The best pets off leash campgrounds in 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% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

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% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Harrican Lakehouse

99%

(281)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · KY

There is a lot of history in this land. It's been in my family for over a hundred years. They worked the land with their hands and so have I. It's a special place. Come see for your yourself and be our guest at The Harrican! Learn more about this land: Unplug and unwind at this two story cabin built right on the water in the heart of the Kentucky Wildlands! Even though there is complete peaceful seclusion it does get a little noisy when the bullfrogs start their evening ritual. There is a dock and pier perfect for fishing or swimming. Firepit, grill with gas provided, two boats, fishing poles, lots of seating on the wrap around porch, two bedrooms; one with a queen bed and the other with two twin beds and just lots of natural beauty and peace! The BIG update everyone has been waiting for; the plumbing and electricity are now complete! We have all the ammenities to make your stay comfoetable and relaxing! Early and late check in and check out options available when availability exists the day before or after your booked stay. Thank you for interest in the Harrican Lakehouse!

2. Bar on the Mountain

97%

(156)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Beattyville, KY

*ADDITIONAL SITE ADDED* Check out our new site, Top Shelf added March 2024! Primitive camping at its PEAK! Located in the heart of Natural Bridge State Park and the Red River Gorge, this secluded camping ground offers an experience above the rest - literally! Accommodates tents and RV/campers 24ft and under. 360 degree views including a front row seat to an Appalachian Mountain sunrise! Minutes from Hollerwood Offroad Park, Gorge-ous climbing and hiking trails, fishing/boating/swimming at Mill Creek Lake, restaurants including Miguel's Pizza, Rockhouse, La Cabana Mexican, and Thatcher's BBQ to name a few! Close access to Hollerwood Offroad Park.

3. Farm and Forest

98%

(245)

17 sites · Tents, RVs · Lexington, KY

Due to the sharp entrance from the road to the driveway, we CANNOT accept rigs over 34' long. We cannot accept 5th wheels (due to height) because of some lower hanging tree branches along the driveway. WE DO NOT ACCEPT LONG TERM STAYS! This land has previously been a tobacco farm, a hay farm, and is now home to a few beef cattle. We have blazed trails through the woods for hiking, created campsites with fire rings, farmed hay, and grown various vegetables for self-consumption. We love the proximity of the farm to town, yet the seclusion we feel when we are on the farm.

4. Do not stay

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Crab Orchard, KY

Primitive sites anywhere on the property. We look forward to meeting you.

5. Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

88%

(21)

13 sites · RVs, Lodging · Stanton, KY

Welcome to Red River Gorge Glamping Resort, a boutique woodland retreat tucked into 13 acres of forest, meadows, and starlit sky in the Appalachian foothills. Designed for slow mornings, campfire nights, and meaningful connection, our property blends rustic charm with thoughtful comforts across canvas bell tents, cozy cabins, and RV-friendly sites. Wake up to birdsong drifting through the trees, sip coffee while mist rises from the hills, and wander the network of footpaths that connect each lodging to the communal fire pit, outdoor gathering meadow, and our modern bathhouse with hot showers and clean restrooms. A brand-new shared hot tub sits in the center of the meadow—perfect for warming up after a winter hike or unwinding under a canopy of stars. Every space is crafted to feel inviting and soulful: warm lighting, soft bedding, rugs underfoot, heaters and electric blankets in the tents, and special touches like complimentary s’mores kits for campfire nights. Cabins offer added privacy, wooded decks, lofted sleeping spaces, and peaceful views of the surrounding hills and horse pastures. Located just 25 minutes from Natural Bridge State Park and minutes from iconic Red River Gorge trails, climbing crags, and scenic overlooks, this is an ideal basecamp for adventure—whether you’re here to hike, climb, explore, meditate, write, or simply breathe. At night, gather under the stars, soak in the hot tub, or settle into the quiet stillness that defines life in the Gorge. In the morning, wander to our open meadow for sunrise views, stretch out with yoga, or stroll the property’s paths with a cup of something warm. We are a work in progress—intentionally. New features, artistic touches, and community spaces are always unfolding as we slowly shape this land into a woodland sanctuary for travelers, dreamers, families, and nature lovers alike. Come reconnect with yourself, with each other, and with the natural world. Your spot by the fire is waiting.

