96% (998) • 3,309 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Summer Shade
Wilson Creek Farm
1. Wilson Creek Farm
100%
(20)
6.8mi from Summer Shade · 2 sites
We are a working cattle farm on 33 acres with rolling pastures and peaceful wooded areas to enjoy. Hike down to Wilson Creek to search for geodes and explore the woods. Sit a spell by the creek side fire pit. Try fishing, swimming and boating at Barren River Lake, just a short drive from the property. Mammoth Cave, Kentucky Down Under and the Corvette Museum are all within 30 min.
With two RV sites we can accommodate rigs up to 45' and provide 20/30/50 amp service, water and have full sewer hookups. Needing tent space as well? Reach out and we can see how we can accommodate.
follow us on Instagram at wilson.creek.farm
Pets
Full hookups
Backyard RV Camp
2. Backyard RV Camp
100%
(12)
13mi from Summer Shade · 1 site · Tent, RV
Beautiful, private, level RV space located in our backyard on a quiet country road in Glasgow KY. Views across the hills are gorgeous. Blacktop driveway and turn-around area for easy drive In access to this packed in gravel pad. Minutes away from hiking, golf, downtown entertainment, skating and Barren River Lake! 15-20 minutes off I65. Less than 30 minutes from Mammoth Cave! 50/30/20 amp electric and water hookups along with a fire pit and picnic table!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Clearview Campsite
3. Clearview Campsite
100%
(18)
13mi from Summer Shade · 1 site · Tent, RV
In a corner of our 40 acre homestead, we have prepared a shady retreat for you and your family. Whether you are passing through, looking for a place to unplug and getaway, or are interested in some of the local sites. We are approximately 12 miles to Barren River Lake State park, 3.4 miles from Kenny’s Farmhouse cheese, 40 miles from Mammoth Cave and within 20 mins to the city limits of Glasgow Ky. There are Dollar General stores within a 10 min drive and a local BBQ within 3 miles on Thur-Sat (Kimmys BBQ). 1 - 50 amp and 2 - 30 amp, water and sewer hookup are available and a security light with switch for your convenience. We would love to share our peaceful corner of God’s Country!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Barren River Lake
4. Barren River Lake
72%
(9)
Park 19mi from Summer Shade · 353 sites
Once you've gotten your spelunking at Mammoth Cave National Park out of the way, find your lodgings at Barren Lake State Park, where tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course make for an especially plush place to stay. Lay out your towel and chill at the beach or take advantage of the abundant fishing opportunities. A marina complete with jet ski rentals means you can cruise the water in style. Whether you're interested in hiking the wooded trails, playing a game of shuffleboard, or putting your feet up at your rental cottage, you'll find the only thing this place doesn't offer is a permanent place to reside.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Barren River Lake State Resort Park
5. Barren River Lake State Resort Park
100%
(1)
State park 19mi from Summer Shade · 100 sites
Discover Barren River Lake State Resort Park's natural splendor.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Barren River Magic
6. Barren River Magic
99%
(227)
17mi from Summer Shade · 74 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Barren River Magic — a peaceful, nature-filled retreat tucked away in Center, Kentucky, surrounded by the serene waters of the Barren and Little Barren Rivers. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape, a family camping adventure, or a unique glamping experience, we’ve got a little something for everyone.
Choose from scenic tent sites, RV-friendly spots, and creative glamping stays like our repurposed grain bin or our open air structures. Please note: for most glamping stays, you’ll need to bring your own bedding (sleeping mats, bags, blankets, pillows). The Fox Den and Peace Pipe are the only exceptions—they come fully equipped!
Spend your days kayaking, fishing, tubing, or simply relaxing beside the river. The surrounding area is full of Kentucky gems—Mammoth Cave, Cave City, Nolin Lake, Green River Lake, Diamond Caverns, and more—all just a short drive away.
We’re a pet-friendly property because we know adventures are better with your furry friends. Campfires are welcome, and we even provide firewood to make your evenings extra cozy. You’ll also find portable toilets and two centrally located showers (naturally warmed by the sun!) for your convenience.
IMPORTANT: We do not accept late-night bookings or late arrivals. All guests must arrive by 6 PM local time.
This allows us to personally greet you and guide you to your glamping site or campsite. If something unexpected comes up and you’re concerned about arriving late, please send us a message in advance—we’ll do our best to help. Thank you for understanding and helping us keep the experience smooth and enjoyable for all our guests!
Come breathe the fresh air, explore the riverbanks, and unwind under the stars. We can’t wait to welcome you to Barren River Magic—where memories are made, and nature does the rest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
On the back of the farm
7. On the back of the farm
99%
(168)
18mi from Summer Shade · 1 site · Tent, RV
This farm has been in my family for 3 generations, the Road is named after my great grandparents.
