The best romantic 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.

99% (1.1K)

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.

99% (1.1K)

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. Camp Escape

95%

(121)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Louisville, KY

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! 🌲🏕️

3. The Art Farm

98%

(201)

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

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. :)

4. Away at Green Hill

100%

(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.

5. Two Mile Glamping

97%

(283)

9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Winchester, KY

My husband, Jason and I would love to host you on our farm in Winchester Ky! We have 4 themed campers and 1 primitive tent site. Two things we can promise are inexpensive prices and a unique experience! Come visit the home of Kentucky’s soft drink-ALE81! Only 35 miles from Natural Bridge/Red River Gorge, 25 miles to Buc-ee’s, and 12 miles to Fort Boonesborough State Park.

6. 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.

7. Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!

100%

(29)

6 sites · Lodging · Germantown, KY

EarthJOY Village is a magical, family- and nature‑oriented retreat nestled on a 285-acre privately fenced farm in Brooksville, KY (near Germantown), combining whimsical tree‑house stays, forest adventure, and event space. Here's a picturesque snapshot of what makes it unique: --- 🏡 Unique Accommodations Pete Treehouse – Designed by tree‑house expert Pete Nelson (of The Kentucky Climber’s Cottage fame), this original cabin features a hammock lounge, a cozy loft with a king bed and hammocks, an indoor movie theatre, and rustic charm. Sleeps up to 6 (2 adults + kids). Aliyah Treehouse – Built in 2016, it's the tallest treehouse on the property. Highlights include a living‑room tree, swinging bridge, interior/exterior swings, and hammocks. Perfect for families with older children; sleeps up to 6. Hickory Treehouse – Crafted by local artisans from family‑inspired carpentry, it’s designed for younger kids and features slides, swings, a slack‑line, climbing nets/walls, and hammocks. Sleeps up to 6. Love Bus “Schoolie” Skoolie – A quirky, converted school‑bus lodging with hot tub, outdoor movie theatre setup, fridge and simple amenities. A cozy retreat for couples or small families. Sleeps 2 adults + 2 kids. --- 🌲 Trails & Outdoor Adventure Twenty‑plus miles of themed trails wind through forests, creeks, ponds, and features like hobbit‑houses, heart trails, cabins and hidden spots. Great for hiking, biking, creek‑walking, and exploration. Guided tree‑climbing sessions led by professionals add excitement—climb into the canopy safely while learning about nature. --- ⚙️ Amenities & Facilities Composting toilets near each treehouse (5-second walk); private bathroom/shower about 3–5 minutes away next to the farmhouse. Electricity is provided for lights, phone charging, and coffee maker, but there's no Wi‑Fi—cell service (Verizon/AT&T) generally works well. Kitchenettes come with mini‑fridge, stove, basic cookware, dishes, coffee maker, and freshwater tanks/refill station. Pet‑friendly environment (up to 2 dogs per stay, $50 fee each).

8. Backwoods Hideaway

100%

(29)

1 site · Lodging · Morehead, KY

This is a camping cabin, in the middle of the Daniel Boone National Forest. We are about 85 acres, surrounded by hundreds of acres of national Forest. We are located about 2 minutes from the Sheltowee Trail, and approximately 30 minutes away from Cave Run Lake, and about 30 minutes from Carter Caves State Park. This is a cabin with comfort. You can camp and also enjoy nature. The cabin is off grid, but has a generator for heat and Air conditioning. The outside toilet is close to the cabin and has a "Wash up" area. There is also an outdoor shower on the property just a short walk away, that features hot water. Everything you need to enjoy camping and hiking with a bit of comfort!

9. Lake View camping

98%

(147)

20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Reynolds Station, KY

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

10. Red River Rewind- Hey Jude

100%

(8)

