1. Explore
    /
  2. United States
    /
  3. Kentucky
    /
  4. Cave City
1 / 100

Beardsnest

Hosted by Kevin · Cave City, Kentucky
5 sites · RV, Tent · 30 acres
100%
·
185 reviews
Avatar
Best Hipcamps in Kentucky
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025.
Near Mammoth Cave National Park
Within a 30-minute drive from the New Entrance.
Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
This ecological art project is recruiting visitors to camp on scenic prairies, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 2026, Beardsnest 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 a good fit for self-sufficient types that prefer quiet camping over dense layouts, but still want to get into to the park quickly (~6.2 miles to Visitors Center) or travel into Cave City (3 mi) for a greater variety of food, drink, and other cave experiences. Expand from campsites into a sketch-work of prairie and woodland trails featuring characteristic karst elements of topography. Visitor support allow us to plant trees (~530 seedlings as of March 2026), establish native grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. In our opinion, the essential Mammoth Cave NP experience should have 3 basic layers: 1) the underworld (cave tours), 2) upper world (hiking), and critically, the flow of 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 rich and biodiverse Green River. There is more here than can be digested in a lifetime of observation, but examining in orbits of the 3 layers will provide a foundation of intuition and understanding. Floating the Green River is like leaving developed reality and dropping into pure nature. We offer kayak trips and guided tours that leave from camp, tailored to your schedule. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! Commonly requested extras: 1. Dried and split firewood bundles, usually a mix of oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle, delivered to the campsite. 2. A variety of kayak tours to suit skill, fitness, and ecological interests, so visitors can float the Green River through the NP, departing casually from your camp and tailored to your schedule. 3. REI 4 person Half Dome plus 2 sleeping pads.

Select a site

Tent-only sites

2 sites
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Forest Rim Overlook

100%
(17)
Tent site · Sleeps 2
Forest Rim Overlook is a walk-in site tucked onto a shaded ledge overlooking an upland forest that gradually becomes more steep to the east as it approaches an interesting canyon formation. The short walk (~60 yds) from parking winds through a successional prairie before opening into the campsite, which is positioned as a type of dock into the forest. Visitors will find a filtered water spigot, fire-pit, tea table, and 2 chairs. Suitable for most 3 person tents and/or hammock camping. Numerous woodland or young prairie trails are accessible from this location. The hosts and friends often use this spot to cool off in summer, to listen for birds, chat over a campfire, or to glimpse forest creatures. From the elevated scenic perch of the tent, campers have an excellent and private vantage of a sloping upland habitat littered with boulders to enjoy forest sounds. This site fits perfectly for an REI 4 person Half-Dome (94”x86” footprint). We offer to setup and loan an REI Halfdome, sleeping pads (Exped MegaMat an/or aThermarest Dreamtime), pillows and sheets, as well as a lantern for a flat fee (see extras).
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Spicebush

100%
(13)
Tent site · Sleeps 3
Spicebush is a backpacking campsite nestled in an opening at the bottom of a steep trail down spiral rock staircases. The camp sits subtly above a lush, wood-fern filled valley that is guarded by a panorama of steep, rocky hillsides and towering trees. Note that this site requires a guided tour down and potential visitors need to be fit and strong hikers who are interested in backpacking style of camping (light, minimalist). Spicebush provides an intimate stage within a large natural amphitheater, surrounded by moss-covered rocks, old growth trees, ferns and spice-bush. The trail to this site winds down natural rock staircases and around a scenic rock-lined sinkhole, before traversing across a valley of stinging nettle and ancient rock formations, into a fern, moss, pawpaw, and spicebush wonderland. We think of the entire area as living art, and the walk down is like a tour through the museum. A great option for nature immersion, trail walking, drawing and writing, summoning gnome magic, as well as generally figuring out important things. The site has a fire-pit and a horizontal tree bench. While most of our sites are easily navigated without help, Spicebush requires the host be available for a guided tour to the area both to illustrate the trail down and to point out ecologically sensitive areas and best practices for treading lightly in a rugged albeit delicate landscape. The site was designed for a 4 person REI Halfdome tent. We offer to setup the tent, along with two sleeping pads, pillows, and sheets for a one-time fee (see extras).
Hike-in access only
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers

RV/tent sites

3 sites
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Backcountry Rim

100%
(87)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 6 · Vehicles under 24 ft
Backcountry Rim sits high on a private corner with excellent views of the setting sun. A few steps away in the south direction, is a wooded wilderness area that becomes a steep hillside and rugged country, providing a vantage of the forest as well as surrounding prairie. This campsite is suitable for car camping, small group, tear-drop or smaller trailers, roof or van camping. Paths radiate from Backcountry Rim onto a young successional prairie which overlooks a wetland seam on a bookended hillside to the north. The site has a filtered water output, fire-pit + 2 heavy cast chairs, and adjacent mowed ovals and zones allow for either additional tents or places to throw frisbee and things of that nature. Though the main site is open, adjacent areas provide flat, shaded options on hot days or pitching a hammock.
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Hickory Field

99%
(59)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 21 ft
This campsite sits up on a ledge, interrupting a gently sloping hill and a steeper drop-off onto a low prairie. Many visitors pitch a tent under the canopy of the bitternut hickory. and for reference, the fire-pit sits not far away under an open sky. Great spot to watch a sunset, enjoy a campfire/dinner with friends, stargaze, or walk out along the labyrinth of mowed paths that radiate away from the campsite. *filtered water spigot, fire-pit, + 2 heavy cast chairs.
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Frisbee Lawn

100%
(31)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 6 · Vehicles under 35 ft
This is a mowed open site suitable for dispersed tent camping, as well as campervans or teardrop campers. The site has a water spigot, fire-pit, and a 20A 110V outlet. It is near the main house and barn studio, opening onto our frisbee lawn with trails leading out in all directions.
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Electrical hookup
No water hookup

