The best private sites RV campgrounds in Kentucky

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

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.

100% (198)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Harrican Lakehouse

99%

(280)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · KY

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!

2. Away at Green Hill

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(327)

9 sites · Tents, RVs · Union, KY

Fall is finally here. It's so Welcomed - summer was brutal - either 95 degrees/95% humidity or raging storms! So cool temps & beautiful leaves are looking good. NOTE: many weekends are already booked through Oct so get yours booked asap Entry point to western Boone County in Northern Kentucky, neighbor to Cincinnati, Rabbit Hash, Indiana the Ohio River, this 27 acre property marks a geographical change from rolling farmland to steep, forested hillsides. Our end-of-the road, ridgetop property means privacy. Our isolated campsites are surrounded by woods full of turkey, deer, owls, and woodpeckers. Onsite there are wide, easy strolling paths, a growing number of single-track hiking trails, open fields, and forest. And if not booked, a historic log home to explore and do some porch sitting. A great place for solo campers, friends, and families, whether newbies or experienced. Drive-in sites make unloading/loading easy peasey. Standard amenities include privacy - we only book two sites at any time, which are far apart from each other and surrounded by woods. Also, an exceptional outhouse, tables, fire rings, lanterns, Welcome kit (paper, fatwood, lighter, candle). And onsite firewood purchased during booking or while onsite. Site 1 - Open Sky accommodates solo or the group, tents to small campers. It comes with extra amenities: hammock, trampoline, (badminton & cornhole by request). It's also closest to the cabin, strolling trails, firewood shed, outhouse. Site 2 - Gobbler's Knob is a more cozy space - a small rise surrounded by forest. A short walk from the outhouse and firewood shed. It can accommodate pop-ups, small pull-behinds, tents, hammocks. Vehicles can park on site or park at site entrance, just 50'. Site 3 - Henry's Holler. By request only. For 4WD overlanders only. Read site description in full before requesting. Boating, kayaking, biking, hiking, or lazing about in tiny riverfront towns minutes away, The curvy, scenic roads lead quickly out of the paved civilization of Union, Kentucky to us and onto the Rabbit Hash General Store, the Ohio River,, historic Dinsmore Homestead and State Nature Preserve, Middle Creek Park, and Big Bone State Park "Home to Modern Vertebrate Paleontology" or the Creation Museum. Do nothing or do something.

3. Handyland

100%

(48)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · KY

Handyland is tucked away in the rolling hills and valleys of Northern Kentucky. We're conveniently located near the Ark Encounter, the Kentucky Speedway and of course the Bourbon Trail. If you're looking for a perfect getaway...bring your camper / rv or simply a tent and unwind with the surrounding beauty.

4. Lost On Purpose

98%

(24)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · KY

Secluded 2br 1 bath private and quiet, not a neighbor in sight! We have hiking, biking and horse trails galore. Fishing in the pond is permitted with a barbless hook and catch n release! Rock hounders welcome to explore the creek beds, and bring your disc golf or archery bows- we have that too! You will never want to leave!

5. Possum Ridge Ranch

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(115)

18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · West Liberty, KY

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

6. Furnace mountain primitive camping

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(12)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Stanton, KY

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

7. LockRidge Park

80%

(5)

14 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lancaster, KY

LockRidge is a unique park that offers a range of overnight stay options, including tube rooms, underground rooms, silo rooms, container rooms, RV spots, Conestoga wagon rooms, and more. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the lake and cedar trees, and witness beautiful sunsets. With a peaceful and tranquil environment, LockRidge is the perfect place for nature lovers to escape and unwind. Additionally, LockRidge features a wedding barn with a Rick house theme, providing a unique and rustic venue for your special day.

8. Tar Springs 2

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(32)

13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cloverport, KY

Historic property once a health resort in the 1840's, lodging rooms available, men's and women's restrooms and showers, lockers, kitchenette, optional breakfast, private 16 acre lake, fishing and boats available, dock, natural springs and rock formations enclose the valley, hiking, camping sites and primitive camping available. Original property was considered for a training camp facility for Mohammed Ali. For your safety, no arrivals after dark.