Sitting right on Barren River Lake we are at the end of a dead end chip sealed road.
Come join us for a few nights and share in the little piece of suclusion that we call home.
We look forward to seeing you.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch your tent in the back of our 60 acre farm and stay completely secluded from people. You will drive 2 miles down a chip sealed road and then almost a mile down a dirt road past where the public road ends. Stay as connected or as disconnected as you want. Our farm offers the perfect escape from the day to day race of life. If you want to get away come spend a few days with us!!! We only allow booking of one camp site at time to ensure your privacy. Upon arrival there are 2 sites to pick from(see map in photos section). Camp firewood available for purchase at the barn on your way in. Signs are in place to take you to camp sites from the address that you will receive upon booking. Can't wait for you to come spend a couple nights with us!
We encourage our guests to check out the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife page and the Barren River Lake Corp of Engineers page to know the local boating and fishing rules for Barren River lake during your visit
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Long Hungry Creek Camping
8. Long Hungry Creek Camping
95%
(10)
25mi from Summer Shade · 6 sites
Welcome to Long Hungry Creek farm, established in 1974 as an organic homestead relying on renewable energy. One hundred acres of meadows are interspersed throughout 150 acres of mature hardwood forest, and a beautiful creek meanders through the property. Activities include nature walks, fishing, swimming in the creek or the pond and plenty of constellation viewing opportunities. This is a working farm and you may schedule a farm tour with the Barefoot Farmer. We often have projects going on and are happy to include visitors who express an interest in farming.
Campfires
Toilets
Beardsnest
9. Beardsnest
100%
(165)
25mi from Summer Shade · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This ecological art project is currently recruiting visitors to camp in beautiful fields, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 2026, camping here provides a glimpse into the 5th year of succession, which is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie that is flanked by the rocky and steep slopes of a mature forest.
Pet friendly and most likely a good fit for self-sufficient types that like campsites with generous spacing, but still want to get out to the park quickly (~7 miles to the Visitors Center) or travel into Cave City (3 mi) for coffee/ice-cream/pizza/barbecue/bar/food/etc. Expand from the campsite into a sketch-work of trails, as if camping near the headquarters of a satellite nature reserve.
All sites except Spicebush have a filtered water output. Spicebush campers will have water access next to parking.
Camping funds allow us to plant trees (~530 seedlings as of March 2026), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species.
A nice way to experience Mammoth Cave NP is to break the trip into 3 layers, covering the underworld (cave tours), upper world (hiking), and the water that connects the two (Green River). Mammoth Cave is unique in the way that a study of the underworld will repeatedly draw the mind into a creative space where we imagine what is beneath the surface and how these worlds are linked, while above ground hiking on land or kayaking on the ecologically rich and biodiverse Green River. Kayaking the Green is elemental; like unplugging from one world, pure nature immersion. We offer kayaks (see extras), that leave from camp, tailored to your schedule.
Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project!
Most commonly booked extras:
1. Dried and split firewood bundles, usually a mix of oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle, delivered to the campsite.
2. Kayaks on a suggested donation basis ($45) providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the NP.
3. Pending availability, we are happy to pitch a tent (REI 4 person Half Dome plus 2 sleeping pads) for those who want to camp but are not traveling with gear.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Dale Hollow Lake
10. Dale Hollow Lake
100%
(4)
Park 28mi from Summer Shade · 407 sites
Dale Hollow Lake is blue gem and green oasis—a glorious retreat from the Tennessee summer heat. You’ll find plenty of adventure on the water when you explore coves and shorelines from your boat or canoe, or even as you zip along on water skis! Fisherman can catch trophy smallmouth bass and trout fishing is truly something special. With hiking, biking, and snowmobile trails, Dale Hollow is fun in any season, though autumn is particularly beautiful with a wide array of colors and chirping birds. Unique primitive camping and spots for your RV mean you can bring yourself and your crew to Dale Hollow Lake any time of year for a weekend (or more) of fun!
Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
11. Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
100%
(4)
State park 28mi from Summer Shade · 151 sites
Get your game on! This park is perfect for people who love to play.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mammoth Cave National Park
12. Mammoth Cave National Park
97%
(80)
National park 30mi from Summer Shade · 128 sites
Find magic below ground—and above—at Mammoth Cave National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Cumberland
13. Lake Cumberland
100%
(1)
Park 54mi from Summer Shade · 224 sites
Creature comforts and outdoor adventures await at this massive lake
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Misty Bottoms
14. Misty Bottoms
100%
(12)
29mi from Summer Shade · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Misty Bottoms is situated on the 14 mile marker on Green River in the Green, Taylor, Adair counties. We offer mountain bike trails, pond and river fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding or just relax with someone special without the noise of the city. We live on the property, so if you need something we'll be happy to help.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
Futurology Farms
15. Futurology Farms
100%
(10)
31mi from Summer Shade · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Futurology Farms is nestled along the Cumberland River in Central Tennessee and features seclusion, beautiful countryside vistas, bountiful river views, and wildlife. You'll find water activities on the river and hiking at the farm and state parks close by. It has been a lifelong dream and vision for our family to have a magical place with lots of land to create an experience. The farm is brand new as of September 2020, so there's lots to do and is a work in progress with still much beautification to be done. Despite the development in progress, the farm is gorgeous and there's lots to do and explore on and around the property.The mountain farm is a passion of ours and we seek to create a space that will be self-sustaining, leave a minimal carbon footprint, and foster a culture of farm-to-table lifestyle. In addition to the environmentally conscious aspects of the long-term plans for the farm, we have dreams to craft a space that encourages and promotes the arts, both visual and performing. Jackson County has been coined a sportsman paradise by those who know of the hidden gems this beautiful piece of Tennessee has to offer. We are just an hour outside Nashville, 25 minutes from Cookeville and Livingston, 20 minutes from Dale Hollow Lake, and 9 parks with hikes and waterfalls within 45 minutes. We have 3 boat launches right on the Cumberland River within 3 miles. You can hike, swim, kayak, canoe, jetski, boat, or float on the river. There are several marinas within 30 minutes. It's important to know that this is a raw and challenging terrain. It's a mountain or some may say a hill. We call it a mountain because of the rock bluffs, cliffs, and dramatic nature of this spot. As such, there are cliffs you could fall off, trails that are difficult and dangerous at times depending on your hiking skill level. These are for the adventurous type and use is at your own risk.This property has a magical feel and really allows you to connect with nature in a peaceful, beautiful, and serene place. We are proud to be the guardians and caretakers of this beautiful land and we hope you enjoy it too. :)
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Twisted River
16. Twisted River
97%
(59)
32mi from Summer Shade · 1 site
A recent addition to our already spacious and secluded bed and breakfast. A tremendous wooded area with trails, woods, water and an awesome camping/fire pit area! If you enjoy watching the stars after a delicious, over the campfire cooked meal, you'll love the sights, sounds and smells of backwoods Kentucky. The land is bordered by a winding, twisting river that is ample enough for bathing, boating and/or fishing that seems to go on for days. Idea for overnight stays, weekend getaways or family or group gatherings.Learn more about this land:A long flowing log trail that travels through gorgeous woods and time then temporarily halts at the centerpiece campsite for fire, food and laughs. Space around a stone framed fire pit for up to 5 tents to enjoy peace or family at the same time. Off you continue along a groomed 4 wheel trail that guides you past our deer plot, beaver workings, stretches of wild low lands and a refreshing creek for swimming, fishing, boating, you name it! The main camp site is about a :15 minute hike off the main road but close enough to receive support if required.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Noble Pine Campground
17. Noble Pine Campground
100%
(55)
36mi from Summer Shade · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We provide a farm experience in a small campground with 2 full bathrooms with hot showers, 10 rv/tent sites, 1 glamping bell tent, 1 glamping aframe, and a 3 bedroom 1 bath ‘Trailboss’ cabin available for short term renting. There is a dump station for trailers, and sites have water and 30 amp electric.
Horses, goats, chickens, and sometimes a friendly camp cat are happy to engage with guests. Guests will have access to yard games such as corn hole, giant jenga, croquet, bocce ball, steer lassoing and more.
Camp is located on the north side of Mammoth Cave National Park.
