Camping near Loretto with wildlife watching

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96% (811 reviews)

United States
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Kentucky
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Loretto

96% (811 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Loretto

Community favorites near Loretto

Public campgrounds near Loretto

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(2)

My Old Kentucky Home Campground

39 sites · RVs, Tents In My Old Kentucky Home

100%

(2)

Taylorsville Lake Campground

70 sites · RVs, Tents In Taylorsville Lake State Park

100%

(1)

Smith Ridge Campground

80 sites · RVs, Tents In Green River Lake

100%

(1)

Pikes Ridge Campground

59 sites · RVs, Tents In Green River Lake

Mammoth Cave Campground is really beautiful.

98%

(26)

Mammoth Cave Campground

109 sites · RVs, Tents In Mammoth Cave National Park

100%

(2)

Wax Campground

110 sites · RVs, Tents In Nolin River Lake

100%

(1)

Dog Creek Campground

70 sites · RVs, Tents In Nolin River Lake

Green River Lake Campground

229 sites · RVs, Tents In Green River Lake State Park

Holmes Bend Campground

125 sites · RVs, Tents In Green River Lake

Stories from the community

Aerial view of campsite number two with mowed grass entrance. This site is the closest to the bathroom and creek entrance.

2 nights at Camp Escape

This is a great spot outside of the city! I stayed here two nights with my two cats and we felt safe and comfortable. There is a train that goes by and is pretty loud in the night and during the day. It didn't bother me much but just something to know. I am so happy I found this spot and if I go through KY again, I will be staying here again! Porta potty was super clean and close by. Other than the train, this spot is quiet and so peaceful with the sound and sight of beautiful birds. Highly recommend this spot if you're looking to camp near Louisville!

Weekend Trip to Dragonfly Ranch camping with horses

We loved camping on Tonya’s land. She greeted us and offered firewood and extra accommodations due to the extreme weather. She was so friendly and welcoming. I would absolutely camp with Tonya again!

1 night at Bourbon Trail Campground

Fantastic hosts! Beautiful and private. Super accommodating in the midst of tornado weather too! Would definitely stay again!

1 night at Willow Pond

Willow Pond is a beautiful spot for a weekend getaway for a quick recharge in nature. There is enough room for a couple of tents but to not feel crowded. A picnic table and trash can (with trash bag!) were located at the site. The location is easy enough to access from Louisville or Elizabethtown, but still maintains a rural seclusion. I enjoyed seeing various songbirds, ducks and a heron; in the evening I also heard turkey, coyote and an owl. The pond is small, but well stocked - we caught bluegill and bass various sizes. Megan was very helpful with detailed directions and also responsive to any questions we had. I definitely recommend Willow Pond to anyone looking for a quick refresh, and I will be back again!

Weekend Trip to Willow Pond

Beautiful place to spend the night with everything you could hope for in a host and setting.

Weekend Trip to Lost On Purpose

Everything went great. The host is great with communication and the land is peaceful. Would always recommend this hipcamp

Weekend Trip to Camp Escape

its a nice little camp site a stream next to you and a park just a short drive

Weekend Trip to Camp Escape

Shelby’s space was really nice, not too far from the city, and conveniently close to Jefferson memorial. The sites are a little closer together than I thought, but they were not all full so we still had plenty of privacy. The creek behind the campsite was perfect for our dogs. I was under the impression that there were trails to explore from the campsite, there were not. Scott’s gap loop was a great trail about a mile drive away that we did the following morning. They had firewood on site for $8 a bucket! The property itself was gorgeous, amazing sunset. It was a little noisy with the train and neighbors, but not too bad. It was super nice to only drive 30 minutes to an awesome campsite.

