Camping in Kentucky: Best Kentucky Campgrounds 2023

Q: Does Kentucky Kingdom have a campground?

Kentucky Kingdom, an amusement park in Louisville , Kentucky , does not have its own campground. However, there are several campgrounds and RV parks nearby where you can stay while visiting the park. You can explore nearby campgrounds in Kentucky through Hipcamp.

United States
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Kentucky

97% (4946 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Kentucky

Top camping destinations

Mammoth Cave National Park

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

824 campgrounds

Daniel Boone National Forest

1158 campgrounds

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

479 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Kentucky

97%

(571)

Under $50

99%

(94)

Lake View camping

17 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Reynolds Station, Hancock

30 years ago this was a pay lake it has been shut down for years. I got it a few years ago for a family getaway. So there is some really nice fish in the lakes. We have a outside kitchen with a gas grill, gas griddle and sink.we also have a sink for your use. There is also a toilet with a flushing toilet.

Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, Vanderburgh

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. Firewood is included, and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill (charcoal included), picnic tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Pulaski

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, fishing poles, 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 BIG update everyone has been waiting for; the plumbing and electricity are now complete! We have all the ammenities to make your stay comfoetable 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!

Bar on the Mountain

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Beattyville, Lee

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. Campers will enjoy a fire pit with surrounding bench seating, plentiful room for pitching tents and parking for trailers/campers, and of course The Bar - which provides covered seating with 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! Access Hollerwood Offroad Park from site by ATV - no need to haul!

Hones Pointe

25 sites · RVs, Tents47 acres · Pendleton, Trimble

Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers in 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!

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(35)

Bar on the Mountain

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Beattyville, Lee

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. Campers will enjoy a fire pit with surrounding bench seating, plentiful room for pitching tents and parking for trailers/campers, and of course The Bar - which provides covered seating with 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! Access Hollerwood Offroad Park from site by ATV - no need to haul!

Lake View camping

17 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Reynolds Station, Hancock

30 years ago this was a pay lake it has been shut down for years. I got it a few years ago for a family getaway. So there is some really nice fish in the lakes. We have a outside kitchen with a gas grill, gas griddle and sink.we also have a sink for your use. There is also a toilet with a flushing toilet.

Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, Vanderburgh

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. Firewood is included, and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill (charcoal included), picnic tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Pulaski

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, fishing poles, 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 BIG update everyone has been waiting for; the plumbing and electricity are now complete! We have all the ammenities to make your stay comfoetable 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!

Hones Pointe

25 sites · RVs, Tents47 acres · Pendleton, Trimble

Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers in 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!

Available this weekend

95%

(37)

Boone Valley Campground

50 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Beattyville, Lee

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. 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.

Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, Vanderburgh

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. Firewood is included, and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill (charcoal included), picnic tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

Hones Pointe

25 sites · RVs, Tents47 acres · Pendleton, Trimble

Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers in 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!

The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Pulaski

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, fishing poles, 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 BIG update everyone has been waiting for; the plumbing and electricity are now complete! We have all the ammenities to make your stay comfoetable 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!

Bar on the Mountain

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Beattyville, Lee

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. Campers will enjoy a fire pit with surrounding bench seating, plentiful room for pitching tents and parking for trailers/campers, and of course The Bar - which provides covered seating with 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! Access Hollerwood Offroad Park from site by ATV - no need to haul!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

97%

(31)

Daniel Boone National Forest

Whitley City, Kentucky

100%

(37)

Mammoth Cave National Park

Park City, Kentucky

100%

(11)

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

Campton, Kentucky

100%

(5)

Carter Caves State Resort Park

Fountain Run, Kentucky

100%

(4)

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Albany, Kentucky

100%

(3)

Wilderness Road State Park

Ewing, Virginia

100%

(3)

Kenlake State Resort Park

Dexter, Kentucky

100%

(3)

Lake Barkley State Resort Park

Camping in Kentucky guide

Kentucky camping adventures are never boring. Whether you want to saddle up and gallop the bluegrass hills, scale the soaring cliffs of the Red River Gorge, or explore the world’s longest cave system, this southern state provides endless ways to get outdoors. Kentucky’s six national parks and 45 State Parks are brimming with woodlands, waterfalls, and waterways where you can hike, bike, paddle, raft, or even play a game of golf. The natural landscapes are at their most ravishing in spring and fall, but camping is a year-round pastime with RV sites, cottages, and rustic cabins to see you through the winter chill.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Kentucky is an excellent destination for camping, offering a variety of scenic landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, lakes, and rivers. The state is home to numerous state parks, national parks, and private campgrounds that cater to tent campers, RV enthusiasts, and even cabin rentals for a more comfortable experience.

Some popular camping destinations in Kentucky include:

Daniel Boone National Forest
Mammoth Cave National Park
Red River Gorge
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

These locations offer a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, boating, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing, making Kentucky a fantastic choice for camping enthusiasts.

The best month to camp in Kentucky is typically October. During this time, the weather is cooler and more comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F. October also offers stunning fall foliage, making it an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Additionally, you can find numerous camping options in Kentucky, such as hiking campgrounds, forest campgrounds, and river campgrounds.

Yes, boondocking, or dispersed camping, is legal in Kentucky on public lands such as national forests and some wildlife management areas. In Kentucky, you can find boondocking opportunities in the Daniel Boone National Forest, which offers numerous locations for dispersed camping. However, it's essential to follow the rules and regulations set by the land management agency and practice Leave No Trace principles to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. For more developed camping options, you can explore various campgrounds and private lands through Hipcamp.

Kentucky Kingdom, an amusement park in Louisville, Kentucky, does not have its own campground. However, there are several campgrounds and RV parks nearby where you can stay while visiting the park. You can explore nearby campgrounds in Kentucky through Hipcamp.