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Beardsnest

Hosted by Kevin · Cave City, Kentucky
5 sites · RV, Tent · 30 acres
100%
·
132 reviews
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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.
Kevin is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
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 2025, camping here provides a glimpse into the fourth year of succession. This current phase is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie contrasted with the rocky and steep slopes of the mature forest. 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 (~525 seedlings as of March 2025), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. If you have only 2 days, 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 kayaking). Mammoth Cave is unique in the way that a study of the underworld will repeatedly draw the mind into a creative space of imagining what is beneath the surface, how these worlds are connected, while navigating park land and water. Note that we offer kayak trips that can be tailored to your schedule and travel constraints. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! Bundles of dried and split firewood are available onsite, usually a mix of oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle, delivered to the campsite. Kayaks are hosted on a suggested donation basis ($45) providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the national park. Pending availability, we offer tent setups as well to folks who want to camp but aren't traveling with gear (REI 4 person Half Dome). Tent setup comes with two sleeping pads (you will need pillows, blankets, etc.).
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5 sites

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Tent-only sites

2 sites
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Spicebush

100%
(12)
Tent site · Sleeps 3
The Spicebush campsite is perched over a canal that cuts lower until eventually entering the subterranean realm via a series of downstream sinkholes. Nestled in an opening, the camp sits just above a lush, wood-fern filled valley that is guarded by a panorama of steep, rocky hillsides and towering trees. 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).
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
No picnic table
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/ night
for NaN guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Forest Rim Overlook

100%
(7)
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).
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
Picnic table
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for NaN guests

RV/tent sites

3 sites
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High demandInstant book

Backcountry Rim

100%
(61)
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
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$32
/ night
for NaN guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site

Hickory Field

99%
(48)
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
from
$30
/ night
for NaN guests
  • Picture of the site
  • Picture of the site
Instant book

Frisbee Lawn

100%
(16)
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
from
$25
/ night
for NaN guests
from
$25
/ night
5 sites

