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Riverside Camping

The best river, stream, or creek camping in Kentucky

Name: Kentucky
Address: Kentucky
Rating: 4.7965

Looking to camp by the river in Kentucky? Look no further than Hones Pointe (352 reviews), Patrick's Point River Camp (263 reviews), and Rockcastle Riverside (225 reviews). With popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly sites, and campfires allowed, you'll have everything you need for a great camping experience. Plus, enjoy activities like swimming, exploring historic sites, and biking in the beautiful Kentucky wilderness. And with average prices starting at just $30 per night and options as low as $5, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your gear and get ready for a riverside adventure!

96% (5.7K) • 4,796 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Kentucky

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

1. Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

98%

(711)

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.

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Toilets

Full hookups

Hones Pointe Campground

2. Hones Pointe Campground

97%

(896)

Campbellsburg, KY · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers so we could enjoy a unique natural setting. Over the years, we have planted many different varieties of trees and perennials to observe. Also evidence exists of this area being an Indian camp long ago as suggested by arrowheads and an old handmade rock wall. Primitive camping where you can pick your own scenic spot. We will furnish picnic table, fire ring, garbage can, and charcoal grill during your campout. Welcome!

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Electrical hookup

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Camp Escape

3. Camp Escape

96%

(166)

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! 🌲🏕️

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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

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Mammoth Cave National Park

5. Mammoth Cave National Park

97%

(88)

National park in Kentucky · 128 sites

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

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Blissful Bluegrass Oasis

6. Blissful Bluegrass Oasis

Boston, KY · 1 site

This memorable place is anything but ordinary. Come enjoy a glamping experience on Johnson Lake, a private 18 acre lake, with great fishing and water activities including kayaks and a Jon boat! The cabin has A/C with 2 bedrooms, queen bed and bunk beds. PSA: There is no running water in the in the cabin meaning there is no bathroom. A port-a-potty is on site. This is a NO SWIMMING LAKE. NEW PHOTOS COMING SOON. Outdoor shower house and restroom coming soon (2025)!

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Rockcastle Riverside

7. Rockcastle Riverside

94%

(748)

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!

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Serenity Camp

8. Serenity Camp

98%

(381)

Beattyville, KY · 26 sites · Tents, RVs

I moved back here a few years ago to my home place where I grew up.  To me it is the most relaxing thing I can do to just sit by a bonfire and look at the view.

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Full hookups

The Harrican Lakehouse

9. The Harrican Lakehouse

99%

(318)

KY · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

There is a lot of history in this land. It's been in my family for over a hundred years. They worked the land with their hands and so have I. It's a special place. Come see for your yourself and be our guest at The Harrican! Learn more about this land: Unplug and unwind at this two story cabin built right on the water in the heart of the Kentucky Wildlands! Even though there is complete peaceful seclusion it does get a little noisy when the bullfrogs start their evening ritual. There is a dock and pier perfect for fishing or swimming. Firepit, grill with gas provided, two boats, lots of seating on the wrap around porch, two bedrooms; one with a queen bed and the other with two twin beds and just lots of natural beauty and peace! The Harrican Lalehouse provides all the ammenities to make your stay comfortable and relaxing! Early and late check in and check out options available when availability exists the day before or after your booked stay. Thank you for interest in the Harrican Lakehouse!

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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.

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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.

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Electrical hookup

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Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

12. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

100%

(4)

State park in Kentucky · 151 sites

Get your game on! This park is perfect for people who love to play.

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Wilderness Road State Park

13. Wilderness Road State Park

100%

(3)

State park in Virginia · 1 site

Discover the historic charm and outdoor adventures at Wilderness Road State Park.

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The Art Farm

14. The Art Farm

97%

(222)

Paducah, KY · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides. Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings. Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive) We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all. Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations. LGBTQ friendly. :)

Electrical hookup

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Campfires

A Notch Above-RV Riverside Campsite

15. A Notch Above-RV Riverside Campsite

98%

(94)

Patriot, IN · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

If you enjoy camping right on the banks of a major river (Ohio), this may be the place for you! Relax on the riverside with a campfire and one of the best river views on the entire Ohio River! You can even throw in a fishing line if you want!

