Camping near Lexington

·

Drive 1.5 hours east of Louisville to enjoy the farm country along the way to Lexington and its charming surrounds. Lexington offers a perfect base for a camping adventure—while the city’s parks and trails are worth a visit, it’s the wider Bluegrass region that draws campers with famous horse farms and equestrian culture. Between rides, hikes, and outdoor adventures, you can venture out to a plethora of nearby camping hot spots, including the Red River Gorge within the Daniel Boone National Forest and Natural Bridge State Resort Park, which showcases natural sandstone bridges as an ideal spot for camping amid the beauty of Kentucky's wilderness.

96% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Property Map

6. Red Gate Hollow @ Horns River

38mi from Lexington-Fayette · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Irvine, KY
The property is tucked away from a side street with a small access drive. The hallow is sloping up to the underside of cliffs, surrounding the property on 3 sides. Climb to overlook the Valley and discover any of the 6 springs... or find a new one. They all converge into a beautiful creek. Enjoy the creek-side quiet and explore the landscape to find native wildlife. Blueberry bushes growing wild on the property. Test your off-grid skills but beware of some of the more dangerous local wildlife. NO FIRES. NO GUNFIRE. NO FIRES. There are 2 designated camping areas creekside, see the property map for locations. Vehicles must stay before the gate at AREA 1. Mind the 8' clearance at the access road! Larger vehicles may want to stay at AREA 1. AREA 2 is behind the gate and is accessible by foot only. The access road gets you close to the gate to park. This area is in the process of being cleared for better access but can be used already. Be safe and have fun exploring!
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
Little Slice of Heaven <3

7. Little Slice of Heaven <3

100%
(75)
43mi from Lexington-Fayette · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bloomfield, KY
Learn more about this land: I live on 5.5 acres. It's peaceful and quiet and I love it here. I've stayed at other hip camps and simply decided that I would love to share my little slice of heaven with others passing through my area.  Notes: there is a wee bit of road noise, I live on a dead end road, there are 10 acres between my 5 acres and the Blue Grass Parkway.  I find it peaceful here and can easily ignore it but I'm mentioning it so your not surprised by it  ;)  The Neighbors dog may come visit while you are here but is very nice and leaves if you tell him to :) You are welcome to hang a hammock in a small section of woods, by a small pond, or even on my covered porch. You are welcome to pitch a tent anywhere you like. You are welcome to park an RV or vehicle in the drive.  The drive is about 250ft long, you would need to back in in order to hook up to the 50 amp plug. RV's can use the 50 amp plug (30 amp will need an adapter. I have one you can use if you don't own one of your own) and hose for water. I have an outdoor shower and a camping toilet. I am ... - one hour from Lexington, Louisville, Elizabethtown, and Frankfort.- 1 mile from a mini mart with Gas, Ice, Pizza, Chicken Wings, Sandwiches, ect.- 6 miles from Dollar General and A pizza Restaurant - 15 ish miles from Wal-mart and other chain stores and restaurants I'm a great travel guide so feel free to tell me what your in town for or things you like to do. I will happily make you up a list of things to do and see and places to eat. Keenland, Churchill Downs, The Bourbon Tour (Jim Beam, Makers Mark, Heaven Hill, and many others) are within an hour of here. Also within an hour are 2 great bike paths, wonderful hiking and kayaking. As well as Great Shopping and Restaurants. Anything your heart desires. Using GPS Directions i would suggest avoiding Tunnel Mill Rd and Murphy Lane if towing a camper or driving an RV.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$37
 / night
Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

8. Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

88%
(21)
41mi from Lexington-Fayette · 13 sites · RVs, Lodging · Stanton, KY
Welcome to Red River Gorge Glamping Resort, a boutique woodland retreat tucked into 13 acres of forest, meadows, and starlit sky in the Appalachian foothills. Designed for slow mornings, campfire nights, and meaningful connection, our property blends rustic charm with thoughtful comforts across canvas bell tents, cozy cabins, and RV-friendly sites. Wake up to birdsong drifting through the trees, sip coffee while mist rises from the hills, and wander the network of footpaths that connect each lodging to the communal fire pit, outdoor gathering meadow, and our modern bathhouse with hot showers and clean restrooms. A brand-new shared hot tub sits in the center of the meadow—perfect for warming up after a winter hike or unwinding under a canopy of stars. Every space is crafted to feel inviting and soulful: warm lighting, soft bedding, rugs underfoot, heaters and electric blankets in the tents, and special touches like complimentary s’mores kits for campfire nights. Cabins offer added privacy, wooded decks, lofted sleeping spaces, and peaceful views of the surrounding hills and horse pastures. Located just 25 minutes from Natural Bridge State Park and minutes from iconic Red River Gorge trails, climbing crags, and scenic overlooks, this is an ideal basecamp for adventure—whether you’re here to hike, climb, explore, meditate, write, or simply breathe. At night, gather under the stars, soak in the hot tub, or settle into the quiet stillness that defines life in the Gorge. In the morning, wander to our open meadow for sunrise views, stretch out with yoga, or stroll the property’s paths with a cup of something warm. We are a work in progress—intentionally. New features, artistic touches, and community spaces are always unfolding as we slowly shape this land into a woodland sanctuary for travelers, dreamers, families, and nature lovers alike. Come reconnect with yourself, with each other, and with the natural world. Your spot by the fire is waiting.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Three Springs Campground RV Park

14. Three Springs Campground RV Park

89%
(19)
31mi from Lexington-Fayette · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Map of the property.

17. Boone Valley Campground

96%
(139)
49mi from Lexington-Fayette · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Beattyville, KY
Boone Valley Campground is a family owned and operated business that offers 30 acres of primitive, RV, and Van camping. Conveniently located only 1 mile away from the Pendergrass Murray Recreational Preserve, 7 miles from the Miller Fork Recreational Preserve, and 15 miles from the Natural Bridge State Resort Park and Red River Gorge Area. Boone Valley is perfect for outdoor adventurers and families who want to spend and enjoyable weekend in nature. Ask us about guided OHV Tours in the area! We offer guided tours! New! 2 Nights camping at Buckhorn Lake State Park. Including Pontoon Guide all day. Price is $300 for 2 people. Max group allowed is 6. Offer available from July - September. Concessions Truck on the property! Enjoy local events! Boone Valley is located 5 miles from downtown Beattyville, KY. Camp with us on weekends of local festivals such as the Bourbon and Moonshine Festival and the Woolly Worm Festival. Onsite enjoy weekend live music, bonfires, and home cooking from the Boone Valley Kitchen.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

18. The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

99%
(135)
47mi from Lexington-Fayette · 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***)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$59
 / night
Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!

19. Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!

100%
(29)
47mi from Lexington-Fayette · 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).
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$127
 / night

Drive 1.5 hours east of Louisville to enjoy the farm country along the way to Lexington and its charming surrounds. Lexington offers a perfect base for a camping adventure—while the city’s parks and trails are worth a visit, it’s the wider Bluegrass region that draws campers with famous horse farms and equestrian culture. Between rides, hikes, and outdoor adventures, you can venture out to a plethora of nearby camping hot spots, including the Red River Gorge within the Daniel Boone National Forest and Natural Bridge State Resort Park, which showcases natural sandstone bridges as an ideal spot for camping amid the beauty of Kentucky's wilderness.

