Discover the best mountainous campgrounds near Carlisle, Kentucky

United States
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Kentucky
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Carlisle

94% (676 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Carlisle

Community favorites near Carlisle

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

1 night at Serenity Camp

This space was so great for my dog and I and our 23ft rig during our first few days of full time bus life! It was so incredibly peaceful with the birds and privacy. It is right off of a road but it doesn’t feel like it all tucked away and felt super safe. The hosts were so great and gave great recommendations that i asked for. Plus the location is great for so many things! I will definitely stay again.

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

Plenty of space and awesome spots to choose from, also super close to the gorge!! Would definitely recommend!

Weekend Trip to Camp Middle Fork

Great area with lots to do. There was a mushroom festival in town with a car and rock show, live music etc. The host was amazing, helped with information on hiking trails and things to do in the area. Hiking trails right behind camp, and a stream very close for the kids to play and discover new things in. Our boys had a really fun time on their first camping trip! If you haven’t already, give this place a visit.

Weekend Trip to Bar on the Mountain

This site has amazing views! There were three tents and could easily accommodate more. We a rain storm the first night and the bar was great hang out area to keep dry.

1 night at Waterfront on The Edge

Beautiful spot on Ohio Brush Creek. Our plans changed, so ended up staying with family instead this time, but we visited the large campsite and hope to camp there sometime in the future.

2 nights at Bar on the Mountain

This site has the most gorgeous views. The property was clean and easy to access. The Bar was weathered and rustic which made the experience more outdoorsy authentic. I enjoyed it for the short amount of time I got to stay. The only thing that was a downer was that the the 2 sites are a little to close to be considered secluded. You can hear each sites conversations. But I do hope to be back again in the near future and bring a bunch more people.

2 nights at Bar on the Mountain

Great trip. The bar is very cool. Really enjoyed the sunrise.

4 nights at Serenity Camp

Very nice area for a rustic camp! This is an animal lovers paradise with horses nearby, lots of rabbits running around, and a very diverse and active bird population. Very calm, but a little bit of noise pollution at night where we could hear cars, ATVs, and many dogs on adjoining properties kept outdoors. This would typically quiet down around 1am. Also, there is a very vocal whippoorwill in this area that will keep you company all night :) This may be an issue for light sleepers or the superstitious! As for the views, we could not see much at our spot although surrounding trees and starry skies were charming, but my expectations were a little different based on other reviewers' pictures. Regardless, this is a good deal for a bare bones camper, and the location is a short drive from all of the RRG sites.

3 nights at Bear Pond

Once again, I had another incredible stay at Bear Pond. This time, I used Nola’s Cabin, which is available as an extra, along with firewood bundles and other amenities. Host John has included many thoughtful appointments to the cabin, including a nice-sized refrigerator with a real freezer, heating, fan, table, screens on the windows, and space for your own belongings. I am so very fussy about mattresses, but the sleep accommodations at Nola’s Cabin are outstanding. I slept incredibly well, which makes for a great day of hiking the next morning. If I had my own place in Adams County, I would want it to be like Nola's Cabin at Bear Pond.

4 nights at Bear Pond

I just love being away from everything and having the peace and quiet of the outdoors. If it wasn’t for my physical issues, we would like to have stayed. We hated to have to come back 2 days early

6 nights at Bar on the Mountain

Our 3rd stay. Still an amazing site. No clue why someone complained about an unbearable oil smell in a review, 3 times there never noticed it. Lot of ticks around the site this trip but that's the whole Gorge area, so pack the bug spray. Planning our next trip already. Can't beat the view.

Weekend Trip to Camp Middle Fork

This is a beautiful place to stay with very nice hosts.

Weekend Trip to Bear Pond

Nola’s Cabin and Bear Pond was excellent again. Great place to stay.

2 nights at Treehouses, Off the Grid!

Staying in a tree house has always been a dream of mine, and this one was fabulous. The house was great as was the area surrounding: fire pit, hammock and swing. We spent many hours on the trails and especially enjoyed Jacob's Ladder trail. There was peace of mind knowing the whole property was fenced in. We felt very safe and our dog loved walking the trails off leash with us. Bad weather rolled in our last night, and Shelly was very communicative, making sure we were aware of the watches and warnings, and giving options for where to head if we felt we were in danger.

1 night at Possum Ridge Ranch

Very nice camping area and bath house. Excellent view of sunset and stars in highest camping area.

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

We LOVED camping here, Jamie was so helpful in finding our campsite in the dark- and when we woke up we were in such a nice little spot in the woods! Absolutely everything we were looking for in this camping trip.

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

Lots are very separated with lots of flat spaces and Jamie was very accommodating when we asked to be closer to the woods. Price is great even with no water, elec, bathrooms, etc....

