72% (9)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Barren River Lake
Barren River Magic
Barren River Magic
99%
(223)
30mi from Barren River Lake · 83 sites · Tents, 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
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Noble Pine Campground
Noble Pine Campground
100%
(51)
31mi from Barren River Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We provide a farm experience in a small campground with 2 full bathrooms with hot showers, 10 rv/tent sites, 2 glamping bell tents, 1 glamping aframe, and 3 bedroom 1 bath cabin.
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
from
$36
/ night
Futurology Farms
Futurology Farms
100%
(10)
35mi from Barren River Lake · 5 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
from
$40
/ night
Runaway Adventures LLC
Runaway Adventures LLC
3.6mi from Barren River Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Runaway Adventures LLC – Rustic Nature Camping Near Barren River Lake
Looking to unplug and reconnect with nature? Runaway Adventures LLC offers a back-to-basics camping experience on peaceful, undeveloped land just 2 miles from beautiful Barren River Lake. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking your camper or trailer, or staying in one of our simple cabins, you’ll find the freedom to truly escape.
This is true rough camping — no frills, just fresh air, open skies, and the sounds of nature. Explore and hike the surrounding woods, stargaze by your campfire, or take a short drive to enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming at the lake. Our sites are ready for relaxation and perfect for adventurers who appreciate the wild side of Kentucky.
Come ready for an off-grid experience!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$27
/ night
The Big Easy Cabin TN Style
The Big Easy Cabin TN Style
83%
(3)
20mi from Barren River Lake · 1 site
Quiet, rustic cabin hidden amid 40 acres with a walking trail and fishing pond. Cabin is approx. 1200ft from main rd for that private, secluded, country feeling nestled in the woods. Covered front and back decks, fire pit with wood available, kitchen, and outdoor grill/stove that provide all your camp cooking needs. Potable, running water, electric, AC, and WiFi. With a spacious loft above the cabin, single bunk bed, and double bed inside, this cabin sleeps up to 8 guests. Guests must bring their own towels and bedding. Pets are welcome if they are properly treated for fleas and ticks prior to arrival. Great space to enjoy the quiet of nature.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$120
/ night
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Mammoth Cave
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Mammoth Cave
100%
(1)
22mi from Barren River Lake · 276 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
It's time to create amazing family memories with a little something for everyone when you visit Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mammoth Cave™. Celebrating our 35th Anniversary this season, our resort is surrounded by the natural beauty of Cave City in central Kentucky, home to the historic natural wonders found at Mammoth Cave National Park.
We offer a great selection of RV and tent camping sites or deluxe cabins with all the comforts of home. Guests also have access to resort amenities that include favorites like on-site activities with Yogi Bear™ and friends, swimming at Karst Beach, jumping pillows, and fishing ponds.
In addition to our amenities, Jellystone Park Camp-Resort at Mammoth Cave™ is near local kayaking and bike trails for a fantastic getaway experience.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$26
/ night
Rustic Kentucky Cabin
Rustic Kentucky Cabin
22mi from Barren River Lake · 1 site
Quiet, spacious log cabin retreat featuring classic tongue-and-groove woodwork and rustic charm. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath cabin offers a warm, comfortable layout with plenty of room for families or small groups. Nestled in a peaceful, private setting, it’s ideal for a relaxing getaway, nature lovers, or anyone looking to unplug and unwind.
Enjoy front-porch sitting, wildlife viewing (deer are frequent visitors), and serene country surroundings. Conveniently located just 20 miles from Dale Hollow Lake, the cabin is a great choice for lake trips, boating, fishing, and hiking, while still offering total tranquility.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$135
/ night
Creekdance, A Rustic Retreat
Creekdance, A Rustic Retreat
23mi from Barren River Lake · 1 site
The Cottage at Creekdance will be a unique experience. While I am only two miles from the Cumberland Parkway, when you arrive, you will be amazed at the privacy. You will feel like you are miles away from civilization. It is the perfect spot for meditating and rejuvenating. Come visit! Everyone is welcome!
The space
Creekdance is located on 20 acres of prime Kentucky vegetation in the hills of Kentucky. Dry Fork Creek runs adjacent to the entire property. While it is not deep enough to kayak, it is certainly fun to dip your toes in and walk through the ever-flowing water.
Several walking paths and bird boxes can be found throughout the property. It is a great place to write, paint, read, do yoga or just rejuvenate and "get right" with nature.
Get the best sleep of your life on a Nectar mattress with the sounds of the creek drifting through the window.
NEW this year - 125-yard golf driving range available. Golf balls provided. Bring your clubs!
Guest access
Guests have a private cabin all to themselves. They may feel free to wander around the property, venture onto the walking paths, walk in the creek, etc. The only space that is off limits is my cabin down the creek. Of course, if there is some kind of emergency, feel free to come find me.
Other things to note
While pets are allowed, there will be a $25 charge per day/per pet, paid to hosts upon arrival. I have a very friendly dog of my own on the property who free-roams. Also, if guests leave their pets in the cabin while they are gone, the pets must be crated.
Inside the cabin, the bathroom is equipped with an Incinolet toilet. I find that it is quite efficient if used properly. Instructions will be given upon arrival and are included on the wall in the bathroom.
