Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe
95% (7.9K) • 7,649 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Kentucky
Camp Escape
1. Camp Escape
96%
(174)
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
Hones Pointe Campground
2. Hones Pointe Campground
97%
(903)
Campbellsburg, KY · 29 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
Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground
3. Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground
98%
(715)
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
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%
(89)
National park in Kentucky · 128 sites
Find magic below ground—and above—at Mammoth Cave National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rockcastle Riverside
6. 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
Possum Ridge Ranch
7. Possum Ridge Ranch
100%
(135)
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
Farm and Forest
8. Farm and Forest
98%
(273)
Lexington, KY · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Due to the sharp entrance from the road to the driveway, we CANNOT accept rigs over 34' long. We cannot accept 5th wheels (due to height) because of some lower hanging tree branches along the driveway. WE DO NOT ACCEPT LONG TERM STAYS!
This land has previously been a tobacco farm, a hay farm, and is now home to a few beef cattle. We have blazed trails through the woods for hiking, created campsites with fire rings, farmed hay, and grown various vegetables for self-consumption. We love the proximity of the farm to town, yet the seclusion we feel when we are on the farm.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Deer Haven
9. Deer Haven
92%
(58)
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
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
Kenlake State Resort Park
12. 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
Nolin River Lake
13. Nolin River Lake
100%
(6)
Park in Kentucky · 347 sites
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hidden Lake Farm
14. Hidden Lake Farm
100%
(1326)
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
Bar on the Mountain
15. Bar on the Mountain
97%
(180)
Beattyville, KY · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Beardsnest
16. Beardsnest
100%
(186)
Cave City, KY · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This ecological art project is recruiting visitors to camp on scenic prairies, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 2026, Beardsnest provides a glimpse into the 5th year of succession, which is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie that is flanked by the rocky and steep slopes of a mature forest.
Pet friendly and a good fit for self-sufficient types that prefer quiet camping over dense layouts, but still want to get into to the park quickly (~6.2 miles to Visitors Center) or travel into Cave City (3 mi) for a greater variety of food, drink, and other cave experiences. Expand from campsites into a sketch-work of prairie and woodland trails featuring characteristic karst elements of topography.
Visitor support allow us to plant trees (~530 seedlings as of March 2026), establish native grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species.
In our opinion, the essential Mammoth Cave NP experience should have 3 basic layers: 1) the underworld (cave tours), 2) upper world (hiking), and critically, the flow of water that connects the two (Green River). Mammoth Cave is unique in the way that a study of the underworld will repeatedly draw the mind into a creative space where we imagine what is beneath the surface and how these worlds are linked, while above ground hiking on land or kayaking on the rich and biodiverse Green River. There is more here than can be digested in a lifetime of observation, but examining in orbits of the 3 layers will provide a foundation of intuition and understanding.
Floating the Green River is like leaving developed reality and dropping into pure nature. We offer kayak trips and guided tours that leave from camp, tailored to your schedule.
Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project!
Commonly requested extras:
1. Dried and split firewood bundles, usually a mix of oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle, delivered to the campsite.
2. A variety of kayak tours to suit skill, fitness, and ecological interests, so visitors can float the Green River through the NP, departing casually from your camp and tailored to your schedule.
3. REI 4 person Half Dome plus 2 sleeping pads.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
The Harrican Lakehouse
17. The Harrican Lakehouse
99%
(319)
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
Noble Pine Campground
18. Noble Pine Campground
98%
(69)
Mammoth Cave, KY · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We provide a farm experience in a small campground with 2 full bathrooms with hot showers, 10 rv/tent sites, 1 glamping bell tent, 1 glamping aframe, and a 3 bedroom 1 bath ‘Trailboss’ cabin available for short term renting. There is a dump station for trailers, and sites have water and 30 amp electric.
Horses, goats, chickens, and sometimes a friendly camp cat are happy to engage with guests. Guests will have access to yard games such as corn hole, giant jenga, croquet, bocce ball, steer lassoing and more.
Camp is located on the north side of Mammoth Cave National Park.
There is Wi-Fi available on premises.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Derby City Oasis
19. Derby City Oasis
88%
(8)
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
Boone Valley Campground
20. Boone Valley Campground
95%
(158)
Beattyville, KY · 60 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Boone Valley Campground is a family owned and operated business that offers 30 acres of primitive, RV, and Van camping. Conveniently located only 1 mile away from the Pendergrass Murray Recreational Preserve, 7 miles from the Miller Fork Recreational Preserve, and 15 miles from the Natural Bridge State Resort Park and Red River Gorge Area. Boone Valley is perfect for outdoor adventurers and families who want to spend and enjoyable weekend in nature.