6. Shasta Valley

96%

(58)

8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Frenchburg, KY

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!

7. Serenity Camp

98%

(360)

26 sites · Tents, RVs · Beattyville, KY

I moved back here a few years ago to my home place where I grew up.  To me it is the most relaxing thing I can do to just sit by a bonfire and look at the view.

8. The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

99%

(135)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Frenchburg, KY

When you want to get away to nature, what do you envision? We're a family that loves to camp; and while we love a stop at a KOA or community campground, we sometimes crave quiet time in nature without the noise and distraction of other campers. That's what makes The LAAAAND so special. The property is comprised of 50 pristine acres, with a mix of fields and woods, that bump up against another 250 acres owned by our family friends. The southern perimeter of the property is all cliff line, so you feel truly remote. The possibilities of sound pollution are limited to a far-off dog barking, horses being ridden down a nearby trail, or the possible hum of a distant lumber yard. Other than that, you'll mostly hear the wind rustling trees, deer and critters making their way through the woods, and possibly a waterfall at certain times of the year. Oh, and you will absolutely hear whipoorwhills, most likely at a time you'd rather not (we've decided they're charming). Over the nearly 2 decades we've owned this property we have spent countless weekends enjoying the simplest of pleasures; watching butterflies dance in the tree canopy, having dance parties at sunset on the deck, forging new trails and hiking into the unkown, sitting in the truck bed late at night gazing at a star-covered sky counting shooting stars. If you are looking for a space and place to reset and reconnect, The LAAAAND is waiting for you. (***Please note, we leave our personal camper on the property for the camping season, so you will see it when you arrive to the right of the campsite***)

9. 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!

10. Overlook Farm Camping

100%

(2)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Winchester, KY

Enjoy the views and peace and quiet of the countryside. Hike or ride your horse over 300 acres of wooded trails through the gently rolling hills and along the creek. Fish our fully stocked pond, or take a 30 minute drive to explore the Red River Gorge. With full access to our six stall barn and training ring your horse will be as comfortable as you are as you sit around the fire at night enjoying the stars. Firewood, grain and hay is available for purchase.

11. Furnace mountain primitive camping

100%

(12)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Stanton, KY

60+ acres of woods, trails and 2 small ponds for catch and release. Car accessible sites or hike in. You pick a spot and set up wherever you like. There is a porta potty on the property and we have camping toilets if you need one. Just let us know ahead. No water or electricity is available on the property. There will be signs of some suggested camping spots we have used in the past also. Atv’s, dirt bikes welcome! Please take out what you bring in! Feel free to contact me for directions. GPS may not take you directly to Tiny Jones road, but it’s the 1st right after Knowlton church. There will be a sign on the road that says Tilting Rock Trail to the left. Follow the drive about a mile into the property and pick a spot where you like!

12. The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

99%

(183)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Campton, KY

Located 1 mile from the Red River Gorge in Pine Ridge KY between Mt. Parkway Exit 40 East and Exit 40 West and 8 miles to Natural Bridge State Park. The Kilns provides an area for rest and relaxation for those wanting to camp. while enjoying the outdoors. The KILNS got its name from large charcoal kilns that was a thriving family business in the late 50's early 60's. Although they are no longer functioning, they are part of our history. The camping area is nestled on a small family farm with 5 acres designated for PRIMATIVE Tent or Van Camping. The property is surrounded by beautiful woodlands and a lush green field, freshly manicured. It is easy access to Red River Gorge, Local Restaurants, General Stores all while secluded from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come relax and enjoy, we look forward to seeing you! Here are the coordinates: the maps sometimes take you to Campton, but the coordinates are accurate. Coordinates: 37.75254° N, 83.60836° W Address: 300 Johnson Ln. Campton, KY 41301

13. Camp Middle Fork

98%

(159)

