The best campgrounds near Mount Sterling, Kentucky with swimming

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect campsite in the United States. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, we've got you covered. With over 1231 options near Mount Sterling, Kentucky, offering swimming as an activity, you're bound to find the ideal spot for your next adventure. Looking for reviews? Check out popular campsites like Hidden Lake Farm (359 reviews), Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), and Hones Pointe (352 reviews). From potable water and campfires to toilets, our campsites offer the amenities you need. Get ready to dive into a world of swimming, surfing, and fishing. So pack your gear and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the great outdoors. Average price per night is $25, with options as low as $12. Happy camping!

98% (1.1K) • 46 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mount Sterling

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect campsite in the United States. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, we've got you covered. With over 1231 options near Mount Sterling, Kentucky, offering swimming as an activity, you're bound to find the ideal spot for your next adventure. Looking for reviews? Check out popular campsites like Hidden Lake Farm (359 reviews), Fruitdale Farm (352 reviews), and Hones Pointe (352 reviews). From potable water and campfires to toilets, our campsites offer the amenities you need. Get ready to dive into a world of swimming, surfing, and fishing. So pack your gear and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the great outdoors. Average price per night is $25, with options as low as $12. Happy camping!

98% (1.1K) • 46 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mount Sterling

1. Hidden Lake Farm

100%

(1279)

30mi from Mount Sterling · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

Small family run private farm. A few primitive camp sites back by the lake. We do have a bathroom with shower at the barn by the entrance for use by guests. A portajon back by the lake. please message if you have any questions. We took a little break but are back.

2. Shasta Valley

96%

(58)

24mi from Mount Sterling · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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!

3. Whimsical Treehouses and Trails!!

100%

(31)

39mi from Mount Sterling · 6 sites · Lodging

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).

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

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Fort Boonesborough State Park

100%

(1)

163 sites · Winchester, Kentucky

Discover Fort Boonesborough State Park's historic charm and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. HomeGrown HideAways

100%

(85)

36mi from Mount Sterling · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

HomeGrown HideAways is a farm, lodging, and event facility nestled in a hundred-acre holler in the Appalachian foothills near Berea, Ky. Our lodging features treehouses, yurts, a bunkhouse, retro camper, water/electric hook-ups, and campsites. We also host weddings, retreats, and other events so advance reservations are required. For insurance purposes and the safety of our own livestock and pets, we do not allow guests to bring their pets/ESAs onto the property. Prepare to UNPLUG as we do not have cell service or wifi (there IS a landline for guests to make phone calls located in the Community Farmhouse). All guests from tent to treehouse have access to our solar-powered Community Farmhouse featuring a fully-stocked chef-inspired kitchen, restrooms, coin-op laundry, and upstairs multi-purpose room with a library and board games. There is also an outdoor kitchen area with additional cooking space including a grill, microwave, and sink (sink is closed in the winter so the pipes don’t freeze). Next to the Farmhouse is a massive pavilion with picnic tables for al fresco dining and firewood bundles to purchase. BRING CASH! Our seasonal bath house is generally open from April or May to October or November based on the prevailing temps. There are 4 flush toilets, 2 sinks, and 2 hot showers. The floors are concrete so we recommend shower shoes and you'll want to bring your own towels and shampoo/soap. The farm has a small playground, yard games, creeks, and a steep and rugged hiking trail that loops the mountain. We're also just 8 miles from the hiking trails at the Berea College Pinnacles, 8 miles to Owsley Fork Reservoir, 20 minutes to Anglin Falls, 12 miles to Berea, 35 minutes to Richmond, Ky, and a scenic hour to Red River Gorge. For other activities, restaurants, shopping, music, and more, we're happy to share our favorites, but highly recommend checking out the Berea Tourism website.

7. Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

99%

(215)

48mi from Mount Sterling · 5 sites · Tents

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.

8. Boone Valley Campground

96%

(139)

33mi from Mount Sterling · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

9. The Honey Hut

100%

(59)

6.1mi from Mount Sterling · 2 sites · Lodging

This is a small honey bee farm . Cabin is between ten acres of windflowers and our 5 acre pond. You may see deer, otters, turkey, or even a bald eagle we saw once. Pets are welcome but you must select the optional per pet / per day fee under extras . This money goes to the cleaning lady .

