The best waterfall campgrounds near Carlisle, Kentucky

In Carlisle, you’ll find over 520 campsites near waterfalls, with options starting at just $12 a night and an average price of $30. Camp next to cascades and wake up to the sound of rushing water. Top spots like Serenity Camp (259 reviews), Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone (155 reviews), and The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres) (98 reviews) put you close to swimming holes and wildlife-watching opportunities. Pets are welcome, and you’ll find showers and campfire rings at many sites. If you’re looking for climbing or just want to unwind by a waterfall, Carlisle has you covered.

95% (750)

Top-rated campgrounds

Zipper was stuck. But the site was really flat, so that was really nice.

In Carlisle, you’ll find over 520 campsites near waterfalls, with options starting at just $12 a night and an average price of $30. Camp next to cascades and wake up to the sound of rushing water. Top spots like Serenity Camp (259 reviews), Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone (155 reviews), and The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres) (98 reviews) put you close to swimming holes and wildlife-watching opportunities. Pets are welcome, and you’ll find showers and campfire rings at many sites. If you’re looking for climbing or just want to unwind by a waterfall, Carlisle has you covered.

95% (750)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Serenity Camp

98%

(357)

50mi from Carlisle · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Daniel Boone National Forest

97%

(33)

619 sites · Whitley City, Kentucky

Waterfalls, arches, lakes, hiking—This massive national forest has all the recreation you could want

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Carter Caves State Resort Park

100%

(5)

129 sites · Olive Hill, Kentucky

Forest hikes, subterranean wonders, and lakeside fun await at Carter Caves.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

100%

(134)

37mi from Carlisle · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Frenchburg, KY

When you want to get away to nature, what do you envision? We're a family that loves to camp; and while we love a stop at a KOA or community campground, we sometimes crave quiet time in nature without the noise and distraction of other campers. That's what makes The LAAAAND so special. The property is comprised of 50 pristine acres, with a mix of fields and woods, that bump up against another 250 acres owned by our family friends. The southern perimeter of the property is all cliff line, so you feel truly remote. The possibilities of sound pollution are limited to a far-off dog barking, horses being ridden down a nearby trail, or the possible hum of a distant lumber yard. Other than that, you'll mostly hear the wind rustling trees, deer and critters making their way through the woods, and possibly a waterfall at certain times of the year. Oh, and you will absolutely hear whipoorwhills, most likely at a time you'd rather not (we've decided they're charming). Over the nearly 2 decades we've owned this property we have spent countless weekends enjoying the simplest of pleasures; watching butterflies dance in the tree canopy, having dance parties at sunset on the deck, forging new trails and hiking into the unkown, sitting in the truck bed late at night gazing at a star-covered sky counting shooting stars. If you are looking for a space and place to reset and reconnect, The LAAAAND is waiting for you. (***Please note, we leave our personal camper on the property for the camping season, so you will see it when you arrive to the right of the campsite***)

7. Shasta Valley

96%

(58)

38mi from Carlisle · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Frenchburg, KY

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 or dream and share it with you! 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!

8. Nocoma’s Pass

84%

(22)

44mi from Carlisle · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!

9. D.J.’S Camp LLC

94%

(33)

40mi from Carlisle · 3 sites · Wellington, KY

This two-site campground is located in Wellington, KY (Menifee County). Water, sewer, and 50/30 amp. electric are supplied at each site for your self-contained rig to camp. Wifi is included in your site fee. Firewood is supplied free of charge to use in our firepit. Long Bow Marina is just 3 miles away so bring your boat. Cave Run Lake Dam, Natural Bridge State Park, Broke Leg Falls, and Red River Gorge are just minutes away from our campground. If you are attending an event at Sunset Ridge Farm/Wedding Lodge, it's only 4 miles away.

Pets

Potable water

Campfires

10. Red River Adventure

93%

(7)

39mi from Carlisle · 1 site · Frenchburg, KY

We are River front campground/glamping/kayaking in the heart of the Red River Gorge! Located near many popular trails, rock climbing, and kayaking in the lush Daniel Boone National Forest! We love pets and welcome everyone to stay in one of our themed glampers and tiny homes! Solar Showers avaiable and warm summer nights!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Camper favorites near Carlisle

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

100%

(134)

37mi from Carlisle · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Frenchburg, KY