2 sites · Lodging · Stanton, KY

Red River Rewind is a small glamping community that is themed off of the owner’s passion for different genre music, vintage, antique history and memorabilia. Currently still a work in progress, we offer a customized bell tent which sits on a 20 x 30 platform deck, with a customized, insulated, fully functioning outhouse which has a shower, commode, and sink that allows endless hot water. “Elvira” is our cozy small cabin. Both have electricity, and water, and full bathroom accessibility at their own site. “Hey Jude” also offers a small wood burning stove to accommodate for cooler temperatures with an Eden pure heater, and fans for warmer weather days, and mobile AC. ELVIRA has a window AC unit and heating with small unit. The customized fully furnished bathroom just steps away from the tent, offers endless hot water. There is also a water spicket just a few steps away from the deck. Note that should the wood stove want to be used, guests need to supply their own SMALL pieces of wood as it is a miniature fireplace. The cabin will be designed with a mini split heating and air system, in the future. WiFi is not currently available though an amenity that is upcoming in the very near future, fiber internet being installed mid July 2025. Cell phone access is good in our area typically. Red River Rewind has common shared amenities to include: a 3/4 acre fully stocked pond which is available for simply viewing its beauty as the fountain flows, or catch and release fishing as seasonally available, many family and friend oriented activities to choose from to check out and return such as cornhole, large checkers, and many more. As time and weather permits, we plan to expand with really neat projects and extras in upcoming months, and would love to have visitors passing through our beautiful area who need or want a place to stay or locals who just want a little change of scenery. We are simple, ordinary people who just want to share some of the things we love about life with others. On a clear note, there are beautiful images of the stars here. You will also have accessibility to a telescope.

11. Trace Space KY

100%

(20)

1 site · Lodging · Wellington, KY

Ready to share your passion for an eco-friendly tiny camping cabin near Cave Run Lake and the Red River Gorge with someone who shares your love of sustainability and nature, too? This transforming aframe cabin is perfect for nature lovers, campers, and eco-conscious explorers eager to learn, see, and stay, leaving a wildlife-friendly footprint. The tiny cabin is a unique transforming A-frame camping cabin that occupies a compact area, certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a wildlife habitat yard and recognized as a certified garden and monarch waystation through monarchwatch.org. TSKY is located 3 miles from Long Bow boat dock on Cave Run Lake, 10 minutes from the Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail, and 18 miles from the adventures in the Red River Gorge. Outdoor seekers and enthusiasts will appreciate the nature trails, the lake's pristine waters, and the opportunity to explore the Daniel Boone National Forest or to simply rest and unplug. There are short hikes within a 20-minute drive, each offering its own unique discovery: arches, an overlook, a cave, and a 60-foot waterfall nestled within a small scenic canyon. With so much natural beauty to explore, your stay at our A-frame camping cabin is a perfect base place to Embrace Nature's Pace.

Camper favorites in Kentucky

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!

100%

(29)

6 sites · Lodging · Germantown, KY

EarthJOY Village is a magical, family- and nature‑oriented retreat nestled on a 285-acre privately fenced farm in Brooksville, KY (near Germantown), combining whimsical tree‑house stays, forest adventure, and event space. Here's a picturesque snapshot of what makes it unique: --- 🏡 Unique Accommodations Pete Treehouse – Designed by tree‑house expert Pete Nelson (of The Kentucky Climber’s Cottage fame), this original cabin features a hammock lounge, a cozy loft with a king bed and hammocks, an indoor movie theatre, and rustic charm. Sleeps up to 6 (2 adults + kids). Aliyah Treehouse – Built in 2016, it's the tallest treehouse on the property. Highlights include a living‑room tree, swinging bridge, interior/exterior swings, and hammocks. Perfect for families with older children; sleeps up to 6. Hickory Treehouse – Crafted by local artisans from family‑inspired carpentry, it’s designed for younger kids and features slides, swings, a slack‑line, climbing nets/walls, and hammocks. Sleeps up to 6. Love Bus “Schoolie” Skoolie – A quirky, converted school‑bus lodging with hot tub, outdoor movie theatre setup, fridge and simple amenities. A cozy retreat for couples or small families. Sleeps 2 adults + 2 kids. --- 🌲 Trails & Outdoor Adventure Twenty‑plus miles of themed trails wind through forests, creeks, ponds, and features like hobbit‑houses, heart trails, cabins and hidden spots. Great for hiking, biking, creek‑walking, and exploration. Guided tree‑climbing sessions led by professionals add excitement—climb into the canopy safely while learning about nature. --- ⚙️ Amenities & Facilities Composting toilets near each treehouse (5-second walk); private bathroom/shower about 3–5 minutes away next to the farmhouse. Electricity is provided for lights, phone charging, and coffee maker, but there's no Wi‑Fi—cell service (Verizon/AT&T) generally works well. Kitchenettes come with mini‑fridge, stove, basic cookware, dishes, coffee maker, and freshwater tanks/refill station. Pet‑friendly environment (up to 2 dogs per stay, $50 fee each).

