The best forest campgrounds near Owensboro, Kentucky

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Owensboro, Kentucky? Hipcamp has over 690 camping options available in the area, all surrounded by beautiful forests. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like Happy Hollow Homestead (441 reviews), Camp Nashville Highland Rim (148 reviews), and Barren River Magic (69 reviews) for a memorable stay. With popular amenities like pet-friendly accommodations, toilets, and campfires, and activities like swimming, hiking, and surfing, you'll have everything you need for a fantastic camping adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $7, you can find the perfect camping experience that fits your budget. Start planning your trip now and immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest!

99% (182)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Owensboro, Kentucky? Hipcamp has over 690 camping options available in the area, all surrounded by beautiful forests. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like Happy Hollow Homestead (441 reviews), Camp Nashville Highland Rim (148 reviews), and Barren River Magic (69 reviews) for a memorable stay. With popular amenities like pet-friendly accommodations, toilets, and campfires, and activities like swimming, hiking, and surfing, you'll have everything you need for a fantastic camping adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $7, you can find the perfect camping experience that fits your budget. Start planning your trip now and immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest!

99% (182)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Tar Springs 2

98%

(32)

27mi from Owensboro · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cloverport, KY

Historic property once a health resort in the 1840's, lodging rooms available, men's and women's restrooms and showers, lockers, kitchenette, optional breakfast, private 16 acre lake, fishing and boats available, dock, natural springs and rock formations enclose the valley, hiking, camping sites and primitive camping available. Original property was considered for a training camp facility for Mohammed Ali. For your safety, no arrivals after dark.

2. The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn

100%

(2)

48mi from Owensboro · 94 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Owensville, IN

Camp and gather at our family owned farm- The Farm-ish Momstead, also known as The Martin Family Farm. Available for primitive camping, day use, or event gathering. Amenities could include the use of the event barn for groups and events, a lake, fishing (bring your own pole and tackle, kayak or SUPs), bonfire pits, a shelter house, and a reliving farm experience if you choose to take part- beef cows, dairy goats (often including milking and goat kids), a mini highland cow, and chickens. Included in your stay is our resident Safety Manager, our collie Tilly. Please know she has a job to do and her best tool is her voice. You may hear barking as she keeps critters away. Other than that, she’s super friendly, although she may forget her manners at times and jump when excited.

3. Places of Sanctuary

99%

(71)

37mi from Owensboro · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Parkers Settlement, IN

Places of Sanctuary has 30 Acres of woods which include several dedicated hiking trails with beautiful clearings and benches for resting and reflecting along the way. You're welcome to fish in the pond that has plenty of shade and sun, or sit around the bonfire site where we have benches provided and roast marshmallows. With two easy-access large tree houses, bench swings and a big picnic shelter, there's lots of room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. You might encounter wildlife like: deer, mink, or geese, but you're sure to see our chickens and ducks running around and hear our rooster crow in the morning. Depending on the time and season, we offer several hands on experiences with berry picking, chicken tending, food processing, gardening, and general light land maintenance like checking the trails for down limbs and trash. With gorgeous views and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from University Southern Indiana or 15 minutes from restaurants and stores, we welcome you to camp with us. If you are interested in staying longer than 3 nights or your RV/camper is longer than 36 feet long, please message us to see if we can accommodate your visit. Usually we can!

4. Lincoln State Park

299 sites · Gentryville, Indiana

Lincoln State Park: A Tribute to Nature and History.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. John James Audubon State Park

87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky

Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

6. Valley View Lodge in Western Kentucky

47mi from Owensboro · 1 site · Lodging · Providence, KY

Come enjoy a cabin stay without roughing it! We are located in the heart of whitetail deer country in Western Kentucky. Featuring a small lake and a front porch complete with a swing, the cabin sits next to woodlands. A gas log fireplace stands ready for those extra cold evenings and the large attached garage is perfect for hunting gear and storage. The property is private yet close to the highway and less than 4 miles from food, fuel, and other essentials. There is ample parking and a fire pit! The space Our cabin is located within .5 miles of the Tradewater River boat access where you can launch a canoe or kayak. We are 20 miles from an Amish community where many locally produced farm goods are sold. In addition, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is approximately 50 miles away. Guest access There is additional open-air storage under the roof on the backside of the building. The garage has 2 doors that open to either side of the building which can create an open-air pavilion for rainy-day activities.

