The best family-friendly campgrounds near Carlisle, Kentucky

Looking to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature? Look no further than Hidden Lake Farm! With over 540 family-friendly camping options near Carlisle, Kentucky, you're bound to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. From the serene Fruitdale Farm, to the picturesque Hones Pointe, these top campsites have got you covered. Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly spaces, and proper trash disposal. And if you're feeling adventurous, take part in activities like whitewater paddling, horseback riding, and boating. With an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $12, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for a memorable outdoor experience!

99% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature? Look no further than Hidden Lake Farm! With over 540 family-friendly camping options near Carlisle, Kentucky, you're bound to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. From the serene Fruitdale Farm, to the picturesque Hones Pointe, these top campsites have got you covered. Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly spaces, and proper trash disposal. And if you're feeling adventurous, take part in activities like whitewater paddling, horseback riding, and boating. With an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $12, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for a memorable outdoor experience!

99% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Farm and Forest

98%

(245)

27mi from Carlisle · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Lexington, KY

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.

2. Two Mile Glamping

97%

(283)

26mi from Carlisle · 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.

3. Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

99%

(215)

48mi from Carlisle · 5 sites · Tents · Lawrenceburg, KY

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.

4. The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

99%

(183)

46mi from Carlisle · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Campton, KY

Located 1 mile from the Red River Gorge in Pine Ridge KY between Mt. Parkway Exit 40 East and Exit 40 West and 8 miles to Natural Bridge State Park. The Kilns provides an area for rest and relaxation for those wanting to camp. while enjoying the outdoors. The KILNS got its name from large charcoal kilns that was a thriving family business in the late 50's early 60's. Although they are no longer functioning, they are part of our history. The camping area is nestled on a small family farm with 5 acres designated for PRIMATIVE Tent or Van Camping. The property is surrounded by beautiful woodlands and a lush green field, freshly manicured. It is easy access to Red River Gorge, Local Restaurants, General Stores all while secluded from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come relax and enjoy, we look forward to seeing you! Here are the coordinates: the maps sometimes take you to Campton, but the coordinates are accurate. Coordinates: 37.75254° N, 83.60836° W Address: 300 Johnson Ln. Campton, KY 41301

5. Possum Ridge Ranch

100%

(115)

43mi from Carlisle · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · West Liberty, KY

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

6. Handyland

100%

(48)

45mi from Carlisle · 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)

21mi from Carlisle · 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. Camp Middle Fork

98%

(159)

50mi from Carlisle · 4 sites · Tents · Irvine, KY

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.

9. Family Farm Experience

98%

(26)

28mi from Carlisle · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallingford, KY

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

Camper favorites near Carlisle

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

99%

(183)

46mi from Carlisle · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Campton, KY

Located 1 mile from the Red River Gorge in Pine Ridge KY between Mt. Parkway Exit 40 East and Exit 40 West and 8 miles to Natural Bridge State Park. The Kilns provides an area for rest and relaxation for those wanting to camp. while enjoying the outdoors. The KILNS got its name from large charcoal kilns that was a thriving family business in the late 50's early 60's. Although they are no longer functioning, they are part of our history. The camping area is nestled on a small family farm with 5 acres designated for PRIMATIVE Tent or Van Camping. The property is surrounded by beautiful woodlands and a lush green field, freshly manicured. It is easy access to Red River Gorge, Local Restaurants, General Stores all while secluded from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come relax and enjoy, we look forward to seeing you! Here are the coordinates: the maps sometimes take you to Campton, but the coordinates are accurate. Coordinates: 37.75254° N, 83.60836° W Address: 300 Johnson Ln. Campton, KY 41301

Possum Ridge Ranch

100%

(115)

43mi from Carlisle · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · West Liberty, KY

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

Handyland

100%

(48)

45mi from Carlisle · 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.

Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!

100%

(29)

21mi from Carlisle · 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).

Camp Middle Fork

98%

(159)

50mi from Carlisle · 4 sites · Tents · Irvine, KY

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.