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Full hookups

Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

16. Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

89%

(35)

Stanton, KY · 15 sites · RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Red River Gorge Glamping Resort, a boutique woodland retreat tucked into 13 acres of forest, meadows, and starlit sky in the Appalachian foothills. Designed for slow mornings, campfire nights, and meaningful connection, our property blends rustic charm with thoughtful comforts across canvas bell tents, cozy cabins, and RV-friendly sites. Wake up to birdsong drifting through the trees, sip coffee while mist rises from the hills, and wander the network of footpaths that connect each lodging to the communal fire pit, outdoor gathering meadow, and our modern bathhouse with hot showers and clean restrooms. A brand-new shared hot tub sits in the center of the meadow—perfect for warming up after a winter hike or unwinding under a canopy of stars. Every space is crafted to feel inviting and soulful: warm lighting, soft bedding, rugs underfoot, heaters and electric blankets in the tents, and special touches like complimentary s’mores kits for campfire nights. Cabins offer added privacy, wooded decks, lofted sleeping spaces, and peaceful views of the surrounding hills and horse pastures. Located just 25 minutes from Natural Bridge State Park and minutes from iconic Red River Gorge trails, climbing crags, and scenic overlooks, this is an ideal basecamp for adventure—whether you’re here to hike, climb, explore, meditate, write, or simply breathe. At night, gather under the stars, soak in the hot tub, or settle into the quiet stillness that defines life in the Gorge. In the morning, wander to our open meadow for sunrise views, stretch out with yoga, or stroll the property’s paths with a cup of something warm. We are a work in progress—intentionally. New features, artistic touches, and community spaces are always unfolding as we slowly shape this land into a woodland sanctuary for travelers, dreamers, families, and nature lovers alike. Come reconnect with yourself, with each other, and with the natural world. Your spot by the fire is waiting.

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Full hookups

Tar Springs 2

17. Tar Springs 2

99%

(51)

Cloverport, KY · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Historic property was once a health resort in the 1840's. 3 Lodging rooms are available. Men’s and women's restrooms and showers, lockers, kitchenette, optional breakfast, on a private 18 acre lake, fishing and boats available, dock, natural springs and rock formations enclose the valley. Swimming, hiking, camping sites and primitive camping available. NO ROCK CLIMBING. Original property was considered for a training camp facility for Mohammed Ali. For your safety and ours, no arrivals after dark.

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Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

18. Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

99%

(237)

Lawrenceburg, KY · 5 sites

Our farm is located on the property where the ferry brought individuals across the KY River from Versailles, KY. We are a private farm and live here for the pleasure of the land, the quiet from the city, and the outdoor activities. We want to share this with our guests. Learn more about this land: Come and enjoy bourbon country on the Kentucky River. We are located next door to the Wild Turkey Distillery, and within miles of a few others. Our 35-acre property offers immediate access to the KY River, and is within 5 minutes of an extremely quaint downtown area, should you decide to go to town for a meal. Plenty of restaurants for your choosing! 7 minutes away is a Walmart should you forget anything.  Come and relax in our peaceful surroundings. Horses, goats, chickens, mini mules, and mini horses on site and loving attention. Bring your frisbees, cornhole, and yard games.

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Farm and Forest

19. Farm and Forest

98%

(272)

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.

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Full hookups

Hidden Valley River Camp

20. Hidden Valley River Camp

99%

(217)

Westport, KY · 4 sites

Beautiful valley on the Ohio River with 300 feet of beach front, private boat dock, covered 20x30 community pavilion and a large fire pit. A beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy. Learn more about this land: Beautiful private Valley setting on the Ohio River with private boat dock. Creek bed with rocks and fossils. 2 covered pavillions and fire pit and eagles and wildlife There is a mile gravel road and steep hill is why no rv's. Cars and trucks have no problems. Children MUST be supervised by an adult and MUST wear life jackets while swimming and near the water also MUST wear shoes on the beach and while in the water.

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jenn

3 days ago

32 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Savvy Retreat

This was our very first experience with hipcamp and it was a fantastic one. Cristhian and Christy had everything perfectly set up and provided all you need for a great peaceful camping trip.... Well as peaceful as you can get with 3 boys and 3 good lol😜. Would definitely recommend and will definitely come back if ever in the area. Thank you again for a great experience.

Aerial view of campsite number one with mowed grass entrance.