2 nights at Lost On Purpose

True definition of secluded in nature. Was able to get in the creek and follow for miles all directions. Crystal clear waters flowing from up top and all the history it carries with it! Nothing but the sounds of deer calls for bed down, owls, the wind and the trees speaking to you, and stars at night. It was definitely a heavy feeling to have to leave, but I can’t wait to get back again this season and do some more exploring. I will say this is a primitive campers advantage for sure. The wind up in the mountain can cut and rain can come in at any moment. Temps about 10 degrees or so colder than actual. I prefer cold weather camping myself but if you’re not confident in your primitive skills, I’d stay to the warmer months. All in all, can’t wait to get back to this 125 acre beauty. Thank you for sharing what you have with us!

Weekend Trip to Buck Creek Sanctuary

Ken is SUCH a great host! He gave us a tour of his gorgeous property when we arrived and then provided fantastic recommendations for the area. As for the site itself--it's exactly what we were looking for! There's truly nothing better than being lulled to sleep by the sound of moving water and we had the magical experience of an otter sighting while sitting by the campfire. The site felt private and secluded while having the benefit of only being a 5 minute walk from our parking spot. Highly recommended!

Weekend Trip to Terrapin Hill Farm

Great spot for the night. Host responds to messages quickly.

2 nights at Old Mansion Farm

We had an incredible stay at the Old Mansion Farm in Versailles, Kentucky! Michelle and Curt were absolutely wonderful hosts—welcoming, accommodating, and always ensuring we had everything we needed for a perfect stay. The property itself is beautiful, offering a peaceful and unique getaway in a stunning location. From the charming historic atmosphere to the thoughtful touches throughout our visit, every aspect exceeded our expectations. We can't wait to stay with them again and highly recommend this spot to anyone looking for a memorable Hipcamp experience!

1 night at Camp Escape

Access was private and easy, the land was lovely! We had everything we needed!

1 night at Camp Escape

This tucked away camper was perfect for our roadtrip. We had a fantastic stay at Off Grid Van Life in Louisville! There was plenty of room, both in the van, and on the property, it felt private and peaceful, despite its proximity to the train tracks. The bathroom was clean and everything was super convenient and simple. We loved waking up to lots of bird activity in the morning and enjoyed the nearby stream. We hiked at Scott’s Gap just a few minutes away, which was a great bonus. 5/5 would definitely visit again!

1 night at Fire pit creek side

Great little campsite, it was easy to find! Definitely coming back!

Weekend Trip to Bourbon Trail Campground

I loved this place it was very comfortable I happen to have all 36 acres to myself but I parked up by the outhouse the family was very welcoming and the dogs were very friendly. I enjoyed my evening there and if I'm in the area I will go back

1 night at Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

This spot is wonderful and the hosts even more amazing! So friendly, helpful, and gracious. And that's not even adding in the beauty of the animals. We had a memorable night there, and would happy return if in the area. Great experience!

1 night at Fire pit creek side

Really nice site with a lot of space. Hosts were very friendly and made sure there was enough dry firewood since they had just received a lot of rain.

4 nights at Camp Escape

My first time using Hipcamp and did not not know what to expect but camp escape has nice large sites and really close to town for any supplies you would need. I would most definitely stay there again and refer it to everyone else that enjoys camping

Weekend Trip to Camp Escape

I loved this area so much! It was easy to hook, Shelby's instructions for directions and checkin was smooth and easy for my fiance and I who decided on a random camping night. Quiet and plenty of space in the camping area. We will definitely be back!

Available this weekend

Finding My Freedom Farm

1 site · Tent3 acres · Edmonton, KY

Star gaze at Freedom Farms. Feels like your on top of the earth in this secluded oasis. It’s a quiet beautiful place to feel free. Has a pond, a creek, hiking ravine, treasure hunting, plums trees, pears trees, peaches trees, and many wild berries bushes. Exotic roasters on display, walk where Daniel Boone walked. It is a land full of history. Creek has two small waterfalls. Chickens and rabbits run free here. Also you can bring your horse to ride the country side.

