The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Sturgis, Kentucky

Looking to go camping near Sturgis, Kentucky in the United States? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 445 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite that suits your accommodation type, activity/terrain preference, and budget. Plus, with an average price per night of $20 and options as low as $10, camping has never been more affordable. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews, such as The Art Farm Women's Retreat (73 reviews), Camping Off The Grid -Barbour Farms (54 reviews), and Glamp Games Retreat (44 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, cooking equipment, and toilets, and engage in exciting activities such as exploring historic sites, hiking, and boating. Get ready to experience the great outdoors like never before!

100% (94)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Sturgis, Kentucky in the United States? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 445 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite that suits your accommodation type, activity/terrain preference, and budget. Plus, with an average price per night of $20 and options as low as $10, camping has never been more affordable. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews, such as The Art Farm Women's Retreat (73 reviews), Camping Off The Grid -Barbour Farms (54 reviews), and Glamp Games Retreat (44 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, cooking equipment, and toilets, and engage in exciting activities such as exploring historic sites, hiking, and boating. Get ready to experience the great outdoors like never before!

100% (94)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

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

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

2. Sonny Hills

100%

(77)

26mi from Sturgis · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Eddyville, IL

We live on 70 secluded acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with some hiking opportunities, woods and water activities that we would love to share with you. Close to Garden of the Gods (10 min), RimRock, Pounds Hollow, Belle Smith Springs, Lusk Creek and other trails. We are in the middle of the Shawnee surrounded by trees, our own lake, you can hike around and walk the land in solitude, yet we are only 25 minutes to Harrisburg. The closest grocery/merchandise store is only 5 minutes away. Cabin-2BR -1 Q, 1 K/1BA sleeps 4- possible 5, huge foot stool/table makes small bed. Completely modernized, with Heating/ac, full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator, coffee pot, grill, laundry, NO INTERNET. Fully equipped Kitchen with all cooking utensils, crock pot, toasters, dual flex brew coffeemaker, plates, silverware, as well as coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil, and condiments. Large great room, with native sandstone fireplace, that has been converted to gas for easy lighting. Back deck has beautiful views of the lake and hills. Enjoy the large front porch that adjoins the back deck and wraps around 3/4 of the cabin. Secluded, private, Fire pit. Free firewood. Plenty of DVD's, and games. 2 night minimum. Tent and RV camping sites: Shade and sunny areas available. RV pads for self-contained campers. One Electric space available. Water available from spigot and hose. No sewer. Porta-Potty on premises. No showers. No Internet. It is HIGHLY suggested that campers arrive at dusk or before sunset. Quiet hour starts at 10:00 pm. The drive is not lit, and the camp area also has no lights (better to see the stars). Contact us if arrival before nightfall is not possible and we can help guide you to the areas. Pets and service dogs welcome with notice. All dogs and people Must be dog friendly (owner has 5 Irish Wolfhounds, and one small mix breed that runs the place). Dogs must have proof of vaccinations. Creeks, hills, hiking trails, and private pond full of bluegill and bass. Kayaks, paddleboards, canoe and boat for your use. NO lifeguard on duty. Life preservers/jackets must be worn when around the pond. All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.

3. Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

100%

(10)

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

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

4. Cave-In-Rock State Park

59 sites · Cave In Rock, Illinois

Explore a unique cave formation that looks like a giant poked a hole in a rock.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Shawnee National Forest

94%

(27)

172 sites · Elizabethtown, Illinois

Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Burdoc Farms

96%

(14)

45mi from Sturgis · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Crofton, KY

LOCATED IN THE NATURAL SCENERY OF WESTERN KENTUCKY JUST NORTH OF NASHVILLE, TN. Burdoc Farms is nestled in the idyllic natural green hills. Burdoc Farms offers a true and relaxed experience for your once in a lifetime event.With over 650 acres of open fields and forest, Burdoc Farms has been in the Shepherd family for over 80 years. The farm was once a tobacco and cattle farm, producing national champion Shorthorn Beef Cattle in the 60’s. When Keith and Sara Shepherd took over operations in the 90’s the farm was converted to a conservation farm, with timber management, wildlife habitat, recreation and agritourism becoming the main focus of farm operations. Learn more about this land: With over 650 acres to chose from you can camp in open fields or wooded areas on our 100 year old family farm! We love sharing our farm with other conservation minded guest, but if you need access to modern amenities we can accommodate you too. We have over 10 miles of trails to explore nature on your own. If you just want to sit by a fire and relax we have a communal fireplace or fire pit. We have a pond for fishing or swimming whatever you heart desires. Pets are allowed and welcome. Be sure to bring your sense of wonder and take your walkabout on Burdoc Farms!

7. Saline County State Fish & Wildlife Area

4 sites · Equality, Illinois

The old site of springs and wells that once furnished brine, Saline County is bountiful in natural beauty. Though the springs and wells are no longer visible, the land still boasts more than a thousand acres of expansive scenery and a pristine lake that is just too tempting for swimmers and boaters alike to resist. Bring your tent or your trailer, with plenty of space to sprawl out and call your own. Want to sharpen your skills as an angler? Throw the line in for those bluegill, bass, or crappie that call the lake home. For hiking fanatics, there are plenty of trails to hit up, including Lake, Cave Hill, River, and Wildlife Nature Trail—offering plenty of scenic exploration. There is even a separate grounds and secluded trails for those of you who prefer to venture out on horseback. Whatever’s your fancy, this park is filled to the brim with goodness.