Weekend Trip to Camp Middle Fork

My sin and I enjoyed our stop at Barts property. The scenery was gorgeous. He fetched some firewood fornme and his wife brought kinding. Their son incuded mine in a morning walk down to the creek and to a neighbors place to explore. The composting toilet was awesome. No smell and it was clean and peaceful. It was an added bonus to have a covered outdoor kitchen/seating area with a fresh spring water sink, ample counter space, table, stools, and electricity. Bonus an electric tea kettle! There was a box with maps, guides, and other goodies for guests. There was a crazy hard trail up the mountain behind the site that was steep and slippery. The view was worth it. We will definitely be back.

2 nights at Serenity Camp

Beautiful place to camp in a more secluded area. Very close to the Gorge and trails, with stores/restaurants nearby as well.

Weekend Trip to Bar on the Mountain

we stayed at the top shelf and it was our first time coming to this site and it’s amazing! a ton of space for tents and activities. the view is amazing, se saw a fon of stars at night, and its pretty secluded (besides the bar side lol). we will definitely be coming back and booking the bar side!

12 top mountainous campgrounds near Carlisle

98%

(315)

Serenity Camp

26 sites · RVs, Tents175 acres · Beattyville, KY

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.

100%

(75)

Possum Ridge Ranch

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents375 acres · 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 around but no hunting is allowed. Our designated tent sites do have firepits and 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 is a centrally located bathhouse with toilet, shower and sink and a hose for potable water. We have firewood for sale for $15 per bundle and is an extra option when booking(use what you need during your stay and it is located at the tent sites), 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.

97%

(117)

Bar on the Mountain

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Beattyville, KY

*ADDITIONAL SITE ADDED* Check out our new site, Top Shelf added March 2024! Primitive camping at its PEAK! Located in the heart of Natural Bridge State Park and the Red River Gorge, this secluded camping ground offers an experience above the rest - literally! Accommodates tents and RV/campers 24ft and under. 360 degree views including a front row seat to an Appalachian Mountain sunrise! Minutes from Hollerwood Offroad Park, Gorge-ous climbing and hiking trails, fishing/boating/swimming at Mill Creek Lake, restaurants including Miguel's Pizza, Rockhouse, La Cabana Mexican, and Thatcher's BBQ to name a few! Close access to Hollerwood Offroad Park.

Booked 8 times

Three Springs Campground RV Park

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents48 acres · Sadieville, KY

Your family adventure awaits at Three Springs RV Park. Nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s scenic landscapes, just moments from the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum, our park offers a family-friendly haven for unforgettable experiences. Explore God’s creation, build lasting memories, and find peace in every sunset and starlit sky. Start your adventure with us today! Whether you're driving across the country in your RV, pitching a tent under the stars, or seeking the cozy comfort of a cabin, Three Springs RV Park offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. Explore our welcoming spaces designed with your comfort and enjoyment in mind, and discover the ideal base for your adventures in the scenic heart of Kentucky.

99%

(136)

Camp Middle Fork

4 sites · Tents180 acres · 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.

99%

(80)

Waterfront on The Edge

4 sites · Tents10 acres · Manchester, OH

Each campsite is along the waters of Ohio Brush Creek. This sacred waterway is also home to the Serpent Mound. Ohio Brush Creek is The Edge of Ohios Appalachia! The is much to be discovered in an area of glacial boundaries and ancient earthworks with 31 state and private nature preserves for hiking. And great paddling adventures on OBC and The Ohio River at The Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Wifi is available but very weak to non existent signal as you are in rural Appalachia.

Booked 3 times

The Retreat at High Rock

8 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Stanton, KY

The Retreat at High Rock – A Premier Wilderness Sanctuary in Stanton, KY Perched at an elevation of 1,200 feet, The Retreat at High Rock offers an unparalleled blend of luxury accommodations and untamed natural beauty. Located on High Rock Road in Stanton, Kentucky, this exclusive property provides year-round access to pristine wilderness alongside amenities typically found only in urban boutique hotels. Accommodations: Loft Cabin: Cantilevered design with panoramic views, accommodating 2 adults and 1 child. Couples Cabin: Designed for romantic getaways, featuring premium linens and locally-crafted furnishings. The Bunkhouse: Rustic farmhouse-style bunkhouse perfect for families or groups, accommodating 4 adults and 1 child. RV Camping & Tents: For those seeking a closer connection to nature, offering clean and modern bathhouse facilities. Amenities: Therapeutic Bathhouse: A clean and modern facility designed to enhance your relaxation experience. Private Fire Pits & Picnic Areas: Available at RV sites, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Panoramic Decks: Each accommodation features decks with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Experiences: Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty with activities such as exploring scenic trails and reconnecting with the natural world. The Retreat at High Rock is designed to create moments of wonder, reflection, and connection. Location: Situated in the heart of Kentucky's wilderness, The Retreat at High Rock offers a secluded escape while being conveniently located near the attractions of Stanton and the Red River Gorge area.