Backwoods Hideaway

100%

(29)

1 site · Lodging · Morehead, KY

This is a camping cabin, in the middle of the Daniel Boone National Forest. We are about 85 acres, surrounded by hundreds of acres of national Forest. We are located about 2 minutes from the Sheltowee Trail, and approximately 30 minutes away from Cave Run Lake, and about 30 minutes from Carter Caves State Park. This is a cabin with comfort. You can camp and also enjoy nature. The cabin is off grid, but has a generator for heat and Air conditioning. The outside toilet is close to the cabin and has a "Wash up" area. There is also an outdoor shower on the property just a short walk away, that features hot water. Everything you need to enjoy camping and hiking with a bit of comfort!

Lake View camping

98%

(147)

20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Reynolds Station, KY

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

Red River Rewind- Hey Jude

100%

(8)

2 sites · Lodging · Stanton, KY

Red River Rewind is a small glamping community that is themed off of the owner’s passion for different genre music, vintage, antique history and memorabilia. Currently still a work in progress, we offer a customized bell tent which sits on a 20 x 30 platform deck, with a customized, insulated, fully functioning outhouse which has a shower, commode, and sink that allows endless hot water. “Elvira” is our cozy small cabin. Both have electricity, and water, and full bathroom accessibility at their own site. “Hey Jude” also offers a small wood burning stove to accommodate for cooler temperatures with an Eden pure heater, and fans for warmer weather days, and mobile AC. ELVIRA has a window AC unit and heating with small unit. The customized fully furnished bathroom just steps away from the tent, offers endless hot water. There is also a water spicket just a few steps away from the deck. Note that should the wood stove want to be used, guests need to supply their own SMALL pieces of wood as it is a miniature fireplace. The cabin will be designed with a mini split heating and air system, in the future. WiFi is not currently available though an amenity that is upcoming in the very near future, fiber internet being installed mid July 2025. Cell phone access is good in our area typically. Red River Rewind has common shared amenities to include: a 3/4 acre fully stocked pond which is available for simply viewing its beauty as the fountain flows, or catch and release fishing as seasonally available, many family and friend oriented activities to choose from to check out and return such as cornhole, large checkers, and many more. As time and weather permits, we plan to expand with really neat projects and extras in upcoming months, and would love to have visitors passing through our beautiful area who need or want a place to stay or locals who just want a little change of scenery. We are simple, ordinary people who just want to share some of the things we love about life with others. On a clear note, there are beautiful images of the stars here. You will also have accessibility to a telescope.

Trace Space KY

100%

(20)

1 site · Lodging · Wellington, KY

Ready to share your passion for an eco-friendly tiny camping cabin near Cave Run Lake and the Red River Gorge with someone who shares your love of sustainability and nature, too? This transforming aframe cabin is perfect for nature lovers, campers, and eco-conscious explorers eager to learn, see, and stay, leaving a wildlife-friendly footprint. The tiny cabin is a unique transforming A-frame camping cabin that occupies a compact area, certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a wildlife habitat yard and recognized as a certified garden and monarch waystation through monarchwatch.org. TSKY is located 3 miles from Long Bow boat dock on Cave Run Lake, 10 minutes from the Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail, and 18 miles from the adventures in the Red River Gorge. Outdoor seekers and enthusiasts will appreciate the nature trails, the lake's pristine waters, and the opportunity to explore the Daniel Boone National Forest or to simply rest and unplug. There are short hikes within a 20-minute drive, each offering its own unique discovery: arches, an overlook, a cave, and a 60-foot waterfall nestled within a small scenic canyon. With so much natural beauty to explore, your stay at our A-frame camping cabin is a perfect base place to Embrace Nature's Pace.

Stories from the community

Brie

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Art Farm

We had a nice time at Laura’s. Kindly showed us where everything was, was very respectful and we felt very safe there. The cats were adorable too!

S

Sheldon

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

1 night at The Art Farm

Laura’s camp space was great. Perfectly flat for our van and very quiet. We had a lovely evening.

A

Alex

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at The Art Farm

Even if you stay just one night to break up travel (as I did), I highly recommend the Art Farm. The spaciousness of the camp was a delight. I arrived at the property around 9 pm, and Laura graciously showed me a secluded site towards the back of the tract. The nearest camper was far away, and though it was mid-November when I stayed, I could still envision seclusion in a busier season. The land was well-maintained, and Laura offers a variety of camping spots. Paducah was also well worth seeing- a lovely town right along the Ohio River with several cool spots! I’ll be back!

