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The best camping in Buckhorn Lake, KY

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Stories from the community

Vyshnavi

6 days ago

1 night at Red River Gorge Glamping & Cabins

This was my first glamping experience and I simply loved it! The yurts looked more magical on site and we had a cozy bonfire and toasted marshmallows by the fire. Me and my friends are glad we chickened out of camping and did glamping instead because it provided us more comfort and coziness than camping. We woke up to horses running around near the area and had another fire. Totally worth the trip!

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Rustling Pines Campground

We only used the site for 1 night, whilst on a roadtrip and we did very much enjoyed our stay. Showers and toilet are very clean and luxurious. Would very much recommend.

Derek

2 weeks ago

18 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Bar on the Mountain

Definitely preferred when this was one private site, but the neighbors were ok. Way too close for comfort, though.

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Red River Gorge Glamping & Cabins

Amazing & safe place to stay for all of the adventures around Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge, & Daniel Boone.

Zygimantas

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Great location near Red River Gorge. Helpful hosts & great communicators.

Greg

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

We had an absolutely amazing time at The LAAAAND. The views were stunning in every direction, and the trails were a blast to hike beautiful, and full of variety. We only had two days to explore and easily could’ve spent a full week out there and still not seen everything. The campsite was peaceful, well stocked with firewood, spacious, and perfect for unplugging. We’ll definitely be back again!

Tania

3 weeks ago

10 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

I didn't get to camp bc the weekend i reserved was 20 degrees and i didn't want to do it. I still want to leave a good review because they kept good contact and emails of everything i needed to know on how to get there and a even a video of the road leading up to the camp. Im planning on reserving again when its not so cold!

Marissa

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Bar on the Mountain

Location! Location! Breathtaking view and plenty of space to set up camp and enjoy nature. The bar was a nice central hub for our cooking setup and to keep it dry without having to set up a tarp. Fire pit great size and the constructed seating (boulders, rock slab tables, benches etc) gave plenty of room. Where we pitched camp had plenty of tall trees around for privacy and blocking wind, which was extremely helpful as we got caught in a bit of some snow. The other site at this location is just across the loop but you wouldn’t notice so feels like you are in a private area. Toilet on site could use some emptying and cleaning as it was pretty full and dirty when we arrived. Other than that note amazing spot and can’t wait to come back when the weather is better!

Brad

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

Everything about the location, setup, and scenery are absolutely perfect! The little touches of extras was unexpected and definitely welcomed! The grill rack, extra chairs, table were awesome, and the canopy came in clutch when we arrived while it was raining. We brought a couple bundles of wood just in case, and was surprised to see plenty of precut wood to use as well! The short hikes to the cliff and waterfalls are amazing, and the sights were incredible! Just be extra careful if it rains while you are there. Parts of the hike/climbing can be extremely slippery, especially on the more sloped areas. Absolutely would stay here again and again!

Tom

3 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Red River Gorge Glamping & Cabins

It is a quiet beautiful place. Full hookups at each site were great for our four nights.

Joshua

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bar on the Mountain

Camping at Top Shelf was a perfect spot! The views were the best and it was very peaceful!

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Bar on the Mountain

A great site with great views. All around a great time!

Tyler

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Bar on the Mountain

I stayed at the bar with 5 of my friends there were lots of places to park our vehicles and set up tents and hammocks. On the second day it rained for hours we sat under the covered bar and joked and cooked food until it stopped and then we were right back around the fire ring. The gravel on the ground of the campsite helps the water to train quickly, we had no puddles. The view was truly captivating it made for a perfect base camp for our adventures into the Gorge. Even the porta potty was very clean. My only issue was the it’s hard to get tent stakes in the ground without a hatchet or hammer lucky I brought one with me so it wasn’t a big deal. I will return I. The future.

Matt

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Second time here. Very nice place and great hosts! My go to spot by the red river gorge

Chad

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

3 nights at The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

No wonder you have 100% on your reviews. The property is beautiful and the view overlooking the Daniel Boone National Forest is amazing. The camping spot was easy to get to with my Pickup truck and 16’ Sunray Sport Camper. The areas to hike and explore are well marked and there’s plenty of rock features to check out. Also not far from the Red River Gorge area to check out the Rock bridge and the Nada tunnel. Thank you for sharing your amazing property!

