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The best river, stream, or creek camping in Kentucky

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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% (5.8K) 4,808 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Kentucky

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

1. Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

98%
(742)
Williamsburg, KY · 16 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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Hones Pointe Campground

2. Hones Pointe Campground

97%
(911)
Pendleton, 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Patrick's Point River Camp

3. Patrick's Point River Camp

99%
(705)
Williamsburg, KY · 57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Looking for a quiet peaceful camp on 212 acres in the Appalachians Mountains along side the Upper Cumberland River under a canopy of shade trees? We offer WIFI, hot showers, restrooms, kayaks, shuttle service, hiking trail, horse trail, wildlife stands, electric, water, easy access to the river, 130’ x 100’ covered pavilion, tent camping, cabins, RV sites, and much more. Whether you are looking for a unique swimming hole location, a place to go fishing, kayak access, hiking trails or just a quiet place to enjoy your morning cup of coffee, we promise you will not be disappointed. You may wish to lay in a hammock along the river or under our covered 100 x 130 pavilion. We also have a beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy. In addition to our relaxing atmosphere, this camp will also give you and your loved ones an incredible view to enjoy throughout your stay. Only 15.0mi via KY-90W by vehicle or 14mi by kayak to Cumberland Falls State Park with many hiking trails. One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, Patrick homestead-started soon after the Revolutionary War. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply along this river and these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Appalachian and on the bank of the Upper Cumberland River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!
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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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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mammoth Cave National Park

5. Mammoth Cave National Park

97%
(92)
National park in Kentucky · 128 sites
Find magic below ground—and above—at Mammoth Cave National Park.
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Campfires
Rockcastle Riverside

6. Rockcastle Riverside

94%
(752)
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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Camp Escape

7. Camp Escape

96%
(187)
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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Farm and Forest

8. Farm and Forest

98%
(277)
Lexington, KY · 18 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. RULES DO NOT ATTEMPT TO BRING A MOTOTHOME OR PULL A TRAILER LONGER THAN 34' YOU WILL NOT MAKE THE TURN INTO THE ENTRANCE!! Use CAUTION when leaving property. There is a blind hill (dip in the road) on your left. Count to 5 to ensure there is not car in the dip. You may need to pull out a bit to see past a tree, so be ready to back up if you see a car coming. Place trash in the cans at your site or around the property or located by the house inside the metal bin. Leave your campsite clean. Clean up pet waste (including kitty litter) and put it in the trashcan. If you fly a drone, be respectful of others privacy. No Visitors No firearms No fires outside fire rings; Ensure your fire is fully extinguished before leaving Do not bring in firewood - we have some for sale.. Do not go in the barns or in rooms of the house- (only the bathroom if you purchased a bathroom access.) Do not move or remove rocks, artifacts or anything other than trash. Do not change the landscape in any way. Keep dogs on a leash especially if other campers are on the property. Keep an eye on your pets and children at all times.
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Serenity Camp

9. Serenity Camp

98%
(386)
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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Campfires
Full hookups
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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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
Nolin River Lake

12. 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
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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Lost On Purpose

14. Lost On Purpose

96%
(45)
Boston, KY · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
120 acres of secluded paradise!!! Rock hounders welcome to explore the creek beds, no foraging for plants/mushrooms though; and bring your disc golf or archery bows. You will never want to leave! Primitive sites: Hide Away Camp 30 amp hook up 50 amp hookup 1 Br studio cottage 2 bath shower house. Fire pits at each camp.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Handyland

15. Handyland

99%
(63)
KY · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Possum Ridge Ranch

16. Possum Ridge Ranch

100%
(144)
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.
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Full hookups
Camp Middle Fork

17. Camp Middle Fork

99%
(168)
Irvine, KY · 3 sites
Learn more about this land: Come stay at Middle Fork Camp: two acres of grass and eleven acres of wooded hillside overlooking a valley meadow in the Daniel Boone National Forest region. Just forty minutes from the Red River Gorge and past homesite of pioneer settlers, the property features an outdoor kitchen, potable spring water, an outdoor shower, WiFi, and 110V and RV-type electric outlets. There is a yoga deck, picnic table, and wood benches with stone ring fireplaces for your use. Help yourself to vegetables from the veggie patch in season! There are ample hiking and trail running opportunities from the site, starting right behind the (private) A-frame cabin, up and over the limestone cliffs or out the gravel road. I have established hiking/running trail loops to scenic points ranging from 1 - 15 miles in length and will be happy to provide detailed information, including GPS tracks upon request. Enjoy! Note: Camp Middle Fork is a true nature area: in season there are ticks, you may see a snake, and common to this region, there is poison ivy in the woods. If you are sensitive, dress accordingly.
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Campfires
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Twisted River

18. Twisted River

97%
(67)
Scottsville, KY · 1 site
A recent addition to our already spacious and secluded bed and breakfast.  A tremendous wooded area with trails, woods, water and an awesome camping/fire pit area!  If you enjoy watching the stars after a delicious, over the campfire cooked meal, you'll love the sights, sounds and smells of backwoods Kentucky. The land is bordered by a winding, twisting river that is ample enough for bathing, boating and/or fishing that seems to go on for days. Idea for overnight stays, weekend getaways or family or group gatherings.Learn more about this land:A long flowing log trail that travels through gorgeous woods and time then temporarily halts at the centerpiece campsite for fire, food and laughs.   Space around a stone framed fire pit for up to 5 tents to enjoy peace or family at the same time.  Off you continue along a groomed 4 wheel trail that guides you past our deer plot, beaver workings, stretches of wild low lands and a refreshing creek for swimming, fishing, boating, you name it!  The main camp site is about a :15 minute hike off the main road but close enough to receive support if required.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
The Harrican Lakehouse

19. The Harrican Lakehouse

99%
(327)
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 Lakehouse 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
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Campfires
Hidden Valley River Camp

20. Hidden Valley River Camp

99%
(220)
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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