We can only accommodate TWO guests at a time in the cabin due to the Incinolet's capability.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$124
/ night
NorthStar Holler
NorthStar Holler
23mi from Barren River Lake · 3 sites
One room cabin with bathroom, washer & dryer combo located on a private acre. Magical stargazing & peaceful retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$85
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
E
Edgar
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Cedar Ridge Cabin
It was fun even in the winter. Ain't nothing like a wood stove. There was a little mouse around but its winter and they like to be warm too. Made a fire outside, it fell real nice.
See more
S
Samantha
September 2025
With pets
Absolutely beautiful property. Not far from Mammoth Cave. 2D was a fantastic host, answered all our questions, and made sure we had what we needed to have a good trip. Truly a kind and hospitable man. Stayed 3 nights in dream catcher. It felt like falling asleep on a cabin porch. Will definitely be back. Could see this being a fun place for kids. Lots of woods, a river, and buildings on the property to explore. First time using hipcamp. So happy it went as well as it did!
See more
A
Angela
September 2025
Group trip
This place is AMAZING. We stayed in dream Catcher and we loved it!
See more
N
Nicole
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Barren River Magic
The peace pipe is a campers refuge! I loved the lower level sitting area, brought along flowers and a tablecloth and it made for a beautiful meditation/yoga sanctuary. The upstairs sleeping loft was a reprieve from the heat and had the best views of the land! Mostly, we spent our free time star gazing and strolling the river. It was an amazing getaway and we can't wait to come back!
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B
Brian
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Kozy Haven Cabins
Great little cabin for 2! Enjoyed our stay, would recommend this one specifically because it is in the back corner if you're looking for a little more privacy.
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May
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Cedar Ridge Cabin
Loved the privacy and the area. Really, cute cabin. No wall outlets so plan to bring a power bank
See more
J
Jeff
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Barren River Magic
Barren River Magic is always an amazing place to spend some time.
The glamp site was great and easy to get to and close to bathrooms and shower. I love sleeping on the porch outside with the “lean to” up. I highly recommend this experience
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R
Robby
July 2025
1 night at Barren River Magic
Loved this fun little compound of unique open-air cabins. Would recommend to others. Sprinkled about the property far enough from each other to really feel a sense of privacy to do your own thing.
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Aaron
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Barren River Magic
A remote, unique, magical escape that is one of a kind and somewhere i hope to return to
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K
Katie
July 2025
Group trip
We loved staying at Kozy Haven Cabins!! It’s cute, quaint, clean, and so comfortable🙌🏻🙌🏻! We stayed in Cabin 5 and when I say it was such an unexpected surprise how nice it was! Pictures don’t do this place justice. 10/10 recommend staying here for a wonderful getaway!! We will definitely be back again and plan to book future trips with our family and friends ❤️❤️❤️
See moreB
Benjamin
July 2025
With pets
We had a wonderful time at Barren River Magic! Such a unique place, and the perfect spot to leave everything behind for a few days. Will definitely come back again.
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Grace
June 2025
With pets
The Cedar Ridge Cabin was impeccably clean and had the coolest off-grid gadgets! I maintained a similar cabin for several years and know how much work goes into such a spot. The craftsmanship and attention to detail at this cabin was inspiring to say the least! My son and I enjoyed the adventure hike down to the river and watching the nighttime critters in the field. Thank you for opening up this lovely spot to guests!
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P
Paxton
May 2025
Weekend Trip to Kozy Haven Cabins
Great place to stay for a reasonable price! Very quiet and clean!
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D
Devin
May 2025
With pets
We loved staying in Danny’s cabin! Since we usually camp, this was the perfect mix of roughing it and glamping while still feeling like we were one with nature. Nothing was better than sitting on the porch and watching all the fireflies come out. Bring plenty of bug spray for the hike down to the river because there were lots of ticks.
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Siddharth
May 2025
Cherilyn
May 2025
2 nights at Barren River Magic
This is a truly magical camping location. It’s a very safe and secure area with multiple options of different glamp sites as well as traditional camping. The experience surpassed any ideas of expectations I could’ve even imagined. I highly recommend Barren River Magic.
See moreE
Ev
April 2025
1 night at Barren River Magic
Totum was a relaxing property maybe 150 feet away from a creek that was super relaxing to listen to all night. The campsite as a whole is super eccentric while still remaining cozy. 10/10
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M
Michele
April 2025
Weekend Trip to Cedar Ridge Cabin
My husband and I spent one night here after exploring Mammoth Cave National Parl. We loved how private and off grid it felt but still had all the cozy comforts .
See moreT
Trisha
March 2025
Weekend Trip to Kozy Haven Cabins
Me and my children went for a weekend getaway and it was perfect and perfect we really enjoyed it will be going back in the future
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N
Nina
December 2024
1 night at Kozy Haven Cabins
This was the perfect overnight stop on our roadtrip home from visiting family for the holidays. The space was comfortable and had everything we needed.
See more 72%
9 ratings · 3 reviews
A beautiful view and above average clean campsite. Shower houses might have been a little cleaner and could use some updating, but still above average of other camps I have visited.
I will not return to site B-50 as I was tent camping and there was not a good spot to set up. Would be okay for a pull through camper spot, except no electricity.
B
Bj J.
3 months on Hipcamp
October 2021
This park is beautiful. The views are breathtaking. I stayed there for a couple of months. Not a good place to be if there is government shutdown, which I did. You have to leave!
T
Teresa C.
4 years on Hipcamp
March 2020
Quite a treat to harvest a walleye or two right out the door of your campsite. Quiet, serene & scenic.
David E.
5 years on Hipcamp