96% (2.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Property Map

6. Red Gate Hollow @ Horns River

38mi from Lexington-Fayette · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Irvine, KY
The property is tucked away from a side street with a small access drive. The hallow is sloping up to the underside of cliffs, surrounding the property on 3 sides. Climb to overlook the Valley and discover any of the 6 springs... or find a new one. They all converge into a beautiful creek. Enjoy the creek-side quiet and explore the landscape to find native wildlife. Blueberry bushes growing wild on the property. Test your off-grid skills but beware of some of the more dangerous local wildlife. NO FIRES. NO GUNFIRE. NO FIRES. There are 2 designated camping areas creekside, see the property map for locations. Vehicles must stay before the gate at AREA 1. Mind the 8' clearance at the access road! Larger vehicles may want to stay at AREA 1. AREA 2 is behind the gate and is accessible by foot only. The access road gets you close to the gate to park. This area is in the process of being cleared for better access but can be used already. Be safe and have fun exploring!
Pets
from 
$25
 / night
Little Slice of Heaven <3

7. Little Slice of Heaven <3

100%
(75)
43mi from Lexington-Fayette · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bloomfield, KY
Learn more about this land: I live on 5.5 acres. It's peaceful and quiet and I love it here. I've stayed at other hip camps and simply decided that I would love to share my little slice of heaven with others passing through my area.  Notes: there is a wee bit of road noise, I live on a dead end road, there are 10 acres between my 5 acres and the Blue Grass Parkway.  I find it peaceful here and can easily ignore it but I'm mentioning it so your not surprised by it  ;)  The Neighbors dog may come visit while you are here but is very nice and leaves if you tell him to :) You are welcome to hang a hammock in a small section of woods, by a small pond, or even on my covered porch. You are welcome to pitch a tent anywhere you like. You are welcome to park an RV or vehicle in the drive.  The drive is about 250ft long, you would need to back in in order to hook up to the 50 amp plug. RV's can use the 50 amp plug (30 amp will need an adapter. I have one you can use if you don't own one of your own) and hose for water. I have an outdoor shower and a camping toilet. I am ... - one hour from Lexington, Louisville, Elizabethtown, and Frankfort.- 1 mile from a mini mart with Gas, Ice, Pizza, Chicken Wings, Sandwiches, ect.- 6 miles from Dollar General and A pizza Restaurant - 15 ish miles from Wal-mart and other chain stores and restaurants I'm a great travel guide so feel free to tell me what your in town for or things you like to do. I will happily make you up a list of things to do and see and places to eat. Keenland, Churchill Downs, The Bourbon Tour (Jim Beam, Makers Mark, Heaven Hill, and many others) are within an hour of here. Also within an hour are 2 great bike paths, wonderful hiking and kayaking. As well as Great Shopping and Restaurants. Anything your heart desires. Using GPS Directions i would suggest avoiding Tunnel Mill Rd and Murphy Lane if towing a camper or driving an RV.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$37
 / night
Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

8. Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

88%
(21)
41mi from Lexington-Fayette · 13 sites · RVs, Lodging · Stanton, KY
Welcome to Red River Gorge Glamping Resort, a boutique woodland retreat tucked into 13 acres of forest, meadows, and starlit sky in the Appalachian foothills. Designed for slow mornings, campfire nights, and meaningful connection, our property blends rustic charm with thoughtful comforts across canvas bell tents, cozy cabins, and RV-friendly sites. Wake up to birdsong drifting through the trees, sip coffee while mist rises from the hills, and wander the network of footpaths that connect each lodging to the communal fire pit, outdoor gathering meadow, and our modern bathhouse with hot showers and clean restrooms. A brand-new shared hot tub sits in the center of the meadow—perfect for warming up after a winter hike or unwinding under a canopy of stars. Every space is crafted to feel inviting and soulful: warm lighting, soft bedding, rugs underfoot, heaters and electric blankets in the tents, and special touches like complimentary s’mores kits for campfire nights. Cabins offer added privacy, wooded decks, lofted sleeping spaces, and peaceful views of the surrounding hills and horse pastures. Located just 25 minutes from Natural Bridge State Park and minutes from iconic Red River Gorge trails, climbing crags, and scenic overlooks, this is an ideal basecamp for adventure—whether you’re here to hike, climb, explore, meditate, write, or simply breathe. At night, gather under the stars, soak in the hot tub, or settle into the quiet stillness that defines life in the Gorge. In the morning, wander to our open meadow for sunrise views, stretch out with yoga, or stroll the property’s paths with a cup of something warm. We are a work in progress—intentionally. New features, artistic touches, and community spaces are always unfolding as we slowly shape this land into a woodland sanctuary for travelers, dreamers, families, and nature lovers alike. Come reconnect with yourself, with each other, and with the natural world. Your spot by the fire is waiting.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Three Springs Campground RV Park

14. Three Springs Campground RV Park

89%
(19)
31mi from Lexington-Fayette · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Map of the property.