Allie

November 2025

14 ft pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at Bar on the Mountain

Very peaceful and quiet. Serene. Breathtaking sunrises. Private and spacious. The ultimate camp site for staying lowkey and having privacy.

Jessica

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

Beautiful location and very private. The views was great. I also appreciated the tarp to place my tent under.

Little grove of trees was a perfect place to set up the hammock.

Hannah

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Camp

Awesome campground would definitely recommend staying there!

Justin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

We loved camping here! Wish we had been able to take advantage of the included firewood but the weather had other plans. Good space between other sites and beautiful fall colors surrounding us. And our host was super helpful and welcoming. Hope to be back!

laura

November 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

Our little family stayed here in our pop-up camper, and it was nothing short of magical. The hosts were absolutely amazing — so kind, accommodating, and welcoming. They went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed and even met us upon arrival to help us find the spot and get parked easily. The campsite itself felt private and peaceful, surrounded by trees and nature with plenty of open space for our two-year-old and our dog to run, explore, and just be free. It was the perfect mix of seclusion and comfort — quiet enough to feel like our own world, yet close to everything we wanted to do near the Gorge. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The atmosphere, the hospitality, and the natural beauty all came together to make this one of our favorite camping trips yet. If you’re looking for a place to truly unwind and enjoy the outdoors near the Gorge, this is it. We can’t wait to come back.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Buckhorn Lake

Buckhorn Campground

4.4mi from Buckhorn Lake · 29 sites · Tents, RVs · in Buckhorn Lake

Trace Branch Campground

5mi from Buckhorn Lake · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Buckhorn Lake

Top-rated campgrounds

Bar on the Mountain

97%

(155)

31mi from Buckhorn Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Serenity Camp

98%

(357)

28mi from Buckhorn Lake · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Red River Gorge Glamping & Cabins

88%

(21)

39mi from Buckhorn Lake · 13 sites · RVs, Lodging · Stanton, KY

Welcome to The Retreat at High Rock – A Getaway in the Heart of Kentucky Tucked away on a peaceful stretch of Kentucky countryside, just 20 minutes from the iconic Natural Bridge, The Retreat offers a unique blend of comfort, simplicity, and scenic charm. What Guests Can Expect Set on 13 secluded acres, The Retreat features a thoughtfully designed mix of lodging and amenities that bring you closer to nature—without sacrificing comfort. Cozy Lodging Options Choose from 4 private, cozy cabins, charming glamping yurts, or full-service RV sites—perfect for everything from romantic getaways to small family adventures. Glamping Yurts Experience the perfect blend of rustic charm and cozy comfort. Each yurt features a comfy queen bed, mini fridge, fan, picnic table, and access to a nearby bathhouse with private restrooms and showers—ideal for a relaxed, close-to-nature stay without roughing it. Outdoor Living Each site includes access to fire pits and outdoor grills. Enjoy evenings soaking in a private hot tub, relaxing by the fire, or stargazing beneath a vast Kentucky sky. Nature Meets Peace & Privacy With 13 acres to explore, you’ll find quiet corners to unwind under the canopy of trees, as well as open spaces to gather, play games, or simply listen to the sounds of the woods. Nearby Things to Do Start your day with a peaceful hike through wooded trails, birdwatching, or sipping coffee as the morning mist rises through the trees. For more active adventures, cast a line at local fishing spots or paddle through nearby waterways by kayak. When you're ready to explore further, take a scenic drive along the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway, Historic Nada Tunnel, or the Bourbon Trail—each offering a full day of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich Kentucky culture. Local Flavor Visit nearby small towns (Stanton, Campton, Slade, Winchester, Mt Sterling) known for antique shops, cozy diners, farmers markets, and that unmistakable Southern hospitality. The Vibe Ideal for couples, solo travelers, and small families looking to unplug and reconnect. Whether you're here for a weekend recharge or a longer retreat, you’ll find the peace and quiet you've been craving—with all the comforts you need.