4 sites · Tents · Irvine, KY

Learn more about this land: Come stay at Middle Fork Camp: two acres of grass and eleven acres of wooded hillside overlooking a valley meadow in the Daniel Boone National Forest region. Just forty minutes from the Red River Gorge and past homesite of pioneer settlers, the property features an outdoor kitchen, potable spring water, an outdoor shower, WiFi, and 110V and RV-type electric outlets. There is a yoga deck, picnic table, and wood benches with stone ring fireplaces for your use. Help yourself to vegetables from the veggie patch in season! There are ample hiking and trail running opportunities from the site, starting right behind the (private) A-frame cabin, up and over the limestone cliffs or out the gravel road. I have established hiking/running trail loops to scenic points ranging from 1 - 15 miles in length and will be happy to provide detailed information, including GPS tracks upon request. Enjoy! Note: Camp Middle Fork is a true nature area: in season there are ticks, you may see a snake, and common to this region, there is poison ivy in the woods. If you are sensitive, dress accordingly.

14. 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.

15. Turtle Ridge

100%

(1)

1 site · Tent, RV · Frenchburg, KY

5 miles north of the Red River Gorge, 18 miles north of Natural Bridge, 3 miles off Sheltowee Trace, just up from Broke Leg Falls, at the Daniel Boone National Forest, just south of Cave Run lies 20 acres of secluded hillside forest. With more than 2 miles of trails, a seasonal waterfall, and a cliff face, this private getaway is perfect for people who want to have the option to explore the popular places nearby, or just hike and camp on your own. Bring your kayak for a private float to Beaver Creek or just swim in the watering hole at the end of the street. Then at night, marvel at all of the stars that you just can't see at home.

16. Windy Ridge Farm

1 site · Tent, RV · Millersburg, KY

Tucked beneath the trees in a quiet corner of Windy Ridge Farm, this campsite offers a gently sloping landscape covered in pasture and field grass. The area is abundant with wildlife, and horses can often be seen nearby. Water is available, though electricity is not. Hidden from the road, the site offers privacy and seclusion. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for access.

17. Bluegrass Rustic Campground

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Annville, KY

Nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s natural beauty, Bluegrass Rustic Campground spans 5.02 scenic acres just minutes from Flat Lick Falls and the breathtaking Daniel Boone National Forest. Designed for campers who love the outdoors with a touch of comfort, our campground offers a peaceful, rustic retreat surrounded by rolling hills, tall pines, and the unmistakable charm of the Bluegrass State. Whether you’re pitching a tent, relaxing by the campfire, or exploring nearby hiking trails and waterfalls, Bluegrass Rustic Campground is the perfect getaway for adventurers, families, and nature lovers alike.

18. 3 Doors Farm

1 site · Tent, RV · Frenchburg, KY

2 acres of grassland 8 acres of trees and trails connects to the national forest. It’s a great place to get away. It has a really nice fifth wheel camper on the land. It has a round cabin with a single bed that you can adventure to. It is 12 miles from Nada Tunnel at the Red River Gorge area. It is 12 minutes from Broke leg falls. Bring a tent and camp.

Camper favorites in and near Red River Gorge

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Camp Middle Fork

98%

(159)

4 sites · Tents · Irvine, KY

Learn more about this land: Come stay at Middle Fork Camp: two acres of grass and eleven acres of wooded hillside overlooking a valley meadow in the Daniel Boone National Forest region. Just forty minutes from the Red River Gorge and past homesite of pioneer settlers, the property features an outdoor kitchen, potable spring water, an outdoor shower, WiFi, and 110V and RV-type electric outlets. There is a yoga deck, picnic table, and wood benches with stone ring fireplaces for your use. Help yourself to vegetables from the veggie patch in season! There are ample hiking and trail running opportunities from the site, starting right behind the (private) A-frame cabin, up and over the limestone cliffs or out the gravel road. I have established hiking/running trail loops to scenic points ranging from 1 - 15 miles in length and will be happy to provide detailed information, including GPS tracks upon request. Enjoy! Note: Camp Middle Fork is a true nature area: in season there are ticks, you may see a snake, and common to this region, there is poison ivy in the woods. If you are sensitive, dress accordingly.