7. Live.Love.Lake

100%

(1)

43mi from Owensboro · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Leitchfield, KY

Relax, unwind, and take in the wonderful sights and sounds of nature with the beautiful river running through the backyard. Enjoy the firepit and quiet forest surroundings with your loved ones in our two bedroom, one bath home. Beautiful scenery from newly installed windows, bunk bed with additional roll out bed and sleeper couch, as well as coffee bar and private parking await you! As of Nov. 2022, the river is currently down in level due to winter but still a beautiful feature to see.

8. 15 Acre Wood on Lake

95%

(43)

43mi from Owensboro · 3 sites · Tents · Mt. Vernon, IN

300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.

9. Backer Half Hundred Acres

100%

(7)

32mi from Owensboro · 5 sites · Lodging · Saint Meinrad, IN

Great piece of secluded land with a cool fire pit and some great walking trails. Chairs and fire tools available. We have 62 acres in total, with a homemade suspension bridge, a tree house, chickens, goats, and a friendly dog. A small spring-fed stream runs right by camp. Plenty of nature to see and enjoy out here.

10. Hoosier National Forest

88%

(13)

252 sites · Paoli, Indiana

See the wilderness of southern Indiana from the Ohio River to just south of Bloomington.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

11. Ferdinand State Forest

57 sites · Birdseye, Indiana

Discover the natural charm of Ferdinand State Forest and its myriad of outdoor activities.

Campfires

Toilets

Potable water

12. Pike State Forest

100%

(1)

36 sites · Winslow, Indiana

Discover the natural splendor of Pike State Forest.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

13. Lake Malone State Park

25 sites · Dunmor, Kentucky

Discover Lake Malone State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

14. Little Blue Horse Camp

100%

(48)

49mi from Owensboro · 1 site · Tent · Grantsburg, IN

Enjoy some serenity in our little piece of heaven on the Little Blue River. A unique retreat, with access to the river, areas to explore, rock features, water falls and a ton of nature. We ask that you respect all the surrounding wildlife and plant life-- we are also a preservation space. Learn more about this land: Enjoy sleeping and waking to the serene sounds of the lazy Little Blue River and enjoy comforts of a cozy campground, nestled on private land in the Hoosier National Forest.

15. Old Camp At Bear Hollow

100%

(11)

43mi from Owensboro · 1 site · RV · Saint Croix, IN

This electric campsite is near Hoosier National Forest. This area was established as hunting grounds by our family over 30 years ago and still is to this day. Create your own family tradition in this campsite that is ready for two campers on a total of 160ft gravel space. There is both 30 and 50 AMP electric, however no water or sewer hookup. You must provide your own water. There is a dump station 5 miles from the campsite at Tipsaw Recreation Area. This area is great for hunting, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and ATV riding....or just relaxing and taking in nature in this beautiful and peaceful area. *30 & 50 AMP Electric *Shade trees *Picnic table *Firepit & Firewood *NO water hookup *NO sewer hookup

16. Buds Farm

47mi from Owensboro · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Irvington, KY

Private quite secluded area . May see deer. Wooded area . Snakes cattle. Potable water is available. No showers yet. Toilet. Not far from rough river. Or Louisville. No electricity. Plenty of shade for camp site . Fire pits. Shelter in barn if bad weather hits. Dog friendly. Do ask to keep on a leash. Great place if you want relax.

17. Harmonie State Park

202 sites · New Harmony, Indiana

Discover Harmonie State Park's scenic trails and historic charm.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Camper favorites near Owensboro

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Valley View Lodge in Western Kentucky

47mi from Owensboro · 1 site · Lodging · Providence, KY

Come enjoy a cabin stay without roughing it! We are located in the heart of whitetail deer country in Western Kentucky. Featuring a small lake and a front porch complete with a swing, the cabin sits next to woodlands. A gas log fireplace stands ready for those extra cold evenings and the large attached garage is perfect for hunting gear and storage. The property is private yet close to the highway and less than 4 miles from food, fuel, and other essentials. There is ample parking and a fire pit! The space Our cabin is located within .5 miles of the Tradewater River boat access where you can launch a canoe or kayak. We are 20 miles from an Amish community where many locally produced farm goods are sold. In addition, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is approximately 50 miles away. Guest access There is additional open-air storage under the roof on the backside of the building. The garage has 2 doors that open to either side of the building which can create an open-air pavilion for rainy-day activities.