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!

L

Livona

2 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at Camp Escape

There's a lot of areas to walk, and let your dog run. It's great s itting on the deck watching the stars & enjoying the fireplace. It's was so peaceful.

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.

Liv

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at The Harrican Lakehouse

This cabin won me over the moment I walked in. It was warm, cozy, and the loft was surprisingly spacious. The porch is the real showstopper, and even though it was too cold to sit out for long, the views from every window were gorgeous. It even started snowing while we were there, which added this wild, magical atmosphere to the whole stay. The only downsides were the not-so-comfy seating, the heat being a little too powerful overnight, and the outhouse being a long chilly walk with a very rustic setup. None of it ruined the experience, but it is worth knowing before you go. Leslie loved the lake and all the open space to explore. I even had to hop in a kayak to fetch her ball when she refused to wade into the cold water, which felt like peak dog mom adventure energy. Slippers were clutch since the floors get cold and they were perfect for padding out onto the porch. The best moment was watching the sunrise roll in over the misty lake. Quiet, spooky, peaceful, and absolutely beautiful. I would stay again without hesitation.

K

Kaitlynn

3 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Backwoods Hideaway

Great place! So peaceful and quiet. The host provided everything we could need, which was so helpful! I loved that my dog was able to go with us, and he was able to be off-leash! Will be coming back in the future!

Z

Zeke

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Handyland

It was great. Very peacefull. Visited the Ark. I would stay here again!!!

I

Irene

November 2025

1 night at Camp Escape

shelby’s camper is the perfect little getaway!! it was private and cozy and on some beautiful land. we will definitely be coming back!

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!

Beautiful RV site in rolling Western Kentucky farm country. Close to all amenities, Paducah and I-24. Both 30 amp and 110 outlets, water spigot, hot tub and outdoor shower.

E

Elizabeth

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Art Farm

I loved camping on Laura's land! Porta-potty, shower, and hot tub are all near the site. It looks quiet, and the view across the field was lovely!

T

Trey

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!

This place was awesome! My wife and I enjoyed our get away! The treehouse was so cozy and secluded. The trails were well maintained and the property was beautiful! We will be back!

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.

Glamping Tent Platform (seen here without tent) tucked into the edge of the Meditation Woods. Privacy. Serenity. Peace.

S

Samantha

October 2025

10 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Art Farm

This was a perfect primitive camp for us! The area had plenty of privacy with a beautiful scenery. Early mornings, next to the woods gave a good spot to drink some coffee and watch the wildlife. Easily accessible, and not far from town if you needed to make a quick trip. Communication with Laura was friendly, quick and easy. Definitely saving this spot for our next trip in the area:)

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

C

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Escape

Very peaceful, comfortable and clean! Would definitely go again.!

R

Rebecca

October 2025

3 nights at Red River Rewind- Hey Jude

We loved our tent camping experience on Sarah's land. She was super responsive on any questions we had. There were a ton of little touches in the glamping tent that made it so nice, like games, extra blankets, extra toiletries, a mini fridge and a microwave. Being able to see the animals each day and having such a picturesque area was great. It was very peaceful.

Kara

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Harrican Lakehouse

My parents, myself and two dogs had an awesome weekend at the Harrican Lakehouse. It was super quiet, restful and exactly as marketed. It was chilly at night and we all stayed super cozy in the house and by the fire. The only thing I would recommend to future guests is to bring your own pillow and coffee pot if you and your guests drink multiple cups. The one provided is just a little small.

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.

G

Grace

October 2025

1 night at The Harrican Lakehouse

I stayed at this lake house on a road trip around Kentucky while visiting from Oregon. The location is very remote and private and the hosts were great! I even ended up adopting a puppy from them lol The lake is gorgeous especially at sunrise and sunset. There’s chairs on the wrap around deck, multiple kayaks, a fire pit (bring wood), and a dock. The lake house provides you with hand soap, towels, bedding. The kitchen has utensils/plates/bowls/pots/pans, a radio, a fridge/freezer, stove/oven, and sink. Bring your own dish soap and paper towels if needed. We spent the day fishing on the lake and doing a puzzle inside. I’d bring extra blankets if you are visiting in the fall as it gets chilly. Overall, a wonderful stay and I’d definitely visit again if I’m back in Kentucky!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best romantic 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.