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.

Turtle Ridge

100%

(1)

1 site · Tent, RV · Frenchburg, KY

5 miles north of the Red River Gorge, 18 miles north of Natural Bridge, 3 miles off Sheltowee Trace, just up from Broke Leg Falls, at the Daniel Boone National Forest, just south of Cave Run lies 20 acres of secluded hillside forest. With more than 2 miles of trails, a seasonal waterfall, and a cliff face, this private getaway is perfect for people who want to have the option to explore the popular places nearby, or just hike and camp on your own. Bring your kayak for a private float to Beaver Creek or just swim in the watering hole at the end of the street. Then at night, marvel at all of the stars that you just can't see at home.

Windy Ridge Farm

1 site · Tent, RV · Millersburg, KY

Tucked beneath the trees in a quiet corner of Windy Ridge Farm, this campsite offers a gently sloping landscape covered in pasture and field grass. The area is abundant with wildlife, and horses can often be seen nearby. Water is available, though electricity is not. Hidden from the road, the site offers privacy and seclusion. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for access.

Bluegrass Rustic Campground

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Annville, KY

Nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s natural beauty, Bluegrass Rustic Campground spans 5.02 scenic acres just minutes from Flat Lick Falls and the breathtaking Daniel Boone National Forest. Designed for campers who love the outdoors with a touch of comfort, our campground offers a peaceful, rustic retreat surrounded by rolling hills, tall pines, and the unmistakable charm of the Bluegrass State. Whether you’re pitching a tent, relaxing by the campfire, or exploring nearby hiking trails and waterfalls, Bluegrass Rustic Campground is the perfect getaway for adventurers, families, and nature lovers alike.

3 Doors Farm

1 site · Tent, RV · Frenchburg, KY

2 acres of grassland 8 acres of trees and trails connects to the national forest. It’s a great place to get away. It has a really nice fifth wheel camper on the land. It has a round cabin with a single bed that you can adventure to. It is 12 miles from Nada Tunnel at the Red River Gorge area. It is 12 minutes from Broke leg falls. Bring a tent and camp.

Stories from the community

Little grove of trees was a perfect place to set up the hammock.

E

Ed

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

Close to RRG and Natural Bridge SP plus many climbing areas.

J

Jessica

3 weeks ago

14 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

It is a beautiful piece of property! I can't wait to visit again. Next time will definitely walk around the property a little more to see more of it's beauty! Thank you again for sharing ur gift with us.

J

Jonathan

3 weeks ago

24 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

perfect spot, well spaced out, large area, great location to The Red!

Ashley

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

This is our second time visiting this site - we love it! Lots of space and privacy. Great spot for camping.

T

Terrie

3 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at The Harrican Lakehouse

I loved the lake house! Waking up and watching the ducks on the lake while we prepared breakfast was a delight. We watched newts (we think?) play in the water during the day and walked in the woods. By night, we enjoyed the fire pit and had cozy times in the house playing board games and cuddling with our dogs. This was truly a dream location and can’t wait to come back.

V

Vyshnavi

3 weeks ago

1 night at Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

This was my first glamping experience and I simply loved it! The yurts looked more magical on site and we had a cozy bonfire and toasted marshmallows by the fire. Me and my friends are glad we chickened out of camping and did glamping instead because it provided us more comfort and coziness than camping. We woke up to horses running around near the area and had another fire. Totally worth the trip!

J

Jeff

November 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Overlook Farm Camping

First off - The family is so wonderful and helpful. Second - The views are so worth the drive. Third - My dog loved being off the leash. Plenty of new smells. Fourth - I wish it had not been so cold and I had more time to take advantage of the pond. Great place that I would recommend to all.

K

K Michelle

November 2025

13 ft travel trailer

1 night at Overlook Farm Camping

What a great place! Doesn’t show its glory until you go around the barn to park/hook up, then wow! Rolling hills. Horses. Pounds with ducks. Beautiful. Best sunrise in a long time. AND: Driving up -go slow and take the third gate just like she says. Do NOT go too far -it is a long, winding, hilly, narrow road to get back (took an hour in the dark, dark, dark night). So glad we found this place!