Hill and Hollow Farm

1 site · RV, Tent150 acres · Edmonton, KY

Imagine camping in the hills and hollows of South Central Kentucky on an organic farm. Hill and Hollow is a working organic vegetable farm with sheep and ducks and small fields nestled along the Flat Rock Creek. With access to forest hikes, fresh food and a meandering creek, camping here is a dream. Kentucky's finest lakes and Mammoth Cave NP are all less than an hour away

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Variety- pond, field, shaded

4 sites · RVs6 acres · Knifley, KY

Learn more about this land:Awesome location. Quiet with great views. Site has a .75 acre pond with great fishing. There is maintained wooded areas for great tent camping. There is a small level field for RV to pull in. This site is primitive- no running water or electricity. We can provide a generator for extra charge. Great privacy and wildlife viewing. Located 3.5 miles from Green River Lake and 15 miles from the State Park. Less then a mile from Casey Creek for great fishing, swimming, and floating. A lot of off-roading and hiking. Also the area is great for high lining horses and riding. Supply shopping or restaurants roughly 16 miles in any direction. Local country store or Dollar General is a ten minute drive.

12 top campgrounds near Loretto with wildlife watching

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Barren River Magic

82 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents75 acres · Edmonton, KY

WE DO NOT TAKE LATE-NIGHT BOOKINGS OR LATE ARRIVAL TIMES, IF YOU BOOK YOUR STAY AND CAN ARRIVE BY 6 PM LOCAL TIME WE CAN GUIDE YOU TO YOUR GLAMPING SPOT ONCE YOU ARE THROUGH THE GATE. 6 PM IS THE CUT-OFF TIME FOR ARRIVAL. WE APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE BUT WE HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO ASSIST GUESTS WITH LATE-EVENING ARRIVALS AND BOOKINGS. WE UNDERSTAND CIRCUMSTANCES OCCUR, SO PLEASE MESSAGE IF YOU FORESEE AN ISSUE THAT WILL CAUSE YOU TO ARRIVE LATE. Welcome to our serene and nature-filled property nestled right on the tranquil banks of the Little Barren River! If you're seeking a getaway that combines outdoor adventures with peaceful relaxation, you've found your perfect destination. Choose from cozy tent sites, convenient RV sites, or glamping stays. PLEASE NOTE, for our glamping stays, bedding, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows are to be brought along by guests. The Fox Den and Peace Pipe glamping sites are the only exception. Our location offers an array of water-based activities just steps away from your accommodation. Whether you enjoy kayaking, paddling, fishing, or simply floating lazily in a tube, the Little Barren River welcomes you to indulge in its beauty. For those eager to explore the surrounding area, you'll find an abundance of local fun activities to partake in. Explore the wonders of Mammoth Cave, Cave City, Horse Cave, Diamond Caverns, Nolin Lake, Barren River, KY Down Under, and Green River Lake, all within easy reach from our property. We understand that your four-legged friends are a part of the family, which is why we are pet-friendly! Feel free to bring your furry companions along for the adventure. Campfires are permitted on our property and firewood is provided! We have portable toilets available for campers to use. Additionally, there are two centrally located showers accessible to all campers. While the water may be lukewarm, it is heated naturally by the sun, embracing our commitment to eco-friendly practices. Our location boasts an abundance of nature and tranquillity, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the great outdoors. Whether you prefer fishing, boating, birding, or hiking, our property offers a natural playground for all to enjoy.