9. The Hickory Chicken

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(5)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bardwell, KY

Welcome to The Hickory Chicken — Hard to find, worth the search! Tucked away in the peaceful countryside, The Hickory Chicken is your ideal escape for outdoor fun, family bonding, and Southern charm. Named after the beloved "hickory chicken" — a local nickname for the elusive and tasty wild morel mushroom — our campsite captures that same spirit of hidden treasure and down-home discovery. At The Hickory Chicken, you'll find full access RV sites perfect for weekend warriors or long-haul adventurers, plus cozy cabin rentals if you're looking to rough it just a little less. Spend your days casting a line at our well-stocked fishing spots, cooling off with a stroll through the creek, or cooking up something special in our outdoor kitchen space. Whether you're into s'mores or smoked brisket, we’ve got you covered. Outdoor lovers will find plenty to enjoy — and hunters especially will appreciate the area's abundant wildlife and public hunting grounds. We're also just minutes from both the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, offering scenic views and endless recreational opportunities. History buffs and trail enthusiasts will love being a stone’s throw from Columbus-Belmont State Park and Wright’s Area 252 Ride Park. Working nearby? The Hickory Chicken is a short, easy drive from the Four Rivers Nuclear Plant, Phoenix Paper Mill and James Marine Wickliffe division — making it the perfect home base whether you’re here for business or pleasure. So pack your boots, your bike, or just a cooler full of snacks. However you like to camp, The Hickory Chicken is ready to welcome you with open arms.

10. Sticky Wicket Farms

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(8)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lancaster, KY

South of Lexington, in the heart of the Bluegrass, our little farm is making a big impact on our community. We raise chickens for eggs and meat, sheep for lamb meat, occasionally turkeys and a wide variety of produce and berries, along with bees for honey. Our peacocks are here for pure pleasure, but we do pick up feathers and design crafts with them from time to time. Whether we're planting seeds, gathering eggs, or rounding up sheep, there's always something happening on the farm. Close by there's lots to do: golfing, fishing, boating, hiking, birding or touring the bourbon trail.

11. Pine horse farm

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(15)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Hodgenville, KY

A working horse farm with some wooded areas and lots of spots to pitch a tent or hammock. We have a friendly dog, 2 mini highland cows and currently 3 horses! We are on 20 acres. We are constantly improving our land and are expanding our horse boarding as we do so. Close to Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace , Mcdougal Lake and the main square in Hodgenville which has cute little restaurants and places to walk During summer there are lots of wild blackberries to pick on the perimeter of the pasture (this is usually June-July only). We are bordered on woods so camping can be done in the trees as well or in our nice open area right as soon as you come up the drive. Outside our barn/house we have water and electric outlets as needed. In the open area or the woods there are several trees that can be used for a hammock as well. We do have a large fire pit near our house and a ton of wood fires can be started as long as we are not under a burn ban if we are having a dry summer or fall. In our camping field we have a smaller black fire pit for use . The pastures are set back from the woods so feel free to walk the perimeter of them. We do have 2 farm dogs that are super friendly and gentle. If you have an RV it’s easier to enter into the 1575 entrance and pull through

12. Flying D Ranch

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(12)

5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Murray, KY

Rand McNally and USA Today have awarded Murray the title of “Friendliest Small Town in America." The award comes from the organizations' Best of the Road contest. RARE ONE OF A KIND space situated on over 26 beautifully manicured acres. Many unique features. a 50 amp, 30 amp and 110 RV hookup available. 2 stocked fishing ponds. Fabulous 50,000 gallon custom saltwater swimming pool accompanied by a spacious ranch style pavilion with outdoor kitchen and full bath. Fiber Optics internet , Smart television, Acres to choose a tent site, all mowed grass with trees for shade. Bass, catfish and blue gill abound. Bald Eagle and Osprey sightings. Red Tail and Red Shoulder hawks everywhere. Lessor Canadian Geese with families make the ponds home. Deer and turkey join us every day. Hiking path around both ponds and down past the pastures. Pool sits atop a hill to catch the breeze. Located a quarter mile away from the road for private and serene camping. Check in time is noon and check out is noon also. Located just 7 miles away from Murray State University. Corn fields, Soy beans and Tobacco fields are the main topographical features. 20 miles to Land Between the Lakes, 27 miles to Paris Landing, 18 miles to Mayfield.

13. Firefly Hills RV and Glamping Park

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16 sites · RVs, Lodging · Beattyville, KY

Located in Beattyville, Kentucky, Firefly Hills is a brand-new RV park near the Red River Gorge. We offer 15 full hook-up RV sites, RV rentals, and bedroom rentals in our beautiful farmhouse. Our RV park is committed to providing a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore the great outdoors, experience homesteading skills, and foster a community atmosphere. We offer family friendly camping with several natural play spaces. Explore the birthplace of the Kentucky River, Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge State Park, Daniel Boone National Park, and more. We are just a short trip from Lexington, KY, Cincinnati, OH, Knoxville, TN, and Louisville, KY. There are many activities to do nearby in the Red River Gorge including hiking, rock climbing, underground kayaking, zipling, and enjoying the many great farm to table restaurants. Together, we strive to build an inclusive space where all people feel welcome and safe to enjoy the outdoors regardless of gender identity, age, race, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, ethnicity, language or religion. We value the diversity and unique perspectives each of us offers, as it enhances the richness of our world.