There is Wi-Fi available on premises.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Tipi Village
18. The Tipi Village
100%
(17)
36mi from Summer Shade · 4 sites
A cozy night for two (or four) in a tipi! A family reunion, or an outdoor wedding. We are able to offer three sioux-styled tipi's. Rent one tipi or rent the entire village for a birthday party or gathering. Outdoor wedding packages are available! These are 18 foot tipi's surrounded in a nature setting. We have picnic and grilling areas on-site along with a full bathroom and kitchen located at The Tipi Village office, located in a small log cabin. Each tipi has it's own sitting area and firepit, suitable for cooking. The village also has a community firepit where everyone can gather. Renting the entire campground is a great way to have a party or celebration and having exclusive use of this micro-campground. This is a glamping-type of experience with limited heat and AC, beds, carpet, and of course an electric fireplace!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Chatty Heifer Farm
19. Chatty Heifer Farm
99%
(203)
39mi from Summer Shade · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
The family we bought the farm from owned and farmed it since 1900. They built a cabin then and built a house around the cabin in 1920. We bought it in 2018 and have been renovating it to build a retreat center for first responders and others who serve unselfishly. To that end, we've cut hiking trails and campsites as well as filling the farm with livestock to help people slow down and de-stress. We're located in the beautiful green hills about an hour east of Nashville, Tennessee. Learn more about this land:Drift off to sleep with the sounds of a year-round creek just outside your campsite. Wake up to a beautiful meadow surrounded by green hills in rural Tennessee. Campsites are located on a 120 year old farm under restoration, which is family owned and operated. Get some time away. You'll have privacy as you explore the farm: wade the creek, sway on the tire swing, visit the farm animals (goats, cows, pigs, and chickens), pick wild berries, and sample farm fresh produce and eggs when available. Hiking trails are also available on the farm through tranquil woods.Property is easily accessible from Nashville. In addition, day trips are possible to several lakes, rivers, waterfalls, historic sites, civil war battlefields, state parks, and national wildlife areas.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Waterloo Falls
20. Waterloo Falls
100%
(142)
42mi from Summer Shade · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
The Property:
Located north of Cookeville in the rolling hills and farmland, our property is on Spring Creek, a state scenic river. Situated between two waterfalls and featuring over half a mile of river frontage to explore. Float, fish and relax listening to the cascading water. Perfect for bird watchers- blue and green herons, ospreys, hawks, bald eagles and more. You may spot the creek critters- minks, beavers, and otters. Various types of bass, craw dad's and minnows are in the creek.
We operate similar to a state park. We are open to the public from 10am-7pm, peak season. We have other listings that are spaced so each of our guests has privacy. Please see aerial photo for an overview. We sometimes have small events (birthday parties, ect) at the pavilion. Please feel free to message us first, if you would like to see if there are any events during your stay.
There are 2 restrooms centrally located at the pavilion. One bathroom has a shower with hot water, soap, shampoo/conditioner included. The restrooms are shared with our other listings. There are USB and regular outlets in the pavilion and WiFi. During warm season the outdoor kitchen is available as well.
We also rent out a Suite which is located above the pavilion.
Quiet hours are 10pm-8am.
Pets are welcome as long as they are leashed and picked up after. Please note there is a gun range 2 hollers away and depending on the season, it can be heard from our property.
Tent in the Trees Listing:
Your tent site is built above the trail and overlooking the creek.
The tent is equipped with a queen bed, linens, extra blankets & essential cooking gear. There is a fire pit with grill and griddles for cooking over wood or charcoal. Really, all you need is clothes, food and drink!
Primitive Camp Site:
The rustic camp site is DIY. It is 300' from pavilion, and 600' from Tent in the Trees. We provide a picnic table and fire pit You bring all the rest of your gear. Typically, you may park next to your campsite.
No RV's, converted vans are permitted. If you have a very small camper, please message us to see if we can accommodate. There are no hookups, and no loud generators allowed.
Bundles of wood available $10.
Escape in nature and sleep soundly to the sounds of the creek!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Stephanie
3 days ago
Tent
Was a great, easy access campsite. Plenty to explore and climb on for a day!
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B
Brooke
3 days ago
Tent
With kids
We had the best time camping at Waterloo Falls! Incredible hidden gem! The grounds were clean, easy to navigate, and the level of privacy from others guests was appreciated. Would love to come back again soon!
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L
Leon
2 weeks ago
3 nights at Barren River Magic
Carriage House II ia a wonderful place to enjoy the magic of Kentucky. The hosts are accommodating and friendly to visitors. I appreciated the peace of this place and the sounds at night were enchanting. This is a place to come back to!
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J
Josh
3 weeks ago
15 ft travel trailer
You should check out this place! It's a nice level and spacious site. There is a nice bathroom and shower located just a few steps away from the camp site.
The access to the green river on the property is top notch. I recommend it to any kayak anglers who like to fish streams!
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J
Jason
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Private and Peaceful
Great place to unplug and be in nature. Abundance of wildlife.
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Justin
3 weeks ago
Tent
Great private spot! Close to the lake. Would book again.
See moreE
Emily
3 weeks ago
Tent
I loved camping on Alice's land! We were greeted with such kindness, the view was absolutely beautiful, playing in the waterfalls was SO fun, and our site was very private. Cannot recommend enough!
