The best campgrounds in Red River Gorge with horseback riding

Real-life adventure playgrounds rarely come as impressive as Kentucky's Red River Gorge. Carved out by the Wild and Scenic Red River and cocooned within Daniel Boone National Forest, the soaring cliffs, natural arches, and cascading waterfalls provide a dramatic backdrop for outdoor activities. Rock climbing is the quintessential pastime—"The Red" is one of the world’s top destinations—but you can also hike, horseback ride, kayak, or zipline. Four-season camping is possible at Red River, but we recommend spring or fall, when mild weather combines with seasonal wildflowers and epic fall foliage views.

98% (601)

Top-rated campgrounds near Red River Gorge

Real-life adventure playgrounds rarely come as impressive as Kentucky's Red River Gorge. Carved out by the Wild and Scenic Red River and cocooned within Daniel Boone National Forest, the soaring cliffs, natural arches, and cascading waterfalls provide a dramatic backdrop for outdoor activities. Rock climbing is the quintessential pastime—"The Red" is one of the world’s top destinations—but you can also hike, horseback ride, kayak, or zipline. Four-season camping is possible at Red River, but we recommend spring or fall, when mild weather combines with seasonal wildflowers and epic fall foliage views.

98% (601)

Top-rated campgrounds near Red River Gorge

1. The Honey Hut

100%

(58)

2 sites · Lodging · Mount Sterling, KY

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 .

2. Rockcastle Riverside

95%

(720)

50 sites · Tents, RVs · Livingston, KY

Started as a retirement experiment, Rockcastle Riverside is a story told of music and family. We have almost 200 acres of beautiful country surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest in Rockcastle County. With a mile of river to swim, kayak, and fish and enchanted forest trails to hike, climb, or play, we have all of the best Kentucky has to offer! We have more established sites with fire rings, or you can find a place off the beaten path for more privacy, if you choose. The riverside is perfect for hammock camping, too.  We love music and often host bands on the weekends. We rent kayaks and canoes on site, as well. While there are almost 200 acres to escape into, on any fine night, the stage sits wit a drum kit and the will to make music within the Daniel Boone National Forest. Come play, come get away....we have it ALL! We have a little of something for everyone!

3. Boone Valley Campground

96%

(139)

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.

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. The Harrican

98%

(30)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · KY

Learn more about this land:This is a beautiful 200 acre farm that has been in my family for over 100 years. My father (at age 93) still harvests hay on 100 of the acres twice annually. Primitive campsites range from soft and scenic rolling fields with mountainous backdrops to completely wooded areas with the wild Rockastle River within 1 mile from the property. Discover a rare campsite available between two cliffs that the Native Americans originally called home. It remains just as they found it. There is an easily accessible large flat cliff area perfect for multiple tents and campfires! However, if a little more comfort is your style, you can unplug and unwind in a two story cabin located on a beautiful and secluded 2 acre pond with a dock and pier that can be reserved for $85 nightly. I classify the Lakehouse Cabin as primitive glamping! Wildlife is present every single day! We are near two Wildlife management reserve areas and completely surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forrest. Deer, turkey and so much more can be observed daily in their natural habitat. This is truly an amazing and rare gem right here in our beloved Bluegrass State!

6. Mountainfire!

100%

(35)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · London, KY

This area is an old tobacco and cattle farm on a point above Laurel Lake. We do a bit of farming and crafting when we can and thought we’d try and share our lovely spot! Much of the timber on the place is nearly 100 years old hardwoods, with a couple of fields throughout. I camp here myself too, and can recommend it for privacy! Learn more about this land: You can park an RV or trailer on these private sites within a 10min drive or short walk to Laurel Lake! Gravel roads to a field capable of holding up to two trailers with more planned in time! Primitive sites, Quiet n private. These sites are also within 10 mi of both London and Corbin Ky, with services available at both. Scenic Cumberland Falls is a short 25 min drive, and this place is adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest with plenty of hiking nearby.

7. Trace Space KY

100%

(20)

1 site · Lodging · Wellington, KY

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.

8. Pine Tree RV Park

100%

(25)

2 sites · RVs · Frenchburg, KY

My campground has 2 gravel hookups. Each hookup has city water, 50 amp electric, and sewer hookup. If you need 30 amp, I will rent a refundable reducer for $20. My house is nearby. Beautiful Cave Run Lake is nearby. It is 6 miles from the campground. One can hike, fish, kayak, boat ride etc…. We are 21 miles from Natural Bridge and 15 miles from Red River Gorge!!

9. D.J.’S Camp LLC

94%

(33)

3 sites · Wellington, KY

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.