Reviews

100% Recommend150 ratings · 132 reviews
Recommends
· December 2025
16 ft car ·
Hickory Field
Booked last minute. Sight met expectations and host was communicative.
A
Abby K.
2 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
16 ft car ·
Backcountry Rim
Enjoyed my time on Kevin’s land again. Always a great spot to camp and explore.
D
Drew F.
3 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
Tent ·
Hickory Field
So enjoyed the night away on Kevin’s peaceful property. Site was well kept and safe!
S
Sydney J.
3 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Lawn fun near Mammoth Cave
18 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
Frisbee Lawn
This is a great spot for a stop! Location is perfect for Mammoth Caves. The grass in the lawn was great for kids running around, Aswell as all the trails cut out around the property to explore. Kevin was responsive and friendly. Would stay here again!
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Fiona B.
3 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent ·
Hickory Field
Loved camping at Beardsnest! So peaceful, quiet, and the stargazing was spectacular. Kevin was able to recommend some wonderful activities in the area and was a pleasure to speak to. Highly recommend!
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Elizabeth E.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Camping with dogs
24 ft Class B ·
Backcountry Rim
Kevin's land was beautiful, just as described. Very nice area to visit!
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Teri G.
17 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
23 ft Class B ·
Frisbee Lawn
Kevin was super helpful with instructions and letting us know about the trails and features on the property. We had our area of land behind the barn to ourselves and enjoyed listening to the birds in the morning. His pups were sweet and hung out while we made breakfast outside. Would love to stay again the next time we are in the area.
E
Emily M.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Just what we were looking for
14 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
Frisbee Lawn
We had a wonderful time. It was quiet and beautifully maintained. We had asked for wood and it was raining when we arrived. Kevin was thoughtful enough to leave the wood under a wheel barrow and message us about it. The communication was great and it was conveniently close to Mammoth Cave.
L
Lia B.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Backcountry Rim
Its a perfect campsite, the mowed trails are really cool. We loved our weekend stay
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Lucas L.
4 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
A Fantastic Spot!
16 ft car · With pets ·
Backcountry Rim
This was a fantastic spot!! While all the sites were in a open field with trees around the edges - grasses and wildflowers were tall adding privacy and quiet. Closely mowed paths allow for vehicle travel as well as walking paths and spots had a campfire pit and a couple chairs. My pups and I had a great time with a nice view of the sunset! The host Kevin was extremely welcoming, quick to respond and very helpful suggesting good spots to visit while in the area. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
L
Laurie D.
12 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Backcountry Rim
My two sons and I had a magical stay at Kevin’s place. It was easy to find, he was a great host, and the clear weather made it all even more enjoyable. From the beautiful ecology to the clear night sky, we couldn’t have found a better spot to spend the night. My boys were almost more excited about the campsite than the caves! Certainly will be returning to the Beardnest to explore more of what the area has to offer.
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Jared M.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
Highly recommend
18 ft campervan ·
Backcountry Rim
This was a great place to stop over for the night in the middle of a long journey. Friendly dogs greeted me and bid be farewell and the property owner gave me recommendations for selecting a tour for mammoth cave. Campfire starter wood was provided. I’ll be back to stay on Kevin’s property whenever I’m in the area again. I look forward to seeing the progress he’s made.
M
Madelon S.
6 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Super Swell Spot
Tent ·
Backcountry Rim
Beautiful place and friendly host. I would certainly recommend it to anyone in the area.
J
Jesse M.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent ·
Forest Rim Overlook
Pretty cool spot. Privacy from the forest around, not a huge hike in. Had a little trouble finding the particular site once we got to the property. Recommend this adjustment to the Forest Rim Overlook directions: make your way to the treeline behind the house. Go left along the treeline. Right at the Y. Unexpected pluses: Running and filtered water close to the site. Cute, well-behaved puppies running around.
K
Ken F.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Frisbee Lawn
The space was simple and great. VERY close to Mammoth Cave Visitor Center, and Kevin has great land to hike back into as well.
R
Robert D.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
A safe natural retreat
Tent ·
Hickory Field
Magical, safe feeling and private. Kevin is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about restoring the land and the local species. Very close to the park. Again, while I felt safe here I also had plenty of privacy. The dogs are very friendly. I will be returning in the future.
K
Kristin O.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Tent ·
Spicebush
Kevin had several fantastic campsites, lots of trails to explore, and was extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. He gave us an amazing tour of the sites and trails, had firewood available, and was happy to help us get the most out of our stay. We also got to meet his dogs who were extremely friendly and fun!
J
Joey G.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Tent ·
Spicebush
Super great site with easy acess. Hike down was pretty easy and well marked trail. Also kevin gave us great tips aboit where to go and what to do in our free time.
I
Ian B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Beautiful Campsite and Kayaks, too!
Tent ·
Backcountry Rim
Great place to camp! Absolutely beautiful land, Kevin is a great host and the kayaking on the Green River, with his kayaks and his kind drop off and pick up, for a peaceful evening kayak, with the river to ourselves, was a trip highlight. He had a fire pit, wood and table all set up, even a frisbee, and beautiful private camping spots, with views and stars - a great place to camp. And a great home base for exploring Mammoth Cave National Park. Thanks, Kevin!
J
Julie S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent ·
Forest Rim Overlook
Great spot near Mammoth Cave National Park and Cave City. The site is well maintained and private. Would love to stay again next time I’m in the area
J
Joseph S.
4 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Kevin is a great host
Tent ·
Hickory Field
The site was absolutely beautiful and I highly recommend this place and would return.
E
Eric E.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
A Scene For Every Mood
Tent ·
Forest Rim Overlook
One of my favorite things about Beardsnest is how much variety there is amongst the different campsites. If you want to enjoy the open sky and swaying grasslands, you have Backcountry Rim, Frisbee Field and Hickory Field. If you want to have a fully immersive and magical experience, there is Spicebush, waiting for you at end of the winding path that leads you down to the forest floor, where you find yourself in a world all your own. Looking for something in the middle? Forest Rim Overlook gives you the experience of being nestled in the woods while still being very easily accessed. 5 stars, every time! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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Jordan K.
6 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Kayak Tour!
19 ft campervan ·
Frisbee Lawn
We had an amazing time at the frisbee lawn spot in our camper van! Awesome sunsets, beautiful meadow flowers, giant mowed lawn so many options to park depending what views you want with a long cord for power. Kevin was so knowledgeable about the ecosystem on his property and the surrounding area. You can tell he puts a lot of love into his space We did the kayak tour, Kevin dropped us off at the Denison ferry kayak landing and picked us up a couple hours later at the Green ferry landing. The water was moving fast so we just floated down the river. It was great! He was super communicative and we had fun chatting with him We also bought firewood from Kevin so that was very conviennent
C
Carly J.
3 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Backcountry Rim
Kevin is a great host. Very kind and accommodating with every interaction. It’s a peaceful and beautiful plot of land with lots to do in and around the area. The sunrises are unbeatable.
I
Isaiah R.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2025
Good spot.
Tent ·
Forest Rim Overlook
Nicely situated and well maintained small camp with a fire pit, table and two chairs. Thanks for an enjoyable overnight so close to Mammoth Cave NP.
B
Bruce C.
3 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Surpassing expectations :)
Tent ·
Hickory Field
My experience at the Hickory Field Campsite on Kevin’s land was exceptional. His directions were clear and the information he provided regarding the site was right on. I had such a lovely and peaceful night enjoying the campfire and the scenery. Additionally, Kevin’s friendliness and welcoming nature made me feel so content and safe while staying on his land. His 3 pups were also a highlight!!
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Caitlin S.
5 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Loved the Spicebush site
Tent · With pets ·
Spicebush
We did tent camping at the Spicebush site and it was awesome! Kevin was such a helpful and gracious host and the campsite was beautiful and tucked away in a what felt like a magical forest. The walk down to the site is on a lush trail that takes about 10 minutes. If we are back in the area we will definitely stay here again and recommend it to friends!
L
Lindsay M.
4 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
The perfect little spot
23 ft campervan ·
Frisbee Lawn
We very much enjoyed our stay at Kevin's Frisbee Lawn. It was the perfect location for the 3 days we were exploring the Mammoth Cave area. Kevin gave great recommendations of things for us to do in the area, he and his family are extremely friendly, and are very accommodating hosts. We appreciated the ease of getting to the campsite, the amount of seclusion/privacy the site offered, and the accessibility to amenities like the power hook-up. We enjoyed our peaceful evenings cooking on the campfire and watching the lightning bugs. Most of all we were happy to be contributing to a good cause. We would definitely stay here again.
K
Kandace S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Absolute delight!
Tent · With pets ·
Frisbee Lawn
This spot is such a treat! Very close to the national park and to town, yet secluded enough to relax and thoroughly enjoy being outside. Kevin is hands down the best host I’ve encountered so far! The field is very well maintained, not buggy or swampy, and is a dog’s paradise. I will definitely be back.
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Ariana N.
14 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Best Place to Camp in Mammoth Cave!
Tent ·
Hickory Field
You just won’t find a better place to set up camp in the Mammoth Cave area. Kevin and his boys are the BEST hosts and the land is absolutely beautiful. Don’t even get me started on the sweetest doggos you’ll ever meet! I’ve stayed at Beardsnest many times and will be back many more!
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Jordan K.
6 reviews

Location

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

Joined in June 2022
Response rate: 100%Response time: Within an hour

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