Pets

Campfires

8. Dixon Springs State Park

100%

(1)

23 sites · Simpson, Illinois

Rock your wilderness exploration at this geology-rich state park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

9. John James Audubon State Park

87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

10. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

44 sites · Dawson Springs, Kentucky

Discover the natural splendor of Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Lake Barkley State Resort Park

100%

(3)

79 sites · Cadiz, Kentucky

Discover Lake Barkley State Resort Park's natural splendor and activities.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Fort Massac State Park

100%

(1)

52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois

Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Sturgis

Cave-In-Rock Campground

11mi from Sturgis · 59 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cave-In-Rock State Park

Camp Cadiz Campground

14mi from Sturgis · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shawnee National Forest

83%

(3)

Pounds Hollow Campground

16mi from Sturgis · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shawnee National Forest

96%

(14)

Garden of the Gods Campground

22mi from Sturgis · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shawnee National Forest

Saline County Campground

24mi from Sturgis · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Saline County State Fish & Wildlife Area

100%

(1)

Dixon Springs Campground

33mi from Sturgis · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dixon Springs State Park

John James Audubon Campground

33mi from Sturgis · 87 sites · Tents, RVs · in John James Audubon State Park

100%

(1)

Bell Smith Springs Campground

37mi from Sturgis · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shawnee National Forest

Pennyrile Forest Campground

38mi from Sturgis · 44 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

100%

(4)

Lake Glendale Campground

38mi from Sturgis · 59 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shawnee National Forest

100%

(3)

Jackson Falls Campground

38mi from Sturgis · 1 site · in Shawnee National Forest

100%

(3)

Lake Barkley Campground

48mi from Sturgis · 79 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Barkley State Resort Park

Stories from the community

D

Dom

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Genuinely the best experience I’ve had on HipCamp, AirBnB, anything. They are seriously the most accommodating, kind, humble, and helpful hosts I’ve ever had. I can’t say enough good about these two people. The cabin and the camping spots were so clean, well maintained, and roomy. The land is gorgeous. We will be back for sure.

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

This was my second stay and for good reason. Jennifer is accommodating, friendly and the space is just great!

Hayley

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

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

Beth

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

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

Katrina

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Spent the weekend tent camping. It was perfect! The owners were great. The land is beautiful and very dog friendly. The porta potty was very clean. This will be one of my favorites. So peaceful.

Megan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

We had an amazing time camping here! The host not only provided firewood, but also went above and beyond by building a fire for us while we were setting up out tent at dusk. So kind and welcoming! The property was beautiful, peaceful, and very well maintained. It felt like the safest place I've ever camped!! Would highly recommend this site!!

T

Tim

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

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

Kyle

October 2025

13 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

The property is absolutely beautiful. We had some luck fishing and enjoyed the pond. The hosts are very attentive if you should need anything. The delivery of firewood was much appreciated! You are within 20 minutes of just about anything you want. There is some road noise, but not terrible.

L

Lisa

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Jennifer and John were amazing hosts! They were available whenever there were questions and the site was wonderful. Having more than enough room for a large group was a benefit and access to the pond and any firewood that was needed was a bonus. The porta potty was one of the cleanest I've seen and was close to the site. The site is about a 15 minute drive to the Garden of the Gods recreation area which is great as you are close by but not on top of a crowd of people. We camped with adults, a child, and a dog and everyone had a great time. I would highly recommend booking a trip to Sonny Hill and would love to come stay with Jennifer and John again in the future.

S

Sarah

October 2025

8 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Burdoc Farms

I would have stayed forever if I could. So romantic, beautiful, and safe feeling for a solo female traveler.

D

Daniel

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Flat soft ground, gorgeous property, super nice hosts. And the cleanest porta potty I've ever seen. Location is great - 10 minute drive to Garden of the Gods.

C

Chrysti

September 2025

Tent

4 nights at Sonny Hills

We have camped all over the country and this was hands down our favorite. The hosts are so kind and make sure you are comfortable and cared for. The property is stunning and perfect location to town or hiking trails. We are already missing the quiet and the peaceful view of the pond and trees. We highly recommend staying here and make sure to allow yourself time to enjoy the pond and property. They give you wood for fires and it burns better than what you get at normal parks. There is a kayak, paddleboard, row boat, fishing poles. This place truly has it all. 100% recommend them and hope to visit again soon.

T

Taylor

September 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Burdoc Farms

Awesome stay at the farm! Plenty of space and very private. Our dogs absolutely loved it. Thanks Sara!

Steve

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

1 night at Sonny Hills

Very nice property and great hosts. We would highly recommend this place if you are in the area.

Steve

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

What a fantastic place to spend a few days. The property is beautiful and the hosts are great. They made us feel right at home and took great care of us. I would highly recommend this spot and will hopefully return in the future.

J

Jennifer

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Jennifer and John were great hosts! They would stop by to chat while still giving us privacy. John always made sure we had enough firewood and even brought the firewood to our site each day. It was very peaceful and relaxing camping by the pond. I would definitely camp here again. I would also highly recommend Sonny Hills for any solo female camper.

R

Robin

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

We loved our stay! The property was beautiful and they were so accommodating and friendly. And close to the things we went to do. The puppies were an added bonus! We would definitely stay again!

J

Jason

July 2025

25 ft Class C

4 nights at Sonny Hills

The friendliest hosts. Beautiful camping spot on the lake. Immaculate. Plus a great home base to explore the Shawnee. All with very friendly wolfhounds and of course Bill. We wholeheartedly recommend it! Jason and Paula