Family Farm Experience

98%

(26)

28mi from Carlisle · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Wallingford, KY

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

Stories from the community

A

Aurora

2 weeks ago

With pets

1 night at Handyland

What an awesome little hidden gem! So many little details felt like the hosts are thoughtful and accommodating people. Josh also gave so many details for how to reach the property accurately and was very responsive. Thank you! Will stay again if coming through the area.

m

meaghan

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

This was the coolest place we’ve ever camped at! The hosts were super nice and easy to communicate with, they also recommended a lot of different things to see/do. The animals were very friendly and sociable, especially Little Rat and Frank. Overall very nice property!

Katie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Handyland

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

M

Marie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

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

Z

Zygimantas

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Great location near Red River Gorge. Helpful hosts & great communicators.

E

Evelyn

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

We enjoyed hiking along the creek bed, visiting with the horses, and fishing in the river! A nice spot for camping; we pitched our tent in the field overlooking the river. Very friendly hosts and animals. Hope to get back sometime.

M

Matt

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Second time here. Very nice place and great hosts! My go to spot by the red river gorge

Z

Zeke

November 2025

2 nights at Handyland

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

J

Justin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

We loved camping here! Wish we had been able to take advantage of the included firewood but the weather had other plans. Good space between other sites and beautiful fall colors surrounding us. And our host was super helpful and welcoming. Hope to be back!

l

laura

November 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Our little family stayed here in our pop-up camper, and it was nothing short of magical. The hosts were absolutely amazing — so kind, accommodating, and welcoming. They went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed and even met us upon arrival to help us find the spot and get parked easily. The campsite itself felt private and peaceful, surrounded by trees and nature with plenty of open space for our two-year-old and our dog to run, explore, and just be free. It was the perfect mix of seclusion and comfort — quiet enough to feel like our own world, yet close to everything we wanted to do near the Gorge. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The atmosphere, the hospitality, and the natural beauty all came together to make this one of our favorite camping trips yet. If you’re looking for a place to truly unwind and enjoy the outdoors near the Gorge, this is it. We can’t wait to come 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!

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!

P

Pamela

October 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Farm and Forest

Lovely host and property. We really enjoyed the wide open space! Beautiful property.

J

Jacob

October 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

3 nights at The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

My friends and I had a fantastic stay at the Kilns on our most recent climbing trip to the RRG. Kim was kind enough to meet us upon arrival (even though we showed up late in to the evening) and showed us to our site as well as giving us a rundown of the campground. The site was large enough for our small pop-up camper and a few trucks with plenty of room between sites. There was a very clean port-a-john close to our site which was very convenient for a primitive campground. The location, hospitality, and amenities were amazing. We will be staying there again and would recommend it to anyone!

S

Sarah

October 2025

17 ft pop-up camper

3 nights at The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Great place and wonderful hosts! Close to the gorge and climbing options.

S

Shannon

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Farm and Forest

I really enjoyed Farm and Forest! We picked the site nearest the road, but the tree line buffered the sound quite well. If you're on the fence - hit reserve!

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.

Fan-shaped Jelly Fungus for breaky anyone?

Grace

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Two Mile Glamping

The space was as described, complete with howling coyotes, raccoons the size of small toddlers and severed heads (not real!) on sticks at one site that was adjacent to us that starkly contrasted with the theme of Happy Days…. but we did leave in a bit of a daze after a cold night spent sleeping here under the stars! Bonus points for the beautiful yellow fungi growing out of the picnic table and traffic/train sounds throughout the night 🥴

Campsite with fire ring, accessed by car or short hike. Can accommodate up to four tents, and hammocks.

Hannah

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Farm and Forest

Easy to find, beautiful property! Jennifer was responsive to my many questions and flexible when I had a last minute change.

J

Joe

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Everything about this place is perfect.. we’ve stayed here several times. Host is always welcoming upon arrival and always there to go above and beyond! Plus free firewood! You can’t go wrong.