The best ranch campgrounds near Marion, Kentucky

In Marion, ranch camping means wide-open skies, rolling pastures, and a pace that lets you breathe. You’ll find over 40 ranch stays here—think horse paddocks, open fields, and a hands-on approach to the outdoors. Most spots run about $50 a night, with several options dipping as low as $25. Toilets and showers are standard, and campfires are welcome. Wildlife-watching draws a crowd, but you can also swim or scramble up rocky outcrops nearby. Start at The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews) for a creative, women-focused vibe. For something quieter, Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm (29 reviews) offers a slower pace and plenty of animal encounters. Riders should check out Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting (2 reviews) for trail access right from camp. Ranch camping in Marion is practical, unfussy, and all about connecting with the land.

99% (219)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Marion, ranch camping means wide-open skies, rolling pastures, and a pace that lets you breathe. You’ll find over 40 ranch stays here—think horse paddocks, open fields, and a hands-on approach to the outdoors. Most spots run about $50 a night, with several options dipping as low as $25. Toilets and showers are standard, and campfires are welcome. Wildlife-watching draws a crowd, but you can also swim or scramble up rocky outcrops nearby. Start at The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews) for a creative, women-focused vibe. For something quieter, Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm (29 reviews) offers a slower pace and plenty of animal encounters. Riders should check out Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting (2 reviews) for trail access right from camp. Ranch camping in Marion is practical, unfussy, and all about connecting with the land.

99% (219)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Art Farm

98%

(201)

44mi from Marion · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Paducah, KY

The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides. Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings. Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive) We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all. Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations. LGBTQ friendly. :)

2. Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

100%

(1)

32mi from Marion · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Stonefort, IL

50 well shaded campsites with three ponds, a playground for the kids and horse trails in the middle of Shawnee National Forest. Stalls available. Come hike or camp with us and visit nearby attractions like Jackson Falls, Garden of the Gods, Bell Smith springs and much more. 6 bedroom lodge available to rent just a room or the whole thing. Each bedroom has a private bathroom, tv, microwave and mini fridge. Full kitchen and living space available with a huge stone fireplace right in the middle. (Office is located in the lodge) We also provide primitive camping.

3. Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

99%

(35)

42mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Eldorado, IL

Off the Historic Goshen Trail that runs from mid-Illinois thru here to Alton, IL which is close to St.Louis, MO. Oldest house on the trail. 1922 farmhouse but homestead older than that. Learn more about this land: Tent or small camper welcome. Peaceful, farm work around you, fresh eggs available and friendly farmers. Firewood can be found in piles around the farm. Very quiet, wildlife crossings and lots of berries to pick.

4. Hitesville Opry House Park

100%

(1)

32mi from Marion · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Waverly, KY

We can accommodate up to 8 RVs or campers and many tents. Amenities: • Electric: • 1 × 50-amp service • 6 × 30-amp services • Water • Wi-Fi Our small horse farm is conveniently located in beautiful historic Hitesville, KY, nestled in the valley of Hunter Hill with views of rolling farmland. Watch for our music and band venues at the Hitesville Opry House, and check out upcoming events at http://www.hitesville.com . We play music from the past and today’s biggest hits. We’re a family-friendly venue, so please mind your P’s and Q’s—but most importantly, enjoy the shows!

5. Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

100%

(10)

33mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Stonefort, IL

Experience unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and the soothing sounds of nature during your stay in this expansive and distinctive retreat. Unlike any other private property in the vicinity, our land boasts an array of natural features including ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, bluffs, fields, forests, trails, and creeks scattered throughout. With several trails branching out in all directions into the Shawnee National Forest, exploration opportunities abound. Each of our spacious campsites is thoughtfully designed to afford maximum privacy, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed retreat into nature. Just a short 5-10 minute drive down the road, Burden Falls awaits, offering a scenic natural wonder to explore. The Garden of the Gods, another iconic attraction, is a mere 15-20 minute drive away, inviting you to marvel at its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic vistas. For added convenience and indulgence, homemade breakfast and lunch sandwiches are available upon request, allowing you to savor delicious meals without the hassle of preparation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the ultimate retreat experience at our unique property. ATTENTION- I allow animals, but they are NOT ALLOWED ON THE FURNITURE! If you let your animals on the couch/bed I will charge an extra fee for professional cleaning. Bring a dog bed/ cat bed etc.

6. Little Texas Farm and Lodge

100%

(3)

35mi from Marion · 1 site · Lodging · Grantsburg, IL

Located in the Southern Illinois Ozarks, this lodge and 600 acres are part of the Cache River Drainage area, an area recognized internationally as being ecologically unique. The Barn is located atop a limestone bluff; the property includes upland flora, wetland wildlife, row-crop fields, and has access on 2 sides to the Shawnee National Forest. Conveniently located to participate in the natural opportunities of S. Illinois.Learn more about this land:Bring the hot dogs and the beans, but leave the sleeping bag and tent behind. At Little Texas, you will spend your down-time in a 1600 foot, 3 BR, 3 bath lodge located 2/3 mile off the closest gravel road. Little Texas is a place for those who love the isolation of camping but also the amenities of a lodge/home. Full kitchen. Sleeps 8. Step outside for a view of the yard, the working windmill, the fields, trees, and the pond. Test your skill at sorting constellations from the spectacular array of stars. Located in Southernmost Illinois, the property sits on a limestone outcrop of the Ozarks which extend from Arkansas and Missouri across S. Illinois into westernmost Kentucky. Bordered on 2 sides by the 260,000 acre Shawnee National Forest, nature is literally just outside the door. When the hiker sits still, nature comes alive: deer, turkey, raccoons, skunks, beavers, and lots of birds.