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Camp Escape

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Louisville, KY

Rustic Camping Near Jefferson County Forestry & Tom Wallace Park Welcome to our 5-acre corner lot, a unique mix of rural charm and city convenience. This primitive campsite is perfect for those looking to disconnect and experience nature while still being close to modern amenities. What to Expect: 🌿 Scenic & Secluded – Our property borders Jefferson County Forestry, with an entrance just 1 mile away, offering miles of trails and outdoor adventures. We’re also near Tom Wallace Park, a great spot for hiking and fishing. 🔥 True Off-Grid Camping – This is a bring-your-own-gear site. No water, electricity, or showers—just you, your supplies, and the great outdoors. A fire pit is provided, and there’s a shared porta potty for convenience. 🚜 A Working Farm Community – Expect to see and hear a mix of country and city life. You may hear wildlife, passing trains, tractors, gunfire from Knob Creek Range, and nearby neighbors working their land. It’s all part of the experience of staying in an authentic rural setting. 🏡 Tiny Home Retreat – Escape to your cozy tiny home retreat nestled on 15 private acres just outside Louisville. This 200 sq ft camper-to-tiny home conversion blends rustic charm with modern convenience. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this cozy space offers a peaceful and unique retreat. 🏙️ Convenient Location – Though it feels like a getaway, we’re just 5 minutes from Kroger, Walmart, and a variety of restaurants. Downtown Louisville is a 30-minute drive, and we’re 15 minutes from Fort Knox. If you’re looking for an authentic, off-grid camping adventure close to both nature and the city, this is the spot for you! 🌲🏕️

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Buck Creek Sanctuary

20 sites · RVs, Tents58 acres · Elizabeth, IN

Welcome to Buck Creek Sanctuary, a 58-acre botanical, wildlife and human sanctuary located near Elizabeth, Indiana. A place where people can connect with nature, each other, and themselves. “There are no unsacred places; there are only sacred places and desecrated places” -Wendell Berry Buck Creek Sanctuary is a place to return to the sacred. Buck Creek Sanctuary is designed to help bring the scared back into our everyday lives Ken’s guiding truth is that we are part of nature and must find our part to play within it by honoring all things as being sacred. He dedicates his life to personal growth, consciousness raising, health, and healing of the planet. He wants to share Buck Creek Sanctuary with others to allow them to connect with nature and the sacredness of all things.

Bourbon Trail Campground

10 sites · Tents35 acres · Lawrenceburg, KY

Primitive tent camping Portable Toilets Group fire pit Catch and release 1/2 acre stocked pond Perimeter walking creek Indoor Gathering 40×50 metal building Stone fence Epic Kentucky beauty on the Bourbon Trail in Anderson county 7 miles off both I64 and Bluegrass Parkway; directly off US 127.

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Lost On Purpose

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents125 acres · KY

Secluded 2br 1 bath private and quiet, not a neighbor in sight! We have hiking, biking and horse trails galore. Fishing in the pond is permitted with a barbless hook and catch n release! Rock hounders welcome to explore the creek beds, and bring your disc golf or archery bows- we have that too! You will never want to leave!

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Dragonfly Ranch camping with horses

4 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Cub Run, KY

Learn more about this land: This is a horse ranch so you can sleep in the company of horses or in the woods with them in the distance ( check if available/storm damage).We have rolling hills, beautiful views from the hill tops, valley with creeks and a waterfall when not in dry or draught and an abundance of wildlife. Also we're located 5-10 minutes from mammoth cave park border, hike, bike and horse trails, river, lake, blue holler atv park and so much more. If you are sensitive to animal noises you may bring earplugs. There isn't a bathroom/ shower house yet so we ask that you bring a port-a-pot of some sort. We're constantly making upgrades to the Ranch so we hope you enjoy your stay. Please refrain from feeding the horses or dogs because it creates a bad habit and folks that don't know how sensitive a horses gut is can possibly kill them. Respect privacy of others and pack out all that you pack in. Shut any gates you come through.please understand that my horses are of all ages and that includes young ones and babies and seniors as well. The young ones like to be nosey and are still learning what they are allowed to do and what not to do. They are naturally curious and love attention. If they think you have snacks , they can act like a pack of kindergarteners with the promise of cupcakes...we don't want that but because some campers think they are the exception and gave them snacks, it is something we have to monitor more closely. Remember they are animals and they will get into anything if it's left unattended. Please be a responsible camper and ensure we all stay safe and enjoy the experience.We have a section for folks to park in if they do not want to be so close to the horses as well. If you don't like horses or dogs please consider alternative camp site. Limited pet allowance...check before booking please. Also, we've had issues with the site and it offering horse time, ride, Q&A etc. for 5$. We've taken steps to fix this. But if you would like something like that it would be through the Ranch directly and as our time allows. Thank you for taking the time to read everything as well.