Silver Beams Glamping

23mi from Buckhorn Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Beattyville, KY

You won’t forget your time in this romantic, memorable place — an upscale, magical camping experience — “glamping” — that blends comfort and nature with a touch of glamour. Silver Beams Glamping Where starlight meets sanctuary. Tucked away in a tranquil woodland clearing and perched atop a rolling hillside, Silver Beams Glamping offers a luxurious escape beneath the canopy of the cosmos. Named for the way moonlight and starlight cast shimmering beams across the landscape, it’s a place where serenity and wonder intertwine.

Floras Retreats (29 Sites)

97%

(43)

45mi from Buckhorn Lake · 28 sites · Tents, Lodging · Jonesville, VA

About this space Enjoy amped up camping at this at this posh mountain escape! Here you can reconnect with nature outdoors while luxury furnishings and full amenities provide all the comforts of home inside a spacious, pet-friendly camper. Add in an epic outdoor entertaining area featuring a theater with 120” screen, hot tub, griddle, firepit, and deck and you have the ultimate camping adventure. Bonus – the site is located on 25 acres in the VA mountains with views of KY and TN! The space This pet-friendly, luxury camping experience is ideal for everything from weekend getaways to extended mountain sojourns. The camper’s interior is packed with all the necessities required for a comfortable stay: a full kitchen with Keurig coffee machine, hot and cold-water sink, microwave, refrigerator, stove, oven; large dining booth; comfy seating area; full bathroom with shower tub combo; 2 private bedrooms; A/C, heat; a flat screen Smart TV with streaming capabilities; and expansive windows that fill the interior with natural light. Outdoors is the ultimate entertainer’s paradise. Relax in the hot tub and enjoy theatre under the stars on the 120” elevated screen that can be seen from the entire site. Start mornings off with coffee and the smell of bacon sizzling on the outdoor griddle and end the days with a cold one from the kegerator. Every guest receives all the fixings needed for S’mores to roast on the firepit, and complimentary wood is provided that can also be used to cook up delicious meals on the classic campsite grill. With views for miles, wildlife sightings, and proximity to major area attractions, a stay here is without a doubt the best way to effortlessly experience the exciting world of “camping with benefits”! IMPORTANT: Once You have booked a reservation with us, immediately call our our receptionist Tammi at 812.381.4355 because our system does not integrate with our property management software. This is especially important if you are booking last minute or late in the evening. We may not get your reservation until the next morning and you will be locked out of the space. So immediately after booking a reservation, call Tammi so we can ensure it is accessible.

Rock Bottom Horse Camp

99%

(79)

45mi from Buckhorn Lake · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · Ewing, VA

We are open to all campers, no horse required. Our farm is beautifully located adjacent to the Cumberland Gap National Historic Park. The White Rocks trailhead is within walking distance and is a very popular for both horseback riding and hiking. The campground has a great view of the White Rocks and is located just a few minutes from Hwy 58 making it a convenient stop if traveling through. The campground is equine friendly, bring your horse trailer and stay the night after a long ride.

The Kilns @ The Red River Gorge

99%

(183)

32mi from Buckhorn Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 provides an area for rest and relaxation for those wanting to camp. while enjoying the outdoors. The KILNS got its name from large charcoal kilns that was a thriving family business in the late 50's early 60's. Although they are no longer functioning, they are part of our history. The camping area is nestled on a small 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. Coordinates: 37.75254° N, 83.60836° W Address: 300 Johnson Ln. Campton, KY 41301

Boone Valley Campground

96%

(139)

28mi from Buckhorn Lake · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Beattyville, KY

Boone Valley Campground is a family owned and operated business that offers 30 acres of primitive, RV, and Van camping. Conveniently located only 1 mile away from the Pendergrass Murray Recreational Preserve, 7 miles from the Miller Fork Recreational Preserve, and 15 miles from the Natural Bridge State Resort Park and Red River Gorge Area. Boone Valley is perfect for outdoor adventurers and families who want to spend and enjoyable weekend in nature. Ask us about guided OHV Tours in the area! We offer guided tours! New! 2 Nights camping at Buckhorn Lake State Park. Including Pontoon Guide all day. Price is $300 for 2 people. Max group allowed is 6. Offer available from July - September. Concessions Truck on the property! Enjoy local events! Boone Valley is located 5 miles from downtown Beattyville, KY. Camp with us on weekends of local festivals such as the Bourbon and Moonshine Festival and the Woolly Worm Festival. Onsite enjoy weekend live music, bonfires, and home cooking from the Boone Valley Kitchen.

