The best camping near Cave Run Lake

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cave Run Lake adventure.

Discover Cave Run Lake's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Cave Run Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Cave Run Lake

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Possum Ridge Ranch

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents375 acres · Sandy Hook, KY

Our remote 375 acres part farm and part natural woodland nestled up to Daniel Boone Forest is ideal for hikers and nature lovers. There are several hiking trails onsite and plenty of woods to explore. ATVs or side by sides are welcome to be used on the main gravel roads and some designated areas of our property. There is plenty of wildlife around but no hunting is allowed. Our designated tent sites do have firepits and picnic tables. Our trek in sites do not have those options. Pets are welcome for $10 per pet/per booking and they do need to be leashed/under control at all times. This is an extra so please be sure to add that if you plan to bring your pet. Please pick up after them. We are a short driving distance from Cave Run Lake, Grayson Lake, Carter Caves, Morehead, Natural Bridge and Red River Gorge. We are approximately 20 minutes from the nearest store so you'll want to come prepared. We are located in West Liberty (Morgan County). There is a centrally located bathhouse with toilet, shower and sink and a hose for potable water. We have firewood for sale for $5 per bundle(6 pieces) or $25 per stay not per bundle and is an extra option when booking(use what you need during your stay and it is located at the tent sites), you can bring your own and you are welcome to gather from the surrounding area but please do not cut down any living trees/limbs.

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Trace Space KY

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Wellington, KY

A unique transforming A-frame camping cabin occupies a compact area, certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a wildlife habitat yard and also 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 to the adventures in the Red River Gorge. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nature trails and the opportunity to explore in the Daniel Boone National Forest. There are short hikes within a 20-minute drive each offering its own unique discovery. An arch, 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.

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Serenity Camp

26 sites · RVs, Tents175 acres · 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.

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The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · 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 is nestled on a 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. Address: 300 Johnson Ln. Campton, KY 41301 Coordinates: 37.75254° N, 83.60836° W

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Red River Gorge Glamp Camp

3 sites · Lodging20 acres · KY

There are many vacation listings claiming to be "in the Gorge", actually almost all of them are miles away. Don't be mislead, check our location on the map! The Glamp Camp is a very rare private property actually inside the Red River Gorge. It is surrounded by 30,000 acres of scenic, mostly uninhabited Forest Service land. No need to drive to distant trails. Walk from the camp into miles of primitive forests. Massive cliffs, giant boulders and pristine streams surround the camp. Walk to the Red River and world-class climbing sites. Short drive to major trail heads, caves, waterfalls and stunning arches. *Ask me about where to go and what to see, I'm happy to help. Free map in your glamper. Dunkan Branch, a pristine, babbling stream flows feet from the Glamper. The property is gated and access restricted to our guests only. Guests get 10% discounts for kayaking with Red River Adventure, and at Mill Creek Lake at nearby Natural Bridge State Park.

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Bar on the Mountain

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · 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.

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Pine Tree RV Park

2 sites · RVs35 acres · Frenchburg, KY

My campground has 3 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!!

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Shasta Valley

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · 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!

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The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · 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 (yes, you say it with an accent;). 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.

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Hardwood forest

5 sites · Tents57 acres · Morehead, KY

Learn more about this land:There are several camp sites to choose from. This is natural forest and terrain. You can camp on top of the ridge, near the cliffs, by the cave, or by the creek. If you dont mind a few curious cows and goats you can fish in the pond too. There’s 57 acres to hike. Some trails and a lot of unbroken forest. If you like hiking in Kentucky then you know that you should bring your bug spray if you plan to break some trails..

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The Grove

4 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Morehead, KY

Learn more about this land:TheI offer a combination of flat soft fields and sparse Woods with soft ground ideal for comfortable sleeping lots of shade available some foraging will be allowed I do have water on site and can provide electricity if there's a person with a disability

Cave Run Lake/ Red River Gorge

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Wellington, KY

Escape to our secluded A-frame cabin nestled in the heart of a peaceful area, where tranquility meets comfort. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by the warmth of the well designed area, inviting you to unwind and relax. Whether you're curling up with a book, sipping hot cocoa, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, the cozy ambiance of our cabin provides the perfect setting for your retreat. Equipped with modern amenities, including wonderful Wi-Fi, you can stay connected to the outside world while immersing yourself in the serene surroundings. With five comfortable beds spread across two bedrooms, there's ample space for everyone to rest and rejuvenate after a day of adventure. Venture outside to our outdoor grill and entertaining area, where you can barbecue under the open sky and share stories around the fire pit. Feel the stress melt away as you soak in the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding nature. For outdoor enthusiasts, Cabin Run Lake is just minutes away, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and scenic hikes along the water's edge. And for those seeking even more adventure, the majestic Red River Gorge is a mere 30-minute drive, where you can explore breathtaking cliffs, towering rock formations, and miles of pristine wilderness. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled retreat, our secluded A-frame cabin is the perfect destination for your next escape. Experience the beauty of nature, the warmth of a cozy fire pit, and the comfort of modern amenities – all within reach at our serene sanctuary.

The best camping near Cave Run Lake guide

Overview

About

For those seeking a serene escape with endless recreational opportunities, camping near Cave Run Lake is the answer for you. Nestled among the rolling hills and part of the Cumberland Ranger District of the Daniel Boone National Forest, this 8,000-acre lake is more than just a picturesque water body. It plays a crucial role in flood protection and ensuring a clean water supply for nearby communities. A Cave Run Lake camping trip is unique not just for its scenic beauty but also for the plethora of activities it offers. From boating and camping to hiking and hunting, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. Fishing aficionados will be particularly drawn to the lake's diverse fish population, boasting species like bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake's reputation as a fishing hotspot is further cemented by the numerous tournaments it hosts throughout the year. Beyond fishing, the lake's clear waters invite swimmers, water skiers, and jet skiers to dive into aquatic adventures. With several boat ramps and marinas dotting its perimeter, access is a breeze for boaters. And for those who prefer dry land, the trails around Cave Run Lake offer scenic views and glimpses of wildlife, making it a hiker's paradise. Popular spots like the Billy Branch and Boat Gunnel picnic areas provide perfect settings for leisurely lunches or sunset views. Whether you're casting a line, setting up camp, or simply soaking in the views, camping near Cave Run Lake promises a refreshing blend of relaxation and adventure in the heart of Kentucky's natural beauty.

When to go

The best time to visit Cave Run Lake is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm temperatures ideal for water activities, though it can be crowded. Winters are less ideal due to colder weather, which may limit some outdoor activities.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and pack extra layers for variable temperatures.
Be mindful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
Remember to carry out all trash and leave no trace to preserve the park's natural beauty.
Office hours are from 7am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, but it's best to call ahead as times may vary.