Ask us about guided OHV Tours in the area! We offer guided tours!
New! 2 Nights camping at Buckhorn Lake State Park. Including Pontoon Guide all day. Price is $300 for 2 people. Max group allowed is 6. Offer available from July - September.
Concessions Truck on the property!
Enjoy local events! Boone Valley is located 5 miles from downtown Beattyville, KY. Camp with us on weekends of local festivals such as the Bourbon and Moonshine Festival and the Woolly Worm Festival.
Onsite enjoy weekend live music, bonfires, and home cooking from the Boone Valley Kitchen.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Mady
2 days ago
Erin
4 days ago
10 ft campervan
With kids
Worked great for what we needed it for as we were passing through the area. Close to Cinncinnati where we were going for an event. Nice to have electricity available. A heads up about the steep driveway would have been appreciated, but the site was flat and host was very helpful and accommodating.
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Paul
6 days ago
Tent
This is a beautiful site. The host Kevin is consciously working on a ecologically sound prairie grass site that really takes a person in when they arrive. Very well maintained as well in the camping region, so an excellent mix of clean yard for camping and natural beauty. 110/100. Would certainly be honored to stay again and do suggest to others. Thanks Kevin.
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M
Michael
6 days ago
Tent
Really loved staying here, would definitely recommend it. The site was gorgeous overlooking the forest and felt a lot more secluded than a public campground. Kevin and his sons were super friendly and knowledgeable of the area. Highly recommend the kayaking on the green river, it was so peaceful and they were great about accommodating the best timing for dropping off and picking up. The beautiful and friendly pups running around was a huge plus as well!
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B
Bryan
6 days ago
Tent
This place is beautiful. I definitely want to come back with my kids. Kimberly was super nice and very welcoming. The site and bathrooms was very clean.
Thanks for a wonderful stay.
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a
ameillia
6 days ago
Tent
With kids
Always enjoy our stay! Our little ones love the big open field
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R
Rachel
6 days ago
Tent
With pets
I greatly appreciated the host warm welcome, responsiveness to questions, and clear directions. The site was well maintained and felt secluded from the three other sites without being being far apart.
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Colin
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
Amazing time, beautiful location, great hosts, quiet night. Must visist
See moreG
Gella
1 week ago
Tent
This was a really cute little campsite near the city! The biggest downside to tent camping here is the train that is so close by, however. But really, this was a great first camping experience! Thanks for the amazing hospitality here at this site!
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C
Cameron
1 week ago
Tent
Nicest host! And personally my favorite Hipcamp spot so far. We camped here for a concert at Iroquois Amphitheater (9 minutes away). Very much appreciated his Tesla charging station. It’s a little unique to pull into a residential neighborhood looking for a campsite BUT it’s behind his place-- acreage oasis dedicated to campers and he’s always trying to add things (dog park, rinse station for RV, Tesla charger, port o potty etc.) to improve the experience.
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C
Catriana
1 week ago
25 ft campervan
With pets
This was the perfect pit stop after a day of exploring Mammoth. Kevin was super welcoming and helpful. I felt like I had privacy back behind the garage. And the electric hookup saved me from the heat - so I could run my A/C. Would love to come back!
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D
Dani
1 week ago
21 ft campervan
With kids
Beautiful land! Easy to get to from 65 but feels secluded and part of nature. Kevin was a very friendly host!
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Hillary
1 week ago
16 ft car
Another great stay at the Kilns! Kim is always so kind and responsive.
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J
JoAnne
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
I had a great stay Lightening Bug Landing. Host was very nice and welcoming. Even though the road was close, there is very little traffic after dark. It didn't bother me at all.
I see a deer meander through my campsite, and a turtle had coffee with me in the morning.
They do have a steep driveway, but I made it through just fine with my little car. I would come back again!.
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Kevin
2 weeks 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!
See moreJ
Jessica
2 weeks 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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K
Kevin
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Great place and great people. Very peaceful and secluded.
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I
Ivy
2 weeks ago
With pets
Absolutely perfect! Everyone spent the entire 5 days fishing! Kitchen was well equipped. Puppy dog got to run around freely for the first time. Will definitely be back. We drove 4.5 hrs to get there!
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H
Helen
2 weeks 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
2 weeks 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
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.