See moreA
Austin
3 weeks ago
Tent
This was such a peaceful spot! Waking up, I could hear woodpeckers knocking on the trees, during the afternoon butterflies flew around curiously, and at night the owls hooted in the trees. The nearby lake gave the perfect scenic view for some book reading. I can say without a doubt that I recommend this spot if you're looking for serenity!
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K
Kristy
April 2026
Tent
This was by far one of the best camping experiences we have had as a family.
There is SO MUCH SO CLOSE to the campsite
You pull into parking and there's a wrapping trail that follows the creek starting at the top looking down off a 50-100 foot cliff (rough estimate) going around to the bottom where on the opposite side your looking up a 50 -100 foot cliff
Creek is right next to the campsite so you get to listen and hear the water all day and night it was amazing. The Water was lower when we went which was better for us as we had a toddler that could play with her life vest. There was two swimming holes i didn't get to check out in that bend that I can't wait to next time
Next jus a lil further down at their venue there is two water falls and a amazing wrapping cliff.
We played in the larger waterfall for one day and it was a blast
We got some pics and there's others on this site but truthfully the saying pictures don't do it justice really has never been more relevant. Alice was a amazing host and super helpful Thanks you so much for sharing your land with us and allowing us to experience this we can't wait to come back
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Zac
April 2026
19 ft campervan
With pets
Loved everything about this site! So peaceful and pretty. The goats provided endless entertainment. Thoughtful host has stocked the bathroom with supplies. This will definitely be our go-to spot when visiting Mammoth Cave.
Just some helpful notes for campers: The green river ferry is only operational until 4pm each day and even though the ferry says no RVs, our Transit camper van was allowed. Also, this campsite is in a dry county, so come prepared. Finally, horses will be trotting by often (lovely!) but just something to keep in mind if you are bringing a pup.
Five stars!! This has been one of our favorite hip camps to date!
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R
Ryan
April 2026
Tent
With kids
Easy to find, and super close to most of the attractions we saw at the National Park. I recommend purchasing the firewood bundles. It’s convenient and you’re not moving firewood, which promotes their restoration project. Although the site is mostly primitive (you do have potable water), it feels inviting with the stone fire ring, two chairs waiting on you, and manicured paths. The field is scenic and serene. Far enough from other sites, it feels like you’re the only ones there even if you’re not. Kevin was responsive and hospitable. Both mornings a pair of geese flew directly over the campsite at dawn, honking as they passed. We could also hear turkeys, chickens, and songbirds. Kevin is full of advice, so be sure to ask him if you need local tips.
See moreJ
Jackson
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
Aaron’s land was perfect for a night away from the city. The views were great and they were very amenable. 10/10 would come back.
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L
Lexie
April 2026
Tent
I loved tent camping on Kevin’s land! It was a lovely spot, and he was very kind and accommodating. He had a variety of campsites to choose from, we camped at one of the forest locations. It was beautiful. I highly recommend camping here.
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Mark
April 2026
19 ft Class B
The view and peace and quiet. The property was well taken care of and Alice and her husband was very nice. If ever that way again would definitely book again
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C
Charles
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
The campsites are the perfect distance from each other. Close enough to walk to each one but far enough away to feel private and secluded. Would highly recommend
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Matthew
April 2026
20 ft travel trailer
With kids
Very peaceful and quiet. Windy most of the time which was nice keeping the bugs away. Would recommend, just a bit far from mammoth cave. Would find someplace closer if we visit the caves again.
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E
Ed
March 2026
19 ft Class B
The site was well maintained with a few chairs, established fire ring, water on site, super tent spots, along with established hiking paths thru the property. The sunset is was beautiful from this location. Host is helpful and very accommodating! Would definitely recommend it and would stay there again in the future!
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J
Jason
March 2026
Tent
With pets
We absolutely loved primitive camping on Scott’s property by the creek. Our only neighbors were the deer, turkey, owls and foxes! Our fur babies were able to run free and enjoy the creek as well. We caught several small mouth and red eye bass! Scott was also an excellent host, offering fresh eggs, milk, and firewood! Will definitely be back when it warms up a little.
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A
Amanda
March 2026
36 ft travel trailer
With kids
We loved staying at Riney Farm! It was a short 6 mile drive from I-65, making it convenient for a stop for the night, which is what we did. I only booked the site two hours before our arrival. It's a pull through site with a wide area in which to turn out upon leaving. April warned us about their peacocks being loud at night since it's their brooding season, but they never once disturbed us. I would come here again if I was passing through the area.
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K
Kaitlyn
March 2026
Tent
Group trip
What a unique area. I loved the time and effort that Kevin puts into his projects. I think this place will only get better over time. He is an awsome host and we plan to come back again.
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