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!

97% (5.6K) 4,608 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Kentucky

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

1. Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

98%
(686)
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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Hones Pointe Campground

2. Hones Pointe Campground

97%
(867)
Campbellsburg, KY · 25 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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Serenity Camp

3. Serenity Camp

98%
(370)
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
Daniel Boone National Forest

4. Daniel Boone National Forest

97%
(33)
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
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Mammoth Cave National Park

5. Mammoth Cave National Park

97%
(83)
National park in Kentucky · 128 sites
Find magic below ground—and above—at Mammoth Cave National Park.
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Camp Goldenrod RRGorge-CaveR Lake

6. Camp Goldenrod RRGorge-CaveR Lake

Wellington, KY · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
ATTRACTIONS: Goldenrod Gap is a peaceful refuge nestled in the mountains of eastern Kentucky, in Menifee County minutes from Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge, Cave Run Lake, Broke Leg Falls Park and the Sheltowee Trace Trail. The sites are newly developed and being added to frequently. As you enter the camp you will cross a bridge and are welcomed by two majestic hillsides onto the 35 acre property. These hills have a variety of trails from rustic to groomed, which are open to foot traffic only. On the trails you will find many species of vegetation and natural resources, which range from easy, moderate to strenuous, distances vary, short hikes take minutes. A few hikes take longer and have more strenuous terrain. There are native trees, which includes Tulip Poplar, (the Kentucky state tree), giant oaks (hundreds of years old), several variety of pine trees, holly, hemlock, beech, ironwood, sassafras, box elder and maple. Take a walk, take pictures and bring a picnic lunch. In the summer there are beautiful flowering goldenrod, and many pollinators and addition forest wildflowers all year. These pollinator magnets definitely lure numerous birds and insects for your viewing pleasure. There are beautiful rock ledges to enjoy as well. CAMPSITES: #1 The RV campsite is easily accessed from the highway and includes water, electricity, septic dump station, shower, restroom and high speed internet. Cross over the bridge, entrance is limited to shorter trailers under 30 feet. Turn left and cross over a small creek and arrive at your site. Park in the designated area. Video surveillance is on site. Two sites are available on a scenic overlook with an outdoor toilet nearby. Site #2 has a furnished Whiteduck 16' bell tent and site #3 is a rustic area and your choice of spot. Stop in after a day on the trails, cliffs or Cave Run lake in the area. Pitch a tent and sleep under a display of stars, especially if you are on the ridgeline. Restaurants 🌮nearby: Miguel's Pizza 🍕https://share.google/ty29ldhpAWkDBHvIM Red River Rockhouse https://share.google/QfHZUKJY0KE0Esa4e Skybridge Station 🌭 https://share.google/5P1PkbYhIWk3llzAV Redpoint Barbeque 🍻 https://share.google/yuiZwwc5ROpkpE8Y4 Find Us: wwwgoldenrodgap.com Facebook goldenrodgap.com
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Patrick's Point River Camp

7. Patrick's Point River Camp

99%
(682)
Williamsburg, KY · 62 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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Camp Escape

8. Camp Escape

95%
(146)
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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Bourbon Trail Campground

9. Bourbon Trail Campground

98%
(88)
Lawrenceburg, KY · 10 sites
Primitive tent camping Portable Toilets Group fire pit Catch and release 1/2 acre stocked pond Perimeter walking creek Indoor Gathering 40×50 metal building Stone fence Epic Kentucky beauty on the Bourbon Trail in Anderson county 7 miles off both I64 and Bluegrass Parkway; directly off US 127.
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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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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.
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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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Toilets
Farm and Forest

14. Farm and Forest

98%
(253)
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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Rockcastle Riverside

15. Rockcastle Riverside

95%
(731)
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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Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

16. Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

99%
(224)
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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Tar Springs 2

17. Tar Springs 2

99%
(46)
Cloverport, KY · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Electrical hookup
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Wow Mountain Resort

18. Wow Mountain Resort

98%
(100)
Somerset, KY · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
We saw this land and immediately thought this is our Eden and now we want to share it with you. We hope you love it too. There is a cave camping site and 4 other active sites. We are adding 5 more campsites very soon. They will be basic bare bone campsites with no tent platforms or fire places. The original 4 have tent platforms and fire places. ***PLEASE TAKE ALL TRASH WITH YOU***
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Away at Green Hill

19. Away at Green Hill

100%
(349)
Union, KY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Warm weather is here — and so welcomed. Winter delivered plenty of snow and brutal cold, but that's behind us. Away is greening up and ready for camping. Away sits at the entry point to western Boone County in Northern Kentucky — neighbor to Cincinnati, Rabbit Hash, and the Ohio River. Our 27 acres mark where rolling farmland gives way to steep, forested hillsides. End-of-the-road and ridgetop, it's private by nature. Campsites are tucked in woods shared with turkey, deer, owls, and woodpeckers. Wander wide strolling paths, single-track hiking trails, open fields, and forest — or settle onto the porch of a historic log home. We're a quieter, acoustic kind of place. Great for travelers passing through or locals needing a quick and beautiful outing. Solo campers, friends, families — newbies or seasoned. Drive-in sites make loading and unloading easy. Amenities: Privacy! We book only two sites at a time, set far apart and wrapped in woods. Also included: an exceptional outhouse, tables, fire rings, lanterns, and a Welcome kit (paper, fatwood, lighter, candle). Firewood available during booking or on arrival. Site 1 – Open Sky — A large field edged by forest. Fits solo or groups, tents to small campers. Extras: hammock, trampoline, badminton & cornhole by request. Closest to the cabin, strolling trails, firewood shed, and outhouse. Site 2 – Gobbler's Knob — Cozier. A small rise surrounded by woods. Short walk to the outhouse and firewood shed. Park on-site or at the entrance, just 50' away. Site 3 – Henry's Holler — By request only. 4WD overlanders exclusively. Read the full site description before requesting. All sites welcome tents, small pop-ups, pull-behind trailers, and hammocks. Curvy, scenic roads lead quickly from the paved world of Union, KY to us — and onward to the Rabbit Hash General Store, the Ohio River, Dinsmore Homestead, Middle Creek Park, Big Bone State Park, and the Creation Museum. Boating, kayaking, biking, hiking, or lazing in tiny riverfront towns, all just minutes away. Do nothing or do something.
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Shasta Valley

20. Shasta Valley

96%
(60)
Frenchburg, KY · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The idea of Shasta Valley came to us through years of traveling in developing countries and falling in love with communal living and camping culture. We are excited to build our dream and share it with you! We currently run this campground at a loss. Between the cost of maintenance and building out the infrastructures, we spend more than we make. Thank you for camping with us and helping us maintain and expand what we have to offer to our beloved camping community. Learn more about this land: We are nestled between cave run lake and the north entrance of Red River Gorge off the beaten path. Enjoy 20 Acres of private forest, creeks, waterfalls, and a giant open hill top great for larger groups. We have hilltop car camping and tent camping on a 3 acre field surrounded by forest. Bring your tents, van, overlanders and small campers (pulled with a 4wd) to Shasta Valley! Hiking: 1.5 Miles to Sheltowee Trace Trail 6 Minutes to Broke Leg Fall 10 Minute to Devils Market House Arch 20 Minutes to Jump Rock, Indian Staircase, Gladie Welcome Center and all the other highlights of the north side of the gorge!
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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