D

Derek

November 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Bar on the Mountain

Definitely preferred when this was one private site, but the neighbors were ok. Way too close for comfort, though.

h

hm

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

Amazing & safe place to stay for all of the adventures around Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge, & Daniel Boone.

Z

Zygimantas

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Great location near Red River Gorge. Helpful hosts & great communicators.

G

Greg

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

We had an absolutely amazing time at The LAAAAND. The views were stunning in every direction, and the trails were a blast to hike beautiful, and full of variety. We only had two days to explore and easily could’ve spent a full week out there and still not seen everything. The campsite was peaceful, well stocked with firewood, spacious, and perfect for unplugging. We’ll definitely be back again!

T

Tania

November 2025

10 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

I didn't get to camp bc the weekend i reserved was 20 degrees and i didn't want to do it. I still want to leave a good review because they kept good contact and emails of everything i needed to know on how to get there and a even a video of the road leading up to the camp. Im planning on reserving again when its not so cold!

Marissa

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Bar on the Mountain

Location! Location! Breathtaking view and plenty of space to set up camp and enjoy nature. The bar was a nice central hub for our cooking setup and to keep it dry without having to set up a tarp. Fire pit great size and the constructed seating (boulders, rock slab tables, benches etc) gave plenty of room. Where we pitched camp had plenty of tall trees around for privacy and blocking wind, which was extremely helpful as we got caught in a bit of some snow. The other site at this location is just across the loop but you wouldn’t notice so feels like you are in a private area. Toilet on site could use some emptying and cleaning as it was pretty full and dirty when we arrived. Other than that note amazing spot and can’t wait to come back when the weather is better!

Liv

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at The Harrican Lakehouse

This cabin won me over the moment I walked in. It was warm, cozy, and the loft was surprisingly spacious. The porch is the real showstopper, and even though it was too cold to sit out for long, the views from every window were gorgeous. It even started snowing while we were there, which added this wild, magical atmosphere to the whole stay. The only downsides were the not-so-comfy seating, the heat being a little too powerful overnight, and the outhouse being a long chilly walk with a very rustic setup. None of it ruined the experience, but it is worth knowing before you go. Leslie loved the lake and all the open space to explore. I even had to hop in a kayak to fetch her ball when she refused to wade into the cold water, which felt like peak dog mom adventure energy. Slippers were clutch since the floors get cold and they were perfect for padding out onto the porch. The best moment was watching the sunrise roll in over the misty lake. Quiet, spooky, peaceful, and absolutely beautiful. I would stay again without hesitation.

B

Brad

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

Everything about the location, setup, and scenery are absolutely perfect! The little touches of extras was unexpected and definitely welcomed! The grill rack, extra chairs, table were awesome, and the canopy came in clutch when we arrived while it was raining. We brought a couple bundles of wood just in case, and was surprised to see plenty of precut wood to use as well! The short hikes to the cliff and waterfalls are amazing, and the sights were incredible! Just be extra careful if it rains while you are there. Parts of the hike/climbing can be extremely slippery, especially on the more sloped areas. Absolutely would stay here again and again!

Tom

November 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Red River Gorge Glamping Resort

It is a quiet beautiful place. Full hookups at each site were great for our four nights.

J

Joshua

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bar on the Mountain

Camping at Top Shelf was a perfect spot! The views were the best and it was very peaceful!

AJ

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Bar on the Mountain

A great site with great views. All around a great time!

T

Tyler

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Bar on the Mountain

I stayed at the bar with 5 of my friends there were lots of places to park our vehicles and set up tents and hammocks. On the second day it rained for hours we sat under the covered bar and joked and cooked food until it stopped and then we were right back around the fire ring. The gravel on the ground of the campsite helps the water to train quickly, we had no puddles. The view was truly captivating it made for a perfect base camp for our adventures into the Gorge. Even the porta potty was very clean. My only issue was the it’s hard to get tent stakes in the ground without a hatchet or hammer lucky I brought one with me so it wasn’t a big deal. I will return I. The future.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash camping in Red River Gorge 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.