Reviews

100% Recommend207 ratings · 185 reviews
Campers rave about the peaceful and scenic setting of this campground, just a stone's throw from Mammoth Cave National Park. The location is praised for its privacy, beautiful views, and well-maintained grounds, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. The host, Kevin, is frequently mentioned for his friendliness and helpfulness, ensuring guests feel welcome and informed about the local area. Visitors also appreciate the added activities, like kayaking, and the presence of friendly dogs, which add to the homely atmosphere.
Summary AI-generated from real reviews
Recommends
· October 2026
19 ft campervan ·
Frisbee Lawn
Visiting National Parks.
Recommends
· October 2026
19 ft pop-up camper ·
Frisbee Lawn
Beautiful scenery…open sky to view the stars and Orion the constellation…saw some shooting stars during our 4 nite stay…beautiful sunsets as well…🥰
Recommends
· October 2026
22 ft Class B · With pets ·
Backcountry Rim
Beautiful, peaceful and quiet! And SO close to Mammoth NP! Kevin was a superb host and my dogs and I enjoyed walking all the mowed paths through the prairie.
Recommends
· October 2026
Tent ·
Forest Rim Overlook
We had a great stay on the Rim Overlook tucked away in the wood line and looking out into the woods every morning was amazing! Thanks for having us!
Recommends
· October 2026
13 ft pop-up camper ·
Backcountry Rim
Great host, excellent location just up the road to Mammoth Cave. Very private and quiet. We would stay again!
Recommends
· October 2026
Tent · Group trip ·
Hickory Field
The host is always wonderful and welcoming and the sites are private and quiet
Recommends
· October 2026
16 ft car ·
Backcountry Rim
10/10 Kevin and his pack of pups were great hosts! The site was clean, quiet, tucked away from a view of the road or anyone else camping. The property is close by Mammoth Caves if you want to do some day hikes or take a tour and the view of the stars at night was stunning. The site was spacious, level, had a firepit and water spigot/filter. Would love to come back and wander the grass paths again :)
Recommends
· September 2026
Tent · With kids ·
Backcountry Rim
My sons and I stayed out at Kevin’s property for the 2nd time and it was even better than we remembered from last year. We love the well kept sites and beautiful views of the sunrise and moonrise. Being so close to so many caves is another huge Plus. From his friendly doggos to his warm welcomes and goodbyes, we can’t plan another trip fast enough.
Recommends
· September 2026
Beautiful views in quiet spot.
21 ft campervan ·
Hickory Field
We stayed in our camper van in the fall. The meadows looked great and were blooming nicely. The dog was awesome too. Would come back for a longer stay.
Recommends
· September 2026
Tent ·
Hickory Field
Kevin was an amazing host! The area we pitched our tent was beautiful, perfect views of the sky and sunset. His location was very close to Mammoth Cave (about 10 mins) and close to 2 other small towns. We added on kayaks to our trip as well and he personally drove us to a drop off location and picked us up a few hours later. I would highly recommend Kevin’s campground, we’ll definitely be back!
Recommends
· September 2026
Just What We Needed
Tent · With kids ·
Frisbee Lawn
This was awesome! We are already planning our return trip. Kevin has begun a beautiful re-wilding project as the lands heals and returns to its native wonder. Chatting with him has inspired me to be more curious (and grateful!) about the world in front of me. As for camping, the grass is so soft for sleeping and perfect for frisbee. Oh and the STARS!!!
Recommends
· September 2026
Tent ·
Forest Rim Overlook
Kevin and his pups are the best hosts one could ask for! Great location equally near mammoth cave, cave city, and Glasgow. Cannot recommend enough
Recommends
· September 2026
Tent · Group trip ·
Backcountry Rim
This place was great! Very well maintained. Would recommend.
Recommends
· September 2026
Tent ·
Hickory Field
I liked everything about the place, especially how laid back it was and I really enjoyed talking to the owner as I was packing up to leave in the morning
Recommends
· September 2026
Tent · Group trip ·
Frisbee Lawn
A perfect site with an amazing host! You really feel like you’re in your own patch of the world and can really let loose! We had so much fun we definitely will be back!
Recommends
· August 2026
Great spot close to the caves!
22 ft travel trailer ·
Backcountry Rim
Beautiful spot close to Mammoth Cave and Cave City. We rented kayaks and Kevin and his son went above and beyond getting us to and from the river... which was such a fun and easy paddle, with a cave too! Can't say enough good things about this hipcamp!
Recommends
· August 2026
Tent ·
Hickory Field
Beautiful setting under the hickory tree. Water is available which is a bonus. This is a good spot to camp if you’re in town to see a show at the Grove in Glasgow.
Recommends
· August 2026
15 ft travel trailer ·
Backcountry Rim
Lovely setting. The Backcountry Rim site is pleasantly secluded. The site takes advantage of the property’s natural topography to place it completely out of sight of the house and road. The property is well maintained, and Kevin was very responsive and helpful when we arrived after dark.