14. Mountainfire!

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(35)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · London, KY

This area is an old tobacco and cattle farm on a point above Laurel Lake. We do a bit of farming and crafting when we can and thought we’d try and share our lovely spot! Much of the timber on the place is nearly 100 years old hardwoods, with a couple of fields throughout. I camp here myself too, and can recommend it for privacy! Learn more about this land: You can park an RV or trailer on these private sites within a 10min drive or short walk to Laurel Lake! Gravel roads to a field capable of holding up to two trailers with more planned in time! Primitive sites, Quiet n private. These sites are also within 10 mi of both London and Corbin Ky, with services available at both. Scenic Cumberland Falls is a short 25 min drive, and this place is adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest with plenty of hiking nearby.

15. Family Farm Experience

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(26)

9 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallingford, KY

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

16. Wilson Creek Farm

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(20)

3 sites · RVs · Glasgow, KY

We are a working cattle farm on 33 acres with rolling pastures and peaceful wooded areas to enjoy. Hike down to Wilson Creek to search for geodes and explore the woods. Sit a spell by the creek side fire pit. Try fishing, swimming and boating at Barren River Lake, just a short drive from the property. Mammoth Cave, Kentucky Down Under and the Corvette Museum are all within 30 min. With two RV sites we can accommodate rigs up to 45' and provide 20/30/50 amp service, water and have full sewer hookups. Needing tent space as well? Reach out and we can see how we can accommodate. follow us on Instagram at wilson.creek.farm

17. Morning View Farms

100%

(5)

13 sites · Tents, RVs · Scottsville, KY

Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent down by the creek or up in the cedar wood thicket or up on top of a hill overlooking a beautiful country landscape. This is a working cattle farm. We also have a tiny house that can be rented for additional cost. It can house 2 people complete with an outside Shower. Cozy sitting area, with tv inside or cozy sitting outside by the campfire. For those with an RV, you can either park up on loose gravel drive with a short walk down to the creek and woods. Or iwith weather permitting, you can drive out into the fields and park by the creek or woods. Horseback riding and lessons are also available.

Camper favorites in Kentucky

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Firefly Hills RV and Glamping Park

100%

(6)

16 sites · RVs, Lodging · Beattyville, KY

Located in Beattyville, Kentucky, Firefly Hills is a brand-new RV park near the Red River Gorge. We offer 15 full hook-up RV sites, RV rentals, and bedroom rentals in our beautiful farmhouse. Our RV park is committed to providing a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore the great outdoors, experience homesteading skills, and foster a community atmosphere. We offer family friendly camping with several natural play spaces. Explore the birthplace of the Kentucky River, Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge State Park, Daniel Boone National Park, and more. We are just a short trip from Lexington, KY, Cincinnati, OH, Knoxville, TN, and Louisville, KY. There are many activities to do nearby in the Red River Gorge including hiking, rock climbing, underground kayaking, zipling, and enjoying the many great farm to table restaurants. Together, we strive to build an inclusive space where all people feel welcome and safe to enjoy the outdoors regardless of gender identity, age, race, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, ethnicity, language or religion. We value the diversity and unique perspectives each of us offers, as it enhances the richness of our world.

Mountainfire!

100%

(35)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · London, KY

This area is an old tobacco and cattle farm on a point above Laurel Lake. We do a bit of farming and crafting when we can and thought we’d try and share our lovely spot! Much of the timber on the place is nearly 100 years old hardwoods, with a couple of fields throughout. I camp here myself too, and can recommend it for privacy! Learn more about this land: You can park an RV or trailer on these private sites within a 10min drive or short walk to Laurel Lake! Gravel roads to a field capable of holding up to two trailers with more planned in time! Primitive sites, Quiet n private. These sites are also within 10 mi of both London and Corbin Ky, with services available at both. Scenic Cumberland Falls is a short 25 min drive, and this place is adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest with plenty of hiking nearby.