Fire pit creek side

3 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Waddy, KY

Learn more about this land: A quaint creek side retreat with a fire pit! Enjoy views and sounds of the creek from your campsite. Expect to see families of turkeys, deer, turtles, many beautiful birds and more! Chill out or walk along the creek Along our driveway as we work to grow our organic farm homestead. ** please note we have a few site options for camping which we are happy to tell you more about! Large RVs and campers are welcome but will likely want to stay in the area before our bridge (we are happy to send pictures). Long campers and RVs that are low to the ground may scrape / bottom out going across the bridge. Please don't hesitate to reach out with specific questions! We operate on a first come first serve basis and promise to get back to you asap!

Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

5 sites · Tents35 acres · 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.

Terrapin Hill Farm

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Harrodsburg, KY

The land that is now Terrapin Hill Farm has been a gathering place over the ages, and we have continued the tradition with music festivals, yoga retreats, weddings, and other celebrations. We believe that getting out in Nature... by camping, hiking, gazing at a campfire or at starry skies... is not only beneficial but necessary to our mental health. That's why we want to share our little slice of heaven with others.

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Willow Pond

2 sites · Tents120 acres · Cecilia, KY

Enjoy spectacular sunsets as you relax around the well stocked pond located in Hardin County KENTUCKY. ENJOY: Certified organic hay fields 1 acre stocked fish pond Quiet Evenings around fire pit Hikes around the farm Beautiful star gazing Farm harvests Sandhill Crane migration Within 1 hour: Mammoth Cave, Bernheim Forest, Bourbon Trail

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Canaan Land Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Columbia, KY

Our 300 acre farm was owned by a high ranking officer in the Civil war(not sure if it was North or South). Our log barn is one of the oldest structures in the area and is still mostly standing! We are a working farm with cattle, horses, and a lot of chickens, geese, ducks and turkey, bees, cat, and our dog. Local gossip says that a previous owner had a fish hatchery here and flew the fish out of the airstrip in the upper field. Apparently he was drunk and crashed his plane somewhere on the farm. We love the diversity and abundance of wildlife found here and hope you love it too!Learn more about this land:Campsites are on top of a hill in the forest above Big Creek, on a cliff line facing west. Campers enjoy the peace and privacy of nature on our Civil War era 300 acre farm. Walk down to the creek to wade, collect rocks, or bird watch. Beautiful native wildflower display in the springtime, and many opportunities for wildlife viewing year round. Green River Lake is 20 miles away and Lake Cumberland is 30 miles away.

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Old Mansion Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Versailles, KY

Learn more about this land: We are a 33 acre farm in the middle of Horse Farm country, surrounded by horse farms. We have a home built in 1796 on the property. We have a pond and lots of wildlife - birds, deer, rabbits, etc. You can park in the field next to the barn and have a great view of the horses in the fields. We are also at the top of a hill with great sunsets.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Taylorsville Lake State Park

Taylorsville, Kentucky

83%

(3)

Green River Lake

Campbellsville, Kentucky

99%

(40)

Mammoth Cave National Park

Brownsville, Kentucky

Green River Lake State Park

Campbellsville, Kentucky

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Loretto with wildlife watching guide

Overview

Looking to go camping near Loretto, Kentucky? Hipcamp has over 1500 options for you to choose from! Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, a spacious RV site, or a rustic tent spot, there's something for everyone. With average prices starting at $25 per night and options as low as $7, you'll find a campsite that fits your budget. And don't just take our word for it - check out the top campsites with rave reviews from fellow campers: Hones Pointe (352 reviews), Patrick's Point River Camp (263 reviews), and Rockcastle Riverside (225 reviews). You'll also enjoy popular amenities like showers, campfires, and potable water, as well as activities such as paddling, wildlife watching, and horseback riding. Get ready to embark on your next outdoor adventure!