Jan

5 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Escape

Beautiful property. Secluded sites, well groomed, and easily accessible. Instructions were very clear and easy to follow, and the owner is very responsive, and helpful.

Missy

1 week ago

16 ft car

1 night at Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

Great spot. Stopped in for the night. Amber was so friendly and helpful. Beautiful property.

Aerial view of the 5 acre camping field from the back looking toward the entrance.

Shaakira

1 week ago

Tent

4 nights at Camp Escape

I enjoyed camping on a beautiful private property that was well groomed. It was super peaceful and felt safe. It did rain and storm a lot, with no flooding issues, so I think that brought a ton of mosquitoes. I would recommend bringing natural mosquito repellent . I would definitely camp here again!

Aerial view of campsite number three at the very back of 5 acre field. The property borders Jefferson County Memorial Forest city park directly behind

Robin

1 week ago

15 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Camp Escape

The site was private and very pretty. The pictures probably don't do it justice, but there's not a whole lot more to photograph - just pretty green grass and trees - which is far from a complaint. You can't photograph peace and serenity. The check-in and out was easy. Train tracks are right there, but we only saw/heard one train. Our stay was not impacted at all so don't let that deter you. We would visit again. One tip - the address doesn't take you right there, but the directions in the listing are good. Look out for the railroad tracks and the red gate.

Jason

1 week ago

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Camp Escape

Great stay!!! Quiet and peaceful, and great upkeep!!

James

1 week ago

16 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Camp Escape

Had a great peaceful stay and we enjoyed the beautiful area. Very well maintained and private. Thanks again.

Alexis

1 week ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

Such a perfect place to camp , Amber was super friendly & helpful. Added the cow experience and Amber was very informative about everything ! Such a great time , quiet & peaceful. If I ever make it back this way , will be my go to every time to camp!

Roslyn

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Hones Pointe Campground

This is such a cute place. Each camp site has its own theme and characteristics, so you can pick what fits your needs best. We had it almost to ourselves, so we really enjoyed a nice shady spot, and cooling off in the river. I would love to come back with a group sometime to take advantage of volleyball nets and pavilion

Christopher

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Hidden Valley River Camp

Great spot for fishing and watching the boats go by. My son and I had a great time and can’t wait to come back. Host were easy to get in touch with and very responsive.

Logan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Hones Pointe Campground

Absolutely plan on going back! The water was perfect for the kids, the games and hillbilly hot tub that were right by our site were a huge hit with the kids. Great place!

Chris

2 weeks ago

1 night at Shasta Valley

The land is fun to explore and situated very close to the red river gorge. Samantha is very friendly and accommodating.

Joshua

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

1 night at Handyland

Beautiful property. Josh met me out front and told me a little history about the family farm, and was very friendly. 50 amp electric at site, very secluded, and a fantastic view! I will be back!

Laura

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

This part of the woods was seriously gorgeous and special. Very secluded and absolutely beautiful at sunset. We enjoyed the rushing river sounds and the firefly’s. Super clean port-a-potties and shower house available.

Dawn

2 weeks ago

40 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Savvy Retreat

Great little place!! Quiet and private.. owners thought of everything someone may need for a short stay! Owners very responsive!

Aerial view of campsite number two with mowed grass entrance. This site is the closest to the bathroom and creek entrance.

Ellise

2 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

4 nights at Camp Escape

The area is super cute! Directions were clear and Shelby was a very communicative and accommodating host.

Olivia

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

Such a beautiful quiet farm perfect for solo Travelers. Keven was so nice and welcoming when I arrived - would definitely go out of my way to stay here again! Thanks so much!!

Abigail

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kentucky River Hideaway (Near RRG)

Great spot to camp for some good views and privacy. Spent two nights here it was so peaceful! Johnathan is a great host and is very helpful!!! Definitely recommend:)

Brenda

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

We loved camping at Keven's! He is such a wonderful host 😊 The animals were very entertaining. It was so relaxing. We'll go back for sure 😊

Kaitlyn

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hones Pointe Campground

We had such a great time at Hones Pointe! We initially were going to stay only one night but decided last minute to extend our stay! The grounds are very well maintained, but a bit of a warning- if it rains while you’re there you will get muddy! The kids had more fun in the mud than anything else though 😂