17. Boone Valley Campground

96%
(139)
49mi from Lexington-Fayette · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Beattyville, KY
Boone Valley Campground is a family owned and operated business that offers 30 acres of primitive, RV, and Van camping. Conveniently located only 1 mile away from the Pendergrass Murray Recreational Preserve, 7 miles from the Miller Fork Recreational Preserve, and 15 miles from the Natural Bridge State Resort Park and Red River Gorge Area. Boone Valley is perfect for outdoor adventurers and families who want to spend and enjoyable weekend in nature. Ask us about guided OHV Tours in the area! We offer guided tours! New! 2 Nights camping at Buckhorn Lake State Park. Including Pontoon Guide all day. Price is $300 for 2 people. Max group allowed is 6. Offer available from July - September. Concessions Truck on the property! Enjoy local events! Boone Valley is located 5 miles from downtown Beattyville, KY. Camp with us on weekends of local festivals such as the Bourbon and Moonshine Festival and the Woolly Worm Festival. Onsite enjoy weekend live music, bonfires, and home cooking from the Boone Valley Kitchen.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

18. The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

99%
(135)
47mi from Lexington-Fayette · 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***)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$59
 / night
Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!

19. Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!

100%
(29)
47mi from Lexington-Fayette · 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).
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$127
 / night

Camper favorites near Lexington-Fayette

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Lexington-Fayette

Stories from the community

Other options near Lexington-Fayette

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Lexington guide

Where to go

Jacobson Park

Just 20 minutes from Lexington, the 216-acre Jacobson Park is a local favorite for outdoor fun including pedal boats, kayaking, lake fishing, and walking trails. A number of Hipcamps and other campgrounds dot the surrounding area nearby. Meanwhile, the famed Kentucky Horse Park also sits close to Lexington, 20 minutes’ drive away on the other side of the city outskirts.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

A 90-minute drive southeast of Lexington, Natural Bridge State Resort Park is known for its natural sandstone bridge and winding hiking trails. Campers can hike to the arch, take in panoramic views, and go tent camping in the Natural Bridge campgrounds, most of which link up to the Red River Gorge.

Red River Gorge

This is Kentucky’s most famous outdoor destination, notable for hiking, incredible rock climbing, and camping. Head 1.5 hours southeast of Lexington to the Red River Gorge for camping within Daniel Boone National Forest, home to wild trails and epic overlooks created over time by the Wild and Scenic Red River. Horseback riding and rock climbing serve as the primary day-time activities for campers who sit back by the campfire come nightfall.

Cave Run Lake

Two-hundred miles of shoreline? Yes, please. With that much space, Cave Run Lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and camping within Daniel Boone National Forest. Visitors can get out on the water, hang on the sandy beaches, go fishing from one of two marinas, explore the surrounding forest, and set up camp for the night.

Mammoth Cave National Park

About 1.5 hours southwest of Lexington, the UNESCO-listed Mammoth Cave National Park makes up the world's longest cave system. Explore the cave, go hiking, and keep an eye out for wildlife at one of Kentucky’s most famous outdoor spots. Although you can’t camp inside the cave, the park’s designated campgrounds provide plenty of options for tent campers and RVers.

When to go

Lexington is a year-round destination that experiences a full four seasons. The peak summer can see high temperatures and humidity, while spring and fall are best for camping. Fall is especially nice for cool evenings and warm days with colorful foliage. Winter is surprisingly mild on most days as well—snow can accumulate on occasion, but for the most part, temperatures are cool but freezing.