10. Natural Bridge State Resort Park

100%

(12)

75 sites · Campton, Kentucky

Discover Natural Bridge State Resort Park's stunning landscapes and adventures.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park

55 sites · Ewing, Kentucky

Discover history and nature at Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Kincaid Lake State Park

159 sites · Falmouth, Kentucky

Discover Kincaid Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

13. Carter Caves State Resort Park

100%

(5)

129 sites · Olive Hill, Kentucky

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Family Farm Experience

98%

(26)

34mi from Mount Sterling · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:What an awesome place for kids to experience farm life. Accessible on site is a shelter house, playground, farm animals for kids to see, feed or pet, and the privacy of a small working cattle farm to enjoy. We have a gas and wood pellet smoker, tv and DVD player, fridge and freezer, and tables under roof. There is a small game room in case of implement weather. Also have an above ground pool available in season. So much to do! Also local shopping in historic Maysville and Washington

15. Queenslake - Classic KY Horse Farm

93%

(44)

40mi from Mount Sterling · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A long time ago, in a land far away, there lived a beautiful princess who dreamed of a spacious and beautiful farm. She fancied horses running playfully in the pastures; plenty of goats, geese, chickens, dogs, and cats roaming freely. She saw herself sitting beside a large lake under a willow tree, sipping tea or lemonade every afternoon just before her nap. Then one day, a prince came along and said, "As You Wish." Queenslake is a 140 acre working horse farm with a 40 acre fishing lake with three barns and 30 horse pastures. Trails are located around the lake and through the forest for hiking, jogging, biking, ATV, horses. Great scenery. Awesome sunrises/sunsets.

16. Trace Space KY

100%

(20)

27mi from Mount Sterling · 1 site · Lodging

Ready to share your passion for an eco-friendly tiny camping cabin near Cave Run Lake and the Red River Gorge with someone who shares your love of sustainability and nature, too? This transforming aframe cabin is perfect for nature lovers, campers, and eco-conscious explorers eager to learn, see, and stay, leaving a wildlife-friendly footprint. The tiny cabin is a unique transforming A-frame camping cabin that occupies a compact area, certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a wildlife habitat yard and recognized as a certified garden and monarch waystation through monarchwatch.org. TSKY is located 3 miles from Long Bow boat dock on Cave Run Lake, 10 minutes from the Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail, and 18 miles from the adventures in the Red River Gorge. Outdoor seekers and enthusiasts will appreciate the nature trails, the lake's pristine waters, and the opportunity to explore the Daniel Boone National Forest or to simply rest and unplug. There are short hikes within a 20-minute drive, each offering its own unique discovery: arches, an overlook, a cave, and a 60-foot waterfall nestled within a small scenic canyon. With so much natural beauty to explore, your stay at our A-frame camping cabin is a perfect base place to Embrace Nature's Pace.

17. Red River Adventure

93%

(7)

23mi from Mount Sterling · 1 site

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!

18. Logan's Gap Camping Resort

46mi from Mount Sterling · 21 sites

Nestled in the picturesque Ohio Valley along Eagle Creek in Ripley, Ohio, Logan's Gap stands out as a family-friendly camping destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Our campground features 22 daily RV sites equipped with 30 amp electric and water hook-ups, along with 100 seasonal sites and options for primitive tent camping. While we do not provide full hook-up sites, a convenient dump station is available near the park entrance. Our camping season runs from May 1st to October 31st, making it the perfect getaway for both short and long-term stays. In addition to our camping amenities, Logan's Gap is ideally located near two historic sites associated with the Underground Railroad: the John Rankin House and the John Parker House. Just 25 miles east on Route 50, you can visit the birthplace of President Ulysses S. Grant. For those looking to explore beyond the campground, the charming towns of Maysville, KY, and Augusta, KY, are just across the Ohio River, offering a variety of shopping and dining options. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or a peaceful retreat, Logan's Gap is the perfect destination for your next family camping trip. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

19. D.J.’S Camp LLC

94%

(33)

27mi from Mount Sterling · 3 sites

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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Simple, 1-room bunkhouse made with salvaged wood, doors, and windows.