Camper favorites in and near Red River Gorge

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Harrican

98%

(30)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · KY

Learn more about this land:This is a beautiful 200 acre farm that has been in my family for over 100 years. My father (at age 93) still harvests hay on 100 of the acres twice annually. Primitive campsites range from soft and scenic rolling fields with mountainous backdrops to completely wooded areas with the wild Rockastle River within 1 mile from the property. Discover a rare campsite available between two cliffs that the Native Americans originally called home. It remains just as they found it. There is an easily accessible large flat cliff area perfect for multiple tents and campfires! However, if a little more comfort is your style, you can unplug and unwind in a two story cabin located on a beautiful and secluded 2 acre pond with a dock and pier that can be reserved for $85 nightly. I classify the Lakehouse Cabin as primitive glamping! Wildlife is present every single day! We are near two Wildlife management reserve areas and completely surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forrest. Deer, turkey and so much more can be observed daily in their natural habitat. This is truly an amazing and rare gem right here in our beloved Bluegrass State!

Mountainfire!

100%

(35)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · London, KY

This area is an old tobacco and cattle farm on a point above Laurel Lake. We do a bit of farming and crafting when we can and thought we’d try and share our lovely spot! Much of the timber on the place is nearly 100 years old hardwoods, with a couple of fields throughout. I camp here myself too, and can recommend it for privacy! Learn more about this land: You can park an RV or trailer on these private sites within a 10min drive or short walk to Laurel Lake! Gravel roads to a field capable of holding up to two trailers with more planned in time! Primitive sites, Quiet n private. These sites are also within 10 mi of both London and Corbin Ky, with services available at both. Scenic Cumberland Falls is a short 25 min drive, and this place is adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest with plenty of hiking nearby.

Trace Space KY

100%

(20)

1 site · Lodging · Wellington, KY

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.

Pine Tree RV Park

100%

(25)

2 sites · RVs · Frenchburg, KY

My campground has 2 gravel hookups. Each hookup has city water, 50 amp electric, and sewer hookup. If you need 30 amp, I will rent a refundable reducer for $20. My house is nearby. Beautiful Cave Run Lake is nearby. It is 6 miles from the campground. One can hike, fish, kayak, boat ride etc…. We are 21 miles from Natural Bridge and 15 miles from Red River Gorge!!

D.J.’S Camp LLC

94%

(33)

3 sites · Wellington, KY

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.

Public campgrounds in and near Red River Gorge

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(9)

Koomer Ridge Campground

108 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

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(5)

Turkey Foot Campground

15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

S-Tree Campground

20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

Clear Creek Campground

20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

White Sulphur Horse Camp

12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

100%

(1)

Zilpo Campground

103 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

100%

(1)

Claylick Boat-in Campground

13 sites · in Daniel Boone National Forest

Love Twin Knobs campground! And Cave Run Lake has the most amazing sunsets!!

100%

(7)

Twin Knobs Campground

66 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

100%

(2)

Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daniel Boone National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Justin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Boone Valley Campground

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

r

robert

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Harrican

The place is beautiful, clean well Taken care of! The owners are great! I’ve been twice in just a few months. I now have a favorite place to go.

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountainfire!

Gavin was a spectacular host, so kind and friendly, and his property was stunning. We are so grateful to have spent time there as a family and look forward to visiting again soon!

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.

I

Irene

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Rockcastle Riverside

This was my first experience with Hipcamp. It was super easy. I followed a winding road with pretty views, pulled in, parked and was good to go. There was a friendly cat and dog by the office to greet me! The bathroom with shower was quite near. I enjoyed seeing the stars so clearly, too. I was even offered hot coffee in the morning! I think that was because it got down to 32 degree that night. Overall it was an easy and pleasant experience.

R

Regina

October 2025

17 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Rockcastle Riverside

We didn't get to visit the store or go down to the river because we had some much to do in Richmond. We absolutely loved the peace and quiet at the campground. It was the perfect spot, clean, ever just as advertised!!!! Nice hot shower and clean bathroom!!! We definitely want to go 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 .

A

Abbie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rockcastle Riverside

We arrived after dark after Google maps to us the wrong way down a logging road that doesn't access the campground at all. Putting in the address instead of launching directions from the app will get you there easily, though. The sites were all nice and easy to find, even in the dark.

A

Amy

October 2025

26 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to The Harrican

My parents and my family of 5 camped for 2 nights in our small RVs at Harrican. Upon arrival, Bridgett led us to the sunset lookout spot to setup. It was so pretty and private. We had plenty of flat space to hang and play. We walked to the mile long river hike other reviewers have noted. It was a perfect total length (3.2 miles) and a water feature is always a hit on hikes with the kids. I would definitely recommend this special secluded spot to friends!