When you want to get away to nature, what do you envision? We're a family that loves to camp; and while we love a stop at a KOA or community campground, we sometimes crave quiet time in nature without the noise and distraction of other campers. That's what makes The LAAAAND so special. The property is comprised of 50 pristine acres, with a mix of fields and woods, that bump up against another 250 acres owned by our family friends. The southern perimeter of the property is all cliff line, so you feel truly remote. The possibilities of sound pollution are limited to a far-off dog barking, horses being ridden down a nearby trail, or the possible hum of a distant lumber yard. Other than that, you'll mostly hear the wind rustling trees, deer and critters making their way through the woods, and possibly a waterfall at certain times of the year. Oh, and you will absolutely hear whipoorwhills, most likely at a time you'd rather not (we've decided they're charming). Over the nearly 2 decades we've owned this property we have spent countless weekends enjoying the simplest of pleasures; watching butterflies dance in the tree canopy, having dance parties at sunset on the deck, forging new trails and hiking into the unkown, sitting in the truck bed late at night gazing at a star-covered sky counting shooting stars. If you are looking for a space and place to reset and reconnect, The LAAAAND is waiting for you. (***Please note, we leave our personal camper on the property for the camping season, so you will see it when you arrive to the right of the campsite***)

Shasta Valley

96%

(58)

38mi from Carlisle · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Frenchburg, KY

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 or dream and share it with you! 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!

Nocoma’s Pass

84%

(22)

44mi from Carlisle · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!

D.J.’S Camp LLC

94%

(33)

40mi from Carlisle · 3 sites · Wellington, KY

This two-site campground is located in Wellington, KY (Menifee County). Water, sewer, and 50/30 amp. electric are supplied at each site for your self-contained rig to camp. Wifi is included in your site fee. Firewood is supplied free of charge to use in our firepit. Long Bow Marina is just 3 miles away so bring your boat. Cave Run Lake Dam, Natural Bridge State Park, Broke Leg Falls, and Red River Gorge are just minutes away from our campground. If you are attending an event at Sunset Ridge Farm/Wedding Lodge, it's only 4 miles away.

Pets

Potable water

Campfires

Red River Adventure

93%

(7)

39mi from Carlisle · 1 site · Frenchburg, KY

We are River front campground/glamping/kayaking in the heart of the Red River Gorge! Located near many popular trails, rock climbing, and kayaking in the lush Daniel Boone National Forest! We love pets and welcome everyone to stay in one of our themed glampers and tiny homes! Solar Showers avaiable and warm summer nights!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Carlisle

White Sulphur Horse Camp

30mi from Carlisle · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

Clear Creek Campground

31mi from Carlisle · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

Love Twin Knobs campground! And Cave Run Lake has the most amazing sunsets!!

100%

(7)

Twin Knobs Campground

32mi from Carlisle · 66 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

100%

(1)

Zilpo Campground

34mi from Carlisle · 103 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

100%

(1)

Claylick Boat-in Campground

35mi from Carlisle · 13 sites · in Daniel Boone National Forest

100%

(2)

Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

39mi from Carlisle · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

100%

(9)

Koomer Ridge Campground

43mi from Carlisle · 108 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

100%

(5)

Carter Caves Campground

49mi from Carlisle · 129 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carter Caves State Resort Park

Stories from the community

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!

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.

G

Greg

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

We had an absolutely amazing time at The LAAAAND. The views were stunning in every direction, and the trails were a blast to hike beautiful, and full of variety. We only had two days to explore and easily could’ve spent a full week out there and still not seen everything. The campsite was peaceful, well stocked with firewood, spacious, and perfect for unplugging. We’ll definitely be back again!

T

Tania

3 weeks ago

10 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

I didn't get to camp bc the weekend i reserved was 20 degrees and i didn't want to do it. I still want to leave a good review because they kept good contact and emails of everything i needed to know on how to get there and a even a video of the road leading up to the camp. Im planning on reserving again when its not so cold!

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.

B

Brad

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

Everything about the location, setup, and scenery are absolutely perfect! The little touches of extras was unexpected and definitely welcomed! The grill rack, extra chairs, table were awesome, and the canopy came in clutch when we arrived while it was raining. We brought a couple bundles of wood just in case, and was surprised to see plenty of precut wood to use as well! The short hikes to the cliff and waterfalls are amazing, and the sights were incredible! Just be extra careful if it rains while you are there. Parts of the hike/climbing can be extremely slippery, especially on the more sloped areas. Absolutely would stay here again and again!

Chad

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

3 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

No wonder you have 100% on your reviews. The property is beautiful and the view overlooking the Daniel Boone National Forest is amazing. The camping spot was easy to get to with my Pickup truck and 16’ Sunray Sport Camper. The areas to hike and explore are well marked and there’s plenty of rock features to check out. Also not far from the Red River Gorge area to check out the Rock bridge and the Nada tunnel. Thank you for sharing your amazing property!

J

Jessica

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

Beautiful location and very private. The views was great. I also appreciated the tarp to place my tent under.

Little grove of trees was a perfect place to set up the hammock.

