroppings, and tranquil waters, Rough River Lake is a stunning getaway for you and your closest friends. About 90 miles south of Louisville, it's far enough away from civilization to get a breath of fresh air, but close enough not to be too inconvenient. If you're really rarin' to explore, try hitting up the sandy beaches built for swimming and boat launches that are just waiting for your vessel. Hiking and interpretive trails are the perfect place to keep an eye out for wildlife, and no one will fault you for wanting to take a swing at the 18-hole golf course. With the historic Green Farm nearby, you can check out a large ancestral home and water-powered mill sitting on 3,000 miles of picturesque land. Pretty sweet deal, we've gotta say.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. Old Hickory Lake

100%

(2)

100 sites · Hendersonville, Tennessee

Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Old Hickory Lake.

Public campgrounds near Bowling Green

One of our 2 dogs enjoying the pet-friendly campgrounds.

90%

(10)

Houchin Ferry Campground

19mi from Bowling Green · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mammoth Cave National Park

100%

(1)

Barren River Lake Campground

22mi from Bowling Green · 100 sites · Tents, RVs · in Barren River Lake State Resort Park

Mammoth Cave Campground is really beautiful.

97%

(54)

Mammoth Cave Campground

24mi from Bowling Green · 109 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mammoth Cave National Park

100%

(2)

Moutardier Campground

26mi from Bowling Green · 167 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nolin River Lake

100%

(1)

Dog Creek Campground

30mi from Bowling Green · 70 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nolin River Lake

100%

(2)

Wax Campground

31mi from Bowling Green · 110 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nolin River Lake

Lake Malone Campground

34mi from Bowling Green · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Malone State Park

100%

(3)

Bledsoe Creek Camping Campground

41mi from Bowling Green · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bledsoe Creek Camping State Park

100%

(1)

Cave Creek Campground

42mi from Bowling Green · 62 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rough River Lake

Laurel Branch Campground

44mi from Bowling Green · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rough River Lake

Axtel Campground

45mi from Bowling Green · 153 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rough River Lake

100%

(2)

North Fork Campground

46mi from Bowling Green · 79 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rough River Lake

Stories from the community

J

Julia

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Chatty Heifer Farm

Patti was an amazing host! We showed up at night and she still showed us to our spot and gave us the best spot she had for rainy weather. The dogs were also so sweet and guarded us all night and gave us company. She also offered us eggs which is so sweet! We had a great time here :)

M

Megan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Chatty Heifer Farm

My partner and I made a last minute decision to go camping when our schedules changed. Patti was extremely friendly and communicative immediately when we made our reservation. I really enjoyed hearing from her. The campsite is not very far from Nashville and was a perfect getaway. The campsite has three guard dogs that are SUPER sweet. They were very playful with our 1 and 1/2 year old German Shepherd (who still thinks he’s, like, a 6 month old). We also felt very happy that these dogs were guarding us during the night. The road is somewhat close to the campsite but it didn’t have heavy traffic. This site was perfect for the three of us looking at a short, impromptu night away from home! The creek and birds were lovely to wake up to and we came home the next day cheerful and relaxed. We were at Site 2, but Site 3 also seemed great for a larger group.

W

Wes

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Chatty Heifer Farm

We thoroughly enjoyed our night camping at site #3! Our 3 crazy kids had a blast exploring the creek & running around the large field, while our dog enjoyed making friends with several of the sweet farm dogs. Patti was an excellent host & did a wonderful job communicating all of the information related to our stay. We look forward to returning in the future!

B

Ben

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Nashville Highland Rim

Tent camping here was a breeze. It felt very secluded despite only being 15 minutes or so from Nashville. We did hear some faint traffic nearby but not a peep during the night hours. There were some people hunting way far off in the distant and we heard some rifles go off a few times during the day, but we didn't feel unsafe by any means during our stay. The site was beautiful, fully surrounded by trees at the top of the hill--exactly what I was hoping for. Speaking of hills, there is a pretty steep hill to get up, yes--but with 4WD it wasn't really an issue for me at all. The sites are first come first serve and there was only my fiance and myself plus one other family that showed up several hours later. They were far enough away that we could barely see them. There's potable water and a toilet a decent walk from the site, but we didn't use either so I can't speak to those. Our interaction with the host was very minimal since it's self check-in and check out, but we didn't need anything other than the directions that were provided (which were very easy to follow). Overall I'd highly recommend this site if you're looking for some seclusion but don't want to drive hours away from the convenience Nashville area.