97%

(39)

Bear Pond

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · West Union, OH

*** Use Discount Code EQZFZGKG for $45 off, for stays of 4 days or Longer*** Serene, Rolling Hills, Fresh air. Hiking Buzzards Roost, Canoe/Kayaking @ MoonDoggie LIVERee, visiting Family Traditions Animal Zoo, Miller’s Amish Furniture and Bakery, Shawnee National Forest, Adams State Lake, Serpent Mound, Tranquility Wild Life Shooting Range, or even just stargazing. Your away from everything but close to what ever you want. Bigfoot Country (Sasquatch Hunting is allowed, however like fishing, they are catch and release only😎) . Nice private spot accommodates Tent Camping, Car camping, or even if your taking an Overland Trip. Bear Pond will accommodate small RVs and Travel trailers. Nola's Cabin is a New availability as an Extra. Nola's Cabin is a Cozy small quiet cabin situated at the end of the gravel driveway under the trees. Overlooks the small valley down into the hill across the creek. Nice cozy place out of the elements. Water and Electric is available on site, with only Electric in Nolas Cabin. Nolas Cabin accommodates 4 people nicely. Twin (1) over full bunk (2) with Trundle (1). 6 inch Memory foam pads with liners are present on beds. Get a good nights rest while on your getaway, and still enjoy your outdoor cooking, fishing and star gazing. During inclement weather, a single serve K cup style coffee maker and Microwave are available to start your morning off. Bear Pond does have garbage bags upon request. But we ask you carry your refuse out with you due to the wildlife. Bear Pond is Furry Family Friendly. Just be mindful of possible wildlife if your Furry family members is off leash.

81%

(18)

Nocoma’s Pass

6 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Ravenna, KY

We searched all over for a piece of property in the mountains of Kentucky! We fell in love with our 50 acres nestled in between 3 mountains. With waterfalls a cave 2 streams beautiful star filled nights tucked away in the middle of a wooded utopia! Totally away from the modern world but close enough to be there in 30 minutes!

100%

(21)

Pine Tree RV Park

2 sites · RVs35 acres · Frenchburg, KY

My campground has 3 gravel hookups. Each hookup has city water, 50 amp electric, and sewer hookup. If you need 30 amp, I will rent a refundable reducer for $20. My house is nearby. Beautiful Cave Run Lake is nearby. It is 6 miles from the campground. One can hike, fish, kayak, boat ride etc…. We are 21 miles from Natural Bridge and 15 miles from Red River Gorge!!

100%

(25)

Treehouses, Off the Grid!

5 sites · Lodging285 acres · Germantown, KY

Owned by my Dad who said I could build a tree house on it in 2014. It really was a dream come true. My Dad's original intent was to make it into a huge farm. Now, he is content with building a few treehouses! I have wanted a tree house since I was 10 years old. My siblings and I would spend hours make believing our own tree houses of twigs, rock and moss. It was where we felt at peace. When I turned 35 I knew something was missing in my life. I returned to doing fun adventures again and one led to another and we found tree climbing. EarthJOY tree adventures was founded in 2007 and since then we have guided 1000's of climbers into the trees and watch as they do tree tricks like yoga poses and coming down like spiderman.This land is magical and a world of adventure awaits you!

100%

(2)

Off Grid Casita

2 sites · Tents40 acres · Owenton, KY

WELCOME TO THIS... 1 of a kind hipster campground located in Owenton, Kentucky that offers a unique nature experience. Our secluded 40 acres are surrounded by woods & the beauty of nature. This is the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life! Watch the deer & turkey walk by, hike through the woods or stroll by the creek & simply relax; soak up the calm nature has to offer. I can’t leave unmentioned the spectacular beauty of our night sky that is lit up by a sea of stars. We are located in the center of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail & we are just 35 min. to Frankfort, Kentucky's state capital. Nearby popular attractions include the Ark Encounter (36 min. drive) & the Creation Museum (57 min. drive), offering guests the chance to learn about the creation of the world & the history of the global flood, all from a biblical perspective. In addition to all of this you can enjoy a scenic 7 min. drive to the Elk Creek Vineyards.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountainous camping near Carlisle guide

Overview

Looking to escape to the great outdoors near Carlisle, Kentucky? Hipcamp has over 1444 camping options for you to choose from, each offering a unique experience. Whether you're a fan of Hones Pointe (352 reviews), The Viking Longhall (257 reviews), or Rockcastle Riverside (225 reviews), you're sure to find a top-rated campsite that suits your preferences. With prices starting as low as $10 per night and averaging around $25 per night, camping in Kentucky has never been more affordable. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like toilets, trash disposal, and potable water. So whether you're into wind sports, off-roading, or paddling, get ready for an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Carlisle, Kentucky.