Live.Love.Lake

100%

(1)

43mi from Owensboro · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Leitchfield, KY

Relax, unwind, and take in the wonderful sights and sounds of nature with the beautiful river running through the backyard. Enjoy the firepit and quiet forest surroundings with your loved ones in our two bedroom, one bath home. Beautiful scenery from newly installed windows, bunk bed with additional roll out bed and sleeper couch, as well as coffee bar and private parking await you! As of Nov. 2022, the river is currently down in level due to winter but still a beautiful feature to see.

15 Acre Wood on Lake

95%

(43)

43mi from Owensboro · 3 sites · Tents · Mt. Vernon, IN

300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.

Backer Half Hundred Acres

100%

(7)

32mi from Owensboro · 5 sites · Lodging · Saint Meinrad, IN

Great piece of secluded land with a cool fire pit and some great walking trails. Chairs and fire tools available. We have 62 acres in total, with a homemade suspension bridge, a tree house, chickens, goats, and a friendly dog. A small spring-fed stream runs right by camp. Plenty of nature to see and enjoy out here.

Little Blue Horse Camp

100%

(48)

49mi from Owensboro · 1 site · Tent · Grantsburg, IN

Enjoy some serenity in our little piece of heaven on the Little Blue River. A unique retreat, with access to the river, areas to explore, rock features, water falls and a ton of nature. We ask that you respect all the surrounding wildlife and plant life-- we are also a preservation space. Learn more about this land: Enjoy sleeping and waking to the serene sounds of the lazy Little Blue River and enjoy comforts of a cozy campground, nestled on private land in the Hoosier National Forest.

Old Camp At Bear Hollow

100%

(11)

43mi from Owensboro · 1 site · RV · Saint Croix, IN

This electric campsite is near Hoosier National Forest. This area was established as hunting grounds by our family over 30 years ago and still is to this day. Create your own family tradition in this campsite that is ready for two campers on a total of 160ft gravel space. There is both 30 and 50 AMP electric, however no water or sewer hookup. You must provide your own water. There is a dump station 5 miles from the campsite at Tipsaw Recreation Area. This area is great for hunting, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and ATV riding....or just relaxing and taking in nature in this beautiful and peaceful area. *30 & 50 AMP Electric *Shade trees *Picnic table *Firepit & Firewood *NO water hookup *NO sewer hookup

Buds Farm

47mi from Owensboro · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Irvington, KY

Private quite secluded area . May see deer. Wooded area . Snakes cattle. Potable water is available. No showers yet. Toilet. Not far from rough river. Or Louisville. No electricity. Plenty of shade for camp site . Fire pits. Shelter in barn if bad weather hits. Dog friendly. Do ask to keep on a leash. Great place if you want relax.

Public campgrounds near Owensboro

Lincoln State Campground

25mi from Owensboro · 299 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln State Park

John James Audubon Campground

26mi from Owensboro · 87 sites · Tents, RVs · in John James Audubon State Park

Tipsaw Lake Campground

37mi from Owensboro · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hoosier National Forest

Ferdinand Campground

40mi from Owensboro · 57 sites · in Ferdinand State Forest

All of the sites looked this good at least. Level and easy to back into.

100%

(2)

Indian Celina Lake Campground

42mi from Owensboro · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hoosier National Forest

100%

(1)

Pike Campground

42mi from Owensboro · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pike State Forest

Lake Malone Campground

47mi from Owensboro · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Malone State Park

Harmonie State Campground

50mi from Owensboro · 202 sites · Tents, RVs · in Harmonie State Park

Stories from the community

O

Owen

2 weeks ago

32 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Old Camp At Bear Hollow

Nice campsite. Provider was quick to respond and accommodating. Would definitely stay there again.

C

Cheryl

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

The rooms were nice and the property is beautiful! Hosts were very kind and helpful.

V

Victoria

November 2025

10 ft campervan

1 night at Live.Love.Lake

Excellent stargazing! We were just passing through, stayed in our van in the driveway and were comfortable. The is a lovely stone firepit with chairs in the yard with lake and star views. I expect it would be a great spot for hunters passing through or setting up for a while. Recommended!

Julia

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Places of Sanctuary

Beautiful property with loads of trails to walk the dogs. Farm fresh eggs were delicious for breakfast. Super-clean bathrooms. Hookups!

s

shylah

October 2025

With kids

3 nights at Tar Springs 2

I cat say enough about how awesome this place was and what an incredible value for the price! Chuck and Van were gracious and kind hosts and we enjoyed getting to know them while we were there too! The photos don’t do this place justice. The kitchen had everything we needed, the bathroooms were immaculate. Our kids loved fishing, playing with the dogs and exploring. Also Jeffrey’s cliff hike is a MUST!