B

Billie

November 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Maple Shade Farm full hookup site

We love this place! We couldn’t have asked for a more welcoming and helpful hosts. Truly the sweetest couple you will ever meet and such a magical place to stay!

A

Adriana

October 2025

38 ft Class A

With pets

16 nights at Hidden Valley Haven

We loved staying at Hidden Valley. The rv spot is surrounded by trees, a cute little creek, a hiking trail, plus full hookups & wifi. Family and dog friendly space, yet feels quite private. Only about 25min to downtown Nashville! It's the perfect spot, a nature lovers delight ❤️

A

Artie

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Camp Nashville Highland Rim

Great place for a quick camping getaway in the Nashville area. Once you’re out there it feels as though you are much farther out than you are. Hassle free, good communication from the host. Highly recommend!

M

Matt

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Nashville Highland Rim

We enjoyed the campsite. Close to Nashville where we live, so it’s a nice place for a quick weekend camp. Don’t really see how 8 different bookings could fit up there though without sharing a fire or being right next to each other. Will be back though!

D

D Scott

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Maple Shade Farm full hookup site

I've been using Hip Camp for two years, and this was by far the most beautiful place I've stayed. I was met by the hosts who helped me back in and make sure everything was ready for me. Perfect level pad with full hook-ups. Only 2 sites, and I was the only one there. Very peaceful with a really pretty forest with trails behind my site. I highly recommend this location. I hope to come back someday!

S

Sydnie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Nashville Highland Rim

This was a great spot to set up with my tent. Not actually hard to find, the red reflectors by the road helped a ton!! Beautiful land, spacious sights and got to eat breakfast with some deer. Will 100% be back and will direct my other camping friends straight here!

Joel

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Run-A-Muck on the Red River

What a hidden gem! Great open area campsite right on the river! Gorgeous foliage, plenty of shade. Cleanest port a pottys we've ever seen at a campground. We're coming back next year for sure. Cute dog park too! 111/10 would recommend.

K

Kevin

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Camp Nashville Highland Rim

My wife and I stayed in a 17 foot teardrop. The drive up ( and then down) the gravel road was a bit challenging but we made it with no problem. The site was primitive but beautiful (see pic). Our camper has a toilet and that was handy as I did not see any usable facilities.

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Run-A-Muck on the Red River

Nice spot with a great night sky view. Loved being surrounded by the diverse sounds of nature.

A

Anna

October 2025

16 ft car

3 nights at Camp Nashville Highland Rim

Peaceful and beautiful spot, would definitely go back.

Kimberly

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Nashville Highland Rim

This is our second time staying here, this time we took the spot up top. Another good night, and we recommend it.

Brett

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Chatty Heifer Farm

We tent camped on the property. Our host was super friendly and one the massive Pirenesse dogs guarded our site all night. Really basic but super nice site.

Kevin

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Run-A-Muck on the Red River

Great location with a wide open field. Easy access to the river (boat launch) and good communication with the host. Would recommend!

r

rik

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Run-A-Muck on the Red River

Great experience,quite place, nature and a sky with millions of Stars

c

casey

October 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Camp Nashville Highland Rim

Just stopped in for the night on a long drive home. Nice secluded location on the top of a ridge, we had the place to ourselves so it was great. If you're booking for the toilet and shower they could use a bit of work. We'd stay again if in the area

A

Amy

September 2025

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Maple Shade Farm full hookup site

Ditte and Stan were absolutely wonderful! They met us at the site and helped us figure out our hookups. The site itself was beautiful with a firepit, a screened in area with a table, and walking trails around the property. There was a peacock that would roost in a tree by the site, so we saw him a couple of times which was fun.