Family Farm Experience

98%

(26)

9 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallingford, KY

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

Wilson Creek Farm

100%

(20)

3 sites · RVs · Glasgow, KY

We are a working cattle farm on 33 acres with rolling pastures and peaceful wooded areas to enjoy. Hike down to Wilson Creek to search for geodes and explore the woods. Sit a spell by the creek side fire pit. Try fishing, swimming and boating at Barren River Lake, just a short drive from the property. Mammoth Cave, Kentucky Down Under and the Corvette Museum are all within 30 min. With two RV sites we can accommodate rigs up to 45' and provide 20/30/50 amp service, water and have full sewer hookups. Needing tent space as well? Reach out and we can see how we can accommodate. follow us on Instagram at wilson.creek.farm

Morning View Farms

100%

(5)

13 sites · Tents, RVs · Scottsville, KY

Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent down by the creek or up in the cedar wood thicket or up on top of a hill overlooking a beautiful country landscape. This is a working cattle farm. We also have a tiny house that can be rented for additional cost. It can house 2 people complete with an outside Shower. Cozy sitting area, with tv inside or cozy sitting outside by the campfire. For those with an RV, you can either park up on loose gravel drive with a short walk down to the creek and woods. Or iwith weather permitting, you can drive out into the fields and park by the creek or woods. Horseback riding and lessons are also available.

Stories from the community

Katie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Handyland

Josh’s land had absolutely beautiful views, and was so well maintained! There were great amenities available that helped our whole group to be comfortable. We would love to come again!

M

Marie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

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

A

Andrew

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Away at Green Hill

Always the best host and always my first option when I want to use Hipcamp.

Camping Spot next to an old Tobacco Barn

Thane

3 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

3 nights at Sticky Wicket Farms

Staying at Sticky Wicket Farms was a great experience in no small part due to the wonderful host Leslie. We opted for the quiche and cinammon rolls and both were homemade, hot and delicious. Having full hook-ups was very convenient. We really enjoyed walking the drive and seeing the animals. Thank you, Leslie!!

J

Jonathan

3 weeks ago

35 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Pine horse farm

This spot was great! Allison was very welcoming and communicated super fast. Got to see the horses and mini cows. Kids loved it.

Katie

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Handyland

Second time here and we had a blast! It’s the perfect camping spot. We’ll be back soon!

A

Ashley

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at The Harrican Lakehouse

I loved staying at this site and Bridgett was such a good host! I originally went to car camp for a few days and unfortunately it rained the first 2 days, Bridgett offered me to switch to the cabin and I was beyond grateful! Instead of being stuck inside my car all day I was able to enjoy the cabin by the lake, it was so cozy and I got to watch the rain on the lake from the covered porch, which was just magical. Despite the rain I had a great time and the property is beautiful! Bridgett is a great host and went above and beyond for my stay here.

A

Amanda

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountainfire!

Gavin was quick to respond and very helpful. This was our first time using the app to book a place. The spot was clean and very private.

L

Leslie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lost On Purpose

Beautiful & peaceful with very nice bathrooms & shower.

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountainfire!

Gavin was a spectacular host, so kind and friendly, and his property was stunning. We are so grateful to have spent time there as a family and look forward to visiting again soon!

E

Eric

October 2025

23 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Handyland

After a miserable run south from Pittsburgh this was a welcome respite before a day at the Ark Encounter.

C

Chris

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

1 night at Wilson Creek Farm

This is a fabulous property and an equally fabulous host. I thoroughly enjoyed the pasture view site as well as all the deer having breakfast in the pasture.

J

James

October 2025

17 ft campervan

1 night at LockRidge Park

Great place for overnight stop. Also you can tell they care about the place a lot. Would probably even be a good place for a little wedding

B

Brad

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

Liz is a wonderful host with a beautiful place to stay. The facilities were very clean and well maintained and the the entire experience our group had was above and beyond the highest expectations anyone would have. Thanks Liz

T

Tracee

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Mountainfire!

Feeling safe is number one priority of a single camper. This family did that and more. For a first-time car camper I had a wonderful experience. Looking forward to coming back.

Brooke

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

Possum Ridge Ranch is amazing. We camped at Oak Ridge and loved the site. We also explored a bit and walked down to Little Falls which was beautiful. Liz was very nice. The bath houses are clean and a nice surprise while camping. Would definitely recommend and camp here again.

F

Franklin

October 2025

20 ft campervan

3 nights at Furnace mountain primitive camping

I picked this spot to camp because of the proximity to Mount Sterling Court days. Perfect spot for tent or teardrop dispersed camping. Tim and Rhonda were very helpful. Met several neighbors and acquaintances during Saturday's campfire and they're just all good people. I'm inclined to think that I'm going to make this an annual sojourn. It was more like visiting friends than a campground.

S

Savanah

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

We had a wonderful time! Liz is super sweet and their space is absolutely beautiful!

S

Sarah

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Handyland

We had a wonderful stay at Handyland. Josh was such a gracious host. Absolutely gorgeous property. Peaceful, secluded. Wonderful place for those traveling with kids.

W

William

October 2025

21 ft campervan

1 night at Handyland

Josh was a great host, very helpful and accommodating. Great spot!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best private sites RV camping in Kentucky 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.