C

Carrie

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

Our family had a FANTASTIC time at Tar Springs 2 with Chuck and Van. What a beautiful place! Everything was so clean and the sites were well spread out. The lake was perfect for fishing and the paddle boats were available for use. With water and firewood readily available it made things very convenient. The guest restrooms and showers were IMMACULATE! We felt so welcomed by them and their lovely pets! We were fortunate enough to be there during their Fall Festival and enjoyed the great bluegrass music in their outdoor stage, the food truck, and the fireworks. Really, nothing is more peaceful than watching the cows roam across the land while you sip your coffee by the open fire. Even with many sites filled, there was still a sense of quiet and being secluded. We really enjoyed this trip and are planning to (at least!) go back in the fall to enjoy the Sacagawea festival in September! Book this. What a beautiful place to rest your busy soul. Thank you, Chuck and Van. We can't wait to see how big the kitties get!

R

River

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Little Blue Horse Camp

This truly is a Perfect Little Spot. The hosts are wonderful and take thoughtful care with the place and the details. Favorite highlights are: the comfy chairs with cushions by the large stone wall fire pit, The composting outhouse is clean, cute and comfortable. The open grassy areas are super soft with the ground underneath, great for walking barefoot and feeling the goodness of the earth beneath your feet, also nice for the level areas for tent camping on the ground. The covered porch for hanging out is lovely, A great place to journal or read when the sun is high. I felt totally tucked away and private. Angie and Paige have made this a very special place.

R

Robyn

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

The area is just beautiful! We really enjoyed our camping experience here!

J

Jeremy

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

Amazing place. Omg just beautiful. We stayed up the hill under the cliff so awesome. Very very cool place. Gemma and I (that’s my German Shepherd) went hiking around and we loved it. Easy hike either direction but totally amazing-must do. Chuck is very cool, they both super good people and I truly thought the world of them in a matter of minutes. Very clean well taken of property. Facilities were all there and very clean. Probably won’t camp anywhere else unless leaving the state. I have to go back to experience the beautiful lake. Yes my brother and my older son showed up the next day and we a great time, setting around the fire telling stories. Best camping spot around.

A

Angela

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

Our family had an amazing time staying at Chuck and Van’s Tar Springs 2 campsite! They were wonderful hosts and made us feel so welcome!

A

Angela

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

We loved our stay at Chuck and Van’s! The privacy was amazing and the facilities so nicely kept! Hope to return for another weekend soon!

d

donna

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

Our stay here was wonderful! The scenery is breathtaking and so peaceful. Our host was so kind and showed us such a good time! This particular weekend had a food truck and a music band! The room was super nice and we were so pleased with all of the accommodations!!! We will definitely be coming back and hopefully get to stay longer!!!

M

Mindy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

The property is soooo cool. The rock formations were amazing. The history of the land is worth researching. Van was the friendliest of hosts and their puppy hosts was also very friendly. ❤️ 10/10 recommend. Thank you so much!!

D

Diana

September 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Places of Sanctuary

We had a wonderful overnight stay at Bill’s HipCamp! He was extremely accommodating and the property is fabulous with lots of walking trails. The bathroom was spotless and very new in one of his buildings. Nothing but rave reviews for this HipCamp!

J

Joyce

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

It is a beautiful relaxing place. We spent 2 nights in their room. It was a relaxing weekend end ,with very nice people. So Nice to meet them. And stay in their resort.

B

Brent

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Tar Springs 2

We really enjoyed this campground. It was well maintained and spread out. Our dogs loved running around in the fields. It was a much needed getaway. Would recommend 10/10

N

Noah

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

Great peacefull place. We caught many bass, catfish, and crappie in the lake.

M

Misty

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

From towering rock with seeping springs to a serene lakeside, there's no shortage of things to explore. Our cliffview room was well appointed with convenient amenities. Chuck and Van were attentive and fantastic hosts!

K

Krystal

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

Was a very beautiful place and one of a kind camping spot! We had a great time and the hosts were very friendly and welcoming.

S

Scott

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

It was a bit of a challenge to get here by bicycle but it was well worth the effort. The owners were more than helpful always looking to make my stay a little bit better. I would highly recommend staying here if you are in the area.