H

Hannah

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

Awesome campground would definitely recommend staying there!

T

Tollie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

Great location! Very pretty property, secluded and private.

Tess

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Serenity Camp

I loved tent camping here at the beautiful Majestic Views! Instructions were very clear and the host, Jamie, was very helpful. I didn't plan a great time to go weather-wise, and it was raining pretty much from the time I arrived to when I left the next day. Still, I was determined to see my camping trip through after the drive down there and I ended up having a great time. Jamie let me stay at a spot where they was a small shelter which some hay bales were being kept under, so I was able to pitch my tent under there and avoid getting soaked. Ended up having a very cozy little set up there right next to the pasture where the horses were out. Despite being in view of the farmhouse, the spot was still very private and secluded. What a gorgeous place- the rolling hills, autumn trees, and even the grey, rainy sky were stunning. Was able to enjoy a very peaceful night. In the morning, I got to hang out a bit with one of the dogs who came down to my camping spot and ended up staying for a while- much to my joy! Very close to the Natural Bridge park so I went hiking the next day after checkout. Thank you Jamie, I hope to be back again sometime when it isn't quite as rainy!

Mara

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

Very pretty and secluded. Beautiful fall colors, be aware of falling acorns in the fall. The first time one hits you camper its loud 🤣 had some wild turkeys hanging around that were cool. I wish they had a trash can by the gate for when you leave, that would be helpful. We enjoyed our stay and the quite solitude of nature.

Evalena

October 2025

Tent

7 nights at Serenity Camp

We absolutely loved our stay. We got lost and Jamie immediately helped us, he also guided us to a beautiful camp spot that was perfect for us. Very spacious, private, open and wooded. The views were just gorgeous. We explored serenity falls ravines, as well as a very deep ravine hidden next to our camp spot that was so magical! If you’re a climber that would be a lovely spot. We felt at home, peaceful and safe our whole stay and did not want to pack up to go back home after a week there! Some things to note, but don’t sway me or my experience at all- You will hear dogs 98% of the time barking, we are used to this. You will also hear cars and traffic as it’s nestled across the highway, also something we were used to because our own land is beautiful but is also off a main road so we hear it at home too. So if you’re looking for something perfectly quiet, this isn’t for you, but if you don’t mind normal life sounds combined with nature and beautiful views, this is your place. We heard lots of animals and wildlife. It is a perfect spot to find trails all over, you are close to the gorge and we went there and all over every day. Everything was close enough, but felt far away enough. Beattyville is such a cute little town and we quickly fell in love with it and the community. This is our third time being around that general area/gorge and we love it more each time. We already can’t wait to make this a yearly thing and come back to serenity! Highly recommend this entire hipcamp!

Shell

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

We loved tent camping on this land not too far from Red River Gorge hiking. The deck offered a great place to sit and watch the sunset. There was a great short path to an overlook, too. Directions were helpful and easy to follow. A very quiet nights rest.

J

Joey

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

Amazing property with tons to explore. Host met us upon arrival and gave us all the details we needed. The overall property is rolling hills, fields, and forest. There are creeks, cliffs, rock walls, and more. The flat spot for an RV is plenty large enough for our little 17' RV, a table, and fire. Getting in and out with a large RV might be more of a challenge due to the layout. We pulled in on the right side of the hookups, and turned as far away from the road we could, but you really can't turn away from the completely. Maybe if you back in and cut just past the hookups? A larger RV might need to back in? Highway 11 is pretty noisy during the day (but has little traffic at night) as it is elevated from the campsite. The tent areas were probably quieter. The kids enjoyed the visits from the friendly dog, and we had another dog go on a hike with us. We got to pet the horses. 15 Minutes from Natural Bridge and driving distance to plenty of other Red River Gorge area hikes and sites. No picnic table provided (clearly noted in amenities), so bring a table with you!

B

Brad

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

Liz is a wonderful host with a beautiful place to stay. The facilities were very clean and well maintained and the the entire experience our group had was above and beyond the highest expectations anyone would have. Thanks Liz

Brooke

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

Possum Ridge Ranch is amazing. We camped at Oak Ridge and loved the site. We also explored a bit and walked down to Little Falls which was beautiful. Liz was very nice. The bath houses are clean and a nice surprise while camping. Would definitely recommend and camp here again.

S

Stephen

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

Liz is an amazing host. She came out to visit us and answered all of our questions. The space was a perfect spot for our hammocks. It is quiet and peaceful. There is firewood on site to purchase. The area is level and easy to traverse. We would love to go back and visit Liz. This is a must for anyone looking for a quiet getaway

Devon

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

This was an awesome experience! The animals were amazing, we were right on the water, we rented kayaks, we hiked, and we ate good! 10/10 you should definitely book this spot!