E

Eric

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Harrican

This property is absolutely beautiful — full of rolling hills, wide-open views, and big, mature trees that make it feel tucked away and peaceful. The layout gives everyone plenty of space; even with other campers on site, it felt private and quiet. We camped at the top of the hill with a few tents and one small camper. The drive up has a little terrain to navigate, but it wasn’t difficult at all — we even made it in the dark without trouble. You’ll be greeted by a couple of friendly, playful dogs when you arrive, so be sure to drive slowly through the entrance. The hosts were fantastic — very friendly and quick to respond to every message. It really made the experience feel welcoming and easy. There’s also a nice trail within walking distance that leads down to the river. It’s a moderately rugged path but totally worth it, with a great spot to relax once you reach the bottom. If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic spot with kind hosts and plenty of space to unwind, this Hipcamp is a gem. We’d definitely come back!

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.

D

David

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Rockcastle Riverside

Great place and staff is very nice. Lots of places to set up camp and roam around.

c

carla

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

1 night at Rockcastle Riverside

The vibe is groovy at the campground. The stars are so bright there. Just hanging, chilling at the river.

S

Sean

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

1 night at Rockcastle Riverside

This is a special place. It ain't fancy and when it is full for a huge music festival, you may need to plan your showers or fill the fresh tank and use your pump. But that is not the regular situation. There is a lot of space to roam, hike, bike and since it is on the river you can do river things. Rarely, the river gets high enough here to make camping iffy, but if you plan around that and have a backup plan, it is a great value and the music focus makes it more than worth a try. The road back to the property is mostly paved but has some gravel sections and frequently has spots that wash out or need repair but the road crews are usually on top of that, just be prepared for a slow 5 miles or so if you care about your rig.

K

Kathleen

September 2025

23 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Rockcastle Riverside

Peaceful quiet Large spots Loved it Interesting owner

S

Seth

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Boone Valley Campground

We needed a place to stay while in transit to Chattanooga. We enjoyed hiking around to see some arches and decided to stay at the Boone valley primitive campsite. We had a great time the bathrooms were nice would reccomened a bench and place to put cloths. But other than that it was great.

C

Corei

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Honey Hut

This was a very cute and cozy cabin on a private lot. Its has a great dock to sit, drink coffee, and read a book. The fire pit has a grate which was very convenient. The porch was idyllic and probably my favorite spot on the property. There were lots of birds and butterflies to watch. We had a great time.

K

Kip

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Boone Valley Campground

Secluded and wonderfully peaceful. Would definitely go back again.

N

Nichole

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Trace Space KY

We had a great experience. This trip was about introducing a friends 9yo to hiking and camping. MJ and Alex have a wonderful spot. Thank you both. The late summer wildflower garden and pollinators were great to show the 9yo how to observe bugs safely. I will recommend this place to others who travel to the Cave Run Lake and Red River Gorge area.

Nearby public parks

Browse national and state parks near Red River Gorge

97%

(33)

Daniel Boone National Forest

Whitley City, Kentucky

More campsites in and near Red River Gorge

D.J.’S Camp LLC

94%

(33)

3 sites · Wellington, KY

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping in Red River Gorge with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Central Red River Gorge

Follow the 46-mile Red River Gorge Scenic Byway for spectacular views across the gorge, admire the unique rock formations and natural arches along the Angel Window or Sheltowee trails, or put your rock climbing and rappelling skills to the test. Koomer Ridge campground is the only developed campground in the main gorge area, but you’ll also find private campgrounds, cabins, yurts, and treehouses with views of the gorge.

Northwest & Daniel Boone

The 900-foot-long Nada Tunnel marks the western entrance to the Red River Gorge, and some of the most renowned rock formations and arches can be found nearby. Further north, the Daniel Boone National Forest is nirvana for hikers, and self-sufficient campers can enjoy dispersed camping throughout the national forest land. Or, for a change of scenery, head away from the gorge to enjoy boating, fishing, and lakeside camping at Cave Run Lake.

Southwest & Natural Bridge

The Natural Bridge State Resort Park encompasses much of the southwestern region of the Red River Gorge, where you’ll find some of the most easily accessible hikes and campgrounds. Hike or ride the Skylift to the park’s namesake Natural Bridge, rent a kayak or canoe along the river, then check in one of the campgrounds or rent a cozy cottage. Nearby, Muir Valley is a popular spot for rock climbing, while Campton is the starting point for ziplining excursions across the gorge.

East & Clifty Wilderness

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, pack your tent and hit the trails of the vast Clifty Wilderness area. Dense forests, rugged ridges, and streams provide plenty of tranquil backcountry camping spots, or you can bring your kayak or canoe to paddle the wild waterways of the Red River. In the southeastern corner of the gorge, the Rock Bridge Trail is a perennial favorite, with views of the natural bridge and waterfall.