Stories from the community

W

William

3 weeks ago

28 ft toy hauler

With pets

2 nights at Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

The peace and quiet and having the horses around was so cool and perfectly timed for the rest that I needed. The lodge is awesome and brings back scouting memories.

Brie

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Art Farm

We had a nice time at Laura’s. Kindly showed us where everything was, was very respectful and we felt very safe there. The cats were adorable too!

S

Sheldon

November 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at The Art Farm

Laura’s camp space was great. Perfectly flat for our van and very quiet. We had a lovely evening.

A

Alex

November 2025

Tent

1 night at The Art Farm

Even if you stay just one night to break up travel (as I did), I highly recommend the Art Farm. The spaciousness of the camp was a delight. I arrived at the property around 9 pm, and Laura graciously showed me a secluded site towards the back of the tract. The nearest camper was far away, and though it was mid-November when I stayed, I could still envision seclusion in a busier season. The land was well-maintained, and Laura offers a variety of camping spots. Paducah was also well worth seeing- a lovely town right along the Ohio River with several cool spots! I’ll be back!

M

Michael

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Hitesville Opry House Park

This place was fantastic! The host, Dick Wolfe, was so friendly and accommodating. He had a great campfire already going for us when we arrived. Plenty of extra firewood, access to electricity, and perhaps the cleanest portable bathroom I’ve ever seen. It’s a family business, and Dick makes you feel like you’re extended family. We will be back this way, and we’ll be camping here!

Beautiful RV site in rolling Western Kentucky farm country. Close to all amenities, Paducah and I-24. Both 30 amp and 110 outlets, water spigot, hot tub and outdoor shower.

E

Elizabeth

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Art Farm

I loved camping on Laura's land! Porta-potty, shower, and hot tub are all near the site. It looks quiet, and the view across the field was lovely!

Hayley

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

Beautiful, private campsite that is right next to the national forest. We had a wonderful night here!

Beth

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

This is a lovely camp site near a small pond and a 5 minute walk to a new and very clean out house. Our camp hosts were very hospital, friendly and accommodating. They brought us lots of fire wood as it was pretty cold when we stayed there. We spent many hours around the large fire ring just talking and enjoying the quiet. We did not have clear skies so we weren't able to take advantage of the star gazing, but the area is free from light pollution and the nearby field would give you lots of space to star gaze. I highly recommend this site.

L

Lorie

October 2025

1 night at The Art Farm

Tho cozy cabin was cozy! The place is lovely and peaceful. I enjoyed the fire pit and the millions of stars! I will be back when I can spend a few days. Laura the host was so friendly and made sure I had everything I needed.

T

Tim

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

Amazing location and hospitality! Great hosts and feels like you have the National Forest and all its wonder to yourselves.

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at The Art Farm

Loved staying here! I spent a total of four days in the woods and it was the perfect spot to stay in the evening. I especially loved that the tent area was shaded while the camping pit was just a few feet away under the open sky. I didn’t have a hammock with me, but wished that I did because there were so many great spots to hang it. Having the shower was a blessing as well. It was great to be able to start the morning with a hot rinse.

Scott

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

Tent camping here is great. The folks I met were all very friendly and helpful. The place is an operational farm with chickens, geese, horses and lots of cats. Directions were clear and straight forward. You are very close to the small town of Eldorado Illinois and they have a great pizza place, mimmos and the Mexican restaurant in town I was told is very good. Very unique experience camping on active farm. Enjoyed it very much.

C

Courtney

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Little Texas Farm and Lodge

This was our second time coming here! Great place to stay!

L

LYNN F

September 2025

15 ft campervan

2 nights at The Art Farm

I loved the setting and all the amenities . Laura is a wonderful and welcoming host! Very beautiful and peaceful! This is on my list for a return visit.

Michael

September 2025

Tent

1 night at The Art Farm

A truly beautiful location on a privately owned farm. My site was private, clean and comfortable. As a veteran HipCamper, I've come to realize that you're going to have some road noise if you're anywhere close to your travel route. This was no exception, but completely manageable and I was very happy to stay here twice; once in each direction of my journey.

J

Jeff

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at The Art Farm

We had a very nice stay at Laura’s farm. We had the pick of where we wanted to set up camp and we chose the Picnic Tree. We took a short walk to take a dip in the hot tub and showered off in the outdoor shower.

M

Melissa

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Art Farm

The outdoor shower with on demand water heater could have been the best part but we were given a firefly show over the bean field that made it magical! Communication with Laura was efficient and she responded quickly to our questions. Beautiful space.

E

Elizabeth

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Art Farm

Great spot to camp! The shower and hot tub were such lovely additions to the experience. Very peaceful — and the thick grass made a very comfortable surface for my tent/thermarest and sleeping bag. Laura was a great host, very welcoming!