Recommends
· August 2026
16 ft car · With kids ·
Backcountry Rim
Kevin’s property is beautiful. The spot is tucked in a meadow near the wooded back line of his property. It was very peaceful and close to both the highway and the mammoth caves national park. He even provided firewood for us and a few camp chairs!
Recommends
· August 2026
Tent ·
Backcountry Rim
This is an amazing gem located close to Mammoth Cave National Park! Private, beautiful, and with a great host, do not pass this up.
Recommends
· August 2026
Tent ·
Hickory Field
Very beautiful spot. Nice and quiet. The host was friendly and accommodating.
Recommends
· August 2026
Tent ·
Frisbee Lawn
Kevin and his boys were very friendly, helpful, and gave great advice about the local area! Also loved their adorable dogs. Area is really big for camping, and it's been raining a lot here while I was visiting but the road and the camping spot were all solid. Definitely recommend!
Recommends
· August 2026
Tent · Group trip ·
Backcountry Rim
Camping on Kevins land was incredible! Me and my crew had a great time enjoying both the campsite and local area. Kevin and his sons were especially awesome, taking us out to the river to go kayaking and hiking. This truly was a wonderful experience and I would recommend with the best regards for anyone to camp here if they are visiting mammoth cave!
Recommends
· July 2026
Tent ·
Hickory Field
This is a beautiful site. The host Kevin is consciously working on a ecologically sound prairie grass site that really takes a person in when they arrive. Very well maintained as well in the camping region, so an excellent mix of clean yard for camping and natural beauty. 110/100. Would certainly be honored to stay again and do suggest to others. Thanks Kevin.
Recommends
· July 2026
Tent ·
Forest Rim Overlook
Really loved staying here, would definitely recommend it. The site was gorgeous overlooking the forest and felt a lot more secluded than a public campground. Kevin and his sons were super friendly and knowledgeable of the area. Highly recommend the kayaking on the green river, it was so peaceful and they were great about accommodating the best timing for dropping off and picking up. The beautiful and friendly pups running around was a huge plus as well!
Recommends
· July 2026
Perfect Pit Stop
25 ft campervan · With pets ·
Frisbee Lawn
This was the perfect pit stop after a day of exploring Mammoth. Kevin was super welcoming and helpful. I felt like I had privacy back behind the garage. And the electric hookup saved me from the heat - so I could run my A/C. Would love to come back!
Recommends
· July 2026
21 ft campervan · With kids ·
Backcountry Rim
Beautiful land! Easy to get to from 65 but feels secluded and part of nature. Kevin was a very friendly host!
Recommends
· July 2026
15 ft rooftop tent ·
Frisbee Lawn
Our stay at Beardsnest was fabulous. Kevin was a great host, even going out of his way to help close a window on our mini camper while we were out and it started to rain! His three dogs are friendly as well. With the woods right next to our site, we were serenaded by a variety of birds each morning. Wonderful!
Recommends
· July 2026
Lovely camping field
16 ft car ·
Backcountry Rim
Beautiful space with a wonderful sunset view and privacy from the main house. Loved seeing the milkweed flowers and persimmons growing. Kevin was hospitable and kind. We would stay again!
Recommends
· July 2026
A great stay!
Tent ·
Forest Rim Overlook
Our site was in a great location; just outside of the prairie and into the tree line. The biodiversity in the area is incredible after all of the effort put into the land, and there are several hiking trails to enjoy it as well! Kevin is very friendly and knowledgeable about the surrounding area. He recommended some nice places to visit. The site is also a very short drive to Mammoth Cave, which was nice! Overall a great stay!

Location

Cave City, Barren County, Kentucky, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
Avatar

Hosted by Kevin W.

Joined in June 2022
Response rate: 100%

Things to do nearby

    Similar campgrounds nearby

      Campers also viewed...

        Popular searches in Kentucky

        RV sites
        Cave camping
        Camping with campfires
        Farm camping
        Forest camping
        Great views camping
        Dog-friendly camping
        Mountainous camping

        About us

        Gift cardsGeneral storeJournalCareersPressHipcamper FAQ

        Hosting

        Becoming a HostIs my land a fit?Professional campgroundsInsuranceStandardsHosting FAQ

        Everywhere You Want To Camp™

        Hipcamp is the #1 camping app to find and book campsites, from national parks to blueberry farms. Explore our collection of over 500,000 iconic public lands, well-equipped RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else. Browse our comprehensive maps, filter by your camping style, read millions of real reviews, and create free availability alerts. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars. Camp Your Way®

        Get Hipcamp, the #1 camping app.

        Terms of ServicePrivacy PolicySitemapLLMS
        © 2026 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
        Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.