M

Mae

1 week ago

With kids

2 nights at HomeGrown HideAways

Wow where to start. The farm is beautiful. So much land to hike and enjoy nature. The hosts were so kind and helpful with everything. The bunkhouse was great - with good sleeping bags and some blankets it works great in winter. The farmhouse/kitchen was incredible. So cozy and everything you could need to cook great meals and feel at home. Honestly could not recommend this place more. Affordable, beautifully designed, warm, and so many thoughtful details like yummy coffee and tea. They have so many options to stay- great place for everybody!

Summers in the south get stupid hot. So I jumped in the lake. And I don't regret it.

L

Lucas

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Lake Farm

One of my favorite camping trips I've ever taken with Hipcamp! The host was the most accommodating and gracious host I've ever had, full stop. The property is gorgeous and the sites are spread out enough that it feels secluded and private. The facilities that were available were clean and stocked. Everything was 5 star worthy!

B

Bruce

2 weeks ago

4 nights at The Honey Hut

Nice private cabin. Very quiet and relaxing. Enjoyed the fire pit during the cool evenings.

m

meaghan

November 2025

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!

E

Evelyn

November 2025

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.

J

Justin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Boone Valley Campground

Nice quiet campground with clean showers and bathrooms for a great price

E

Ernie j

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Honey Hut

Loved this little cabin perfect little getaway for wife and I to say our vows the fishing the pond was great . Will definitely be back.

R

Robert

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Boone Valley Campground

Beautiful scenery. Was real nice chatting with Ben. Everyone was friendly. Would definitely come back.

H

Humberto

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Boone Valley Campground

Great experience camping here for the first time . We arrived and greated upon arrival the man showed us the spots available and let us choose whichever we liked . The sites are nice and spacious with a fire pit set up . Had a great experience and would recommend to anyone looking for a camping location. Gas stations and food spots are also near by .

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!

j

johnnasells

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at HomeGrown HideAways

Loved the location and the new (to me) kitchen space! Definitely felt safe and cared for on their property.

Todd

October 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

What a great experience. The spot was great, the kids absolutely loved the animals and Keven (aka Uncle Grandpa) was a super delightful host. We’ll be back!

Grant

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at HomeGrown HideAways

My daughter and I enjoyed a 1 night stay in our tent in the field. The community kitchen and bathhouse were top-notch. We look forward to staying here again.

N

Nikki

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Boone Valley Campground

Easy to find, great space with plenty of room to set up. Fire rings and shower house available.

M

Megan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

Absolutely fantastic stay! The kids roamed free and loved the animals. We hiked up the creek, which was so gorgeous and found the “witch’s” shed. Kevin was such a lovely host. We enjoyed getting to know him and the pets! We will definitely be back in the summer to swim in the creek and river.

J

John

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to HomeGrown HideAways

I thoroughly loved their quite farm! The host are exceptional! Their place is beautiful! Im terrible at writing reviews but I promise that I will be back and highly recommend anyone staying here

Ian

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

We loved camping on Keven's property! It was a gorgeous spot right next to the Kentucky River. There was a beautiful creek for the kids to explore. Keven was super helpful and welcoming. There were some friendly donkeys, goats, and a couple of horses all on the property, which made this trip pretty memorable for the kids. Overall we had a great time and would definitely return.

w

wendy

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wildcat Creek Farm in Tyrone

Keven was the nicest. Great communication, beautiful land, friendliest donkies, right by a beautiful body of water. Loved setting up my tent on grass! The only negative was the sandiness due to flooding earlier this year.

H

Heidi

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to HomeGrown HideAways

This place is perfect. The grounds are beautiful, the communal kitchen is huge, the Nook cozy, the outhouses clean, the hosts helpful. It was the perfect mix of being comfortable while being out in nature.

P

PEGGY

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to HomeGrown HideAways

We arrived late in the evening and out of season so there weren't many people about. Fortunately the host met us as we drove in and gave good directions about where to set up camp. It would have been helpful to have the leach line marked off so we could better avoid that area. Great soft grassy area (recently mowed) to camp on. Very close to the Pinnacles where we planned on hiking the next day.