The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

100%

(134)

42mi from Buckhorn Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. 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. (***Please note, we leave our personal camper on the property for the camping season, so you will see it when you arrive to the right of the campsite***)

Punkin Hollow Resort

92%

(6)

45mi from Buckhorn Lake · 6 sites · Lodging · Stanton, KY

Welcome to the enchanting world of Glamping at Punkin Hollow Resort! Our stunning property boasts five cozy private A-Frame cabins, each designed to provide a unique and immersive experience. Nestled on 340 acres of breathtaking landscape, Glamping offers a perfect blend of luxury and nature. Our shared clubhouse, equipped with two bathrooms and a well-appointed kitchen, serves as a communal space for our guests to unwind and connect. The beauty of Glamping extends beyond your cabin, as our property features winding trails, serene ponds, and babbling creeks, providing an idyllic backdrop for your escape. Situated at the entrance to the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway, Glamping is seamlessly connected to thousands of remote acres, offering over a mile of private frontage. Despite our proximity to the Red River Gorge's vibrant activities, restaurants, and trails, you'll relish the sense of seclusion and tranquility that our retreat provides. Immerse yourself in the serenity of nature while enjoying all the modern amenities. Experience the best of both worlds, where comfort meets adventure, at Glamping @ Punkin Hollow Resort. Only a short 15-minute drive transports you from the peaceful oasis of our resort to the lively excitement of the Red River Gorge.

Rockcastle Riverside

95%

(720)

46mi from Buckhorn Lake · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · Livingston, KY

Started as a retirement experiment, Rockcastle Riverside is a story told of music and family. We have almost 200 acres of beautiful country surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest in Rockcastle County. With a mile of river to swim, kayak, and fish and enchanted forest trails to hike, climb, or play, we have all of the best Kentucky has to offer! We have more established sites with fire rings, or you can find a place off the beaten path for more privacy, if you choose. The riverside is perfect for hammock camping, too. We love music and often host bands on the weekends. We rent kayaks and canoes on site, as well. While there are almost 200 acres to escape into, on any fine night, the stage sits wit a drum kit and the will to make music within the Daniel Boone National Forest. Come play, come get away....we have it ALL! We have a little of something for everyone!

Furnace mountain primitive camping

100%

(12)

40mi from Buckhorn Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Stanton, KY

60+ acres of woods, trails and 2 small ponds for catch and release. Car accessible sites or hike in. You pick a spot and set up wherever you like. There is a porta potty on the property and we have camping toilets if you need one. Just let us know ahead. No water or electricity is available on the property. There will be signs of some suggested camping spots we have used in the past also. Atv’s, dirt bikes welcome! Please take out what you bring in! Feel free to contact me for directions. GPS may not take you directly to Tiny Jones road, but it’s the 1st right after Knowlton church. There will be a sign on the road that says Tilting Rock Trail to the left. Follow the drive about a mile into the property and pick a spot where you like!

The best camping in Buckhorn Lake, KY guide

Overview

About

The landscape of Buckhorn Lake is truly a sight to behold. It’s as if the Kentucky River just busted through and carved these incredible valleys and green, winding hills, which are now affectionately known as the amazing Appalachian Mountains! You’ll only have to travel a short distance from Lexington to find this rugged and rural outback that surrounds the 1,230-acre Buckhorn Lake and the nearby Cumberland Plateau. If you drive down the main road for a bit, you’ll hit Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, where you can dine, lodge, or camp out. During the day, you’ll want to get out in the woods, so bring your best-loved, broken-in hiking shoes. Paddle around the waters or simply sit on the shore and take in the unsurpassable views. Words could not do this wilderness justice, so you might want to start packin’ now. This out-of-the-way gem is just the right amount of quiet, fun, and beauty that will hit the spot and leave you breathless.

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