The best camping in Daniel Boone National Forest, KY

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97% (34)

Waterfalls, arches, lakes, hiking—This massive national forest has all the recreation you could want  

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Stay at a public campground in Daniel Boone National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Patrick's Point River Camp

99%
(656)
11mi from Daniel Boone National Forest · 77 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Williamsburg, KY
Looking for a quiet peaceful camp on 212 acres in the Appalachians Mountains along side the Upper Cumberland River under a canopy of shade trees? We offer WIFI, hot showers, restrooms, kayaks, shuttle service, hiking trail, horse trail, wildlife stands, electric, water, easy access to the river, 130’ x 100’ covered pavilion, tent camping, cabins, RV sites, and much more. Whether you are looking for a unique swimming hole location, a place to go fishing, kayak access, hiking trails or just a quiet place to enjoy your morning cup of coffee, we promise you will not be disappointed. You may wish to lay in a hammock along the river or under our covered 100 x 130 pavilion. We also have a beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy. In addition to our relaxing atmosphere, this camp will also give you and your loved ones an incredible view to enjoy throughout your stay. Only 15.0mi via KY-90W by vehicle or 14mi by kayak to Cumberland Falls State Park with many hiking trails. One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, Patrick homestead-started soon after the Revolutionary War. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply along this river and these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Appalachian and on the bank of the Upper Cumberland River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!
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$20
 / night

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

98%
(634)
11mi from Daniel Boone National Forest · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Williamsburg, KY
Thank you for considering Clayton Geneva memorial campground for your camping trip. Please read the entire description including our rules and regulations. Also be sure to view the site map. The gravel driveway to the sites is passable with any vehicle As long as the vehicle Does not have an aftermarket lowered profile or entirely overloaded with gear. We offer camping ranging from primitive tent sites, to an actual cabin. Hikers, kayakers, canoes, Horses and riders welcome, located a couple miles from Daniel Boone National Forrest, seemingly endless trails through some of the most beautiful country. Bring your canoe and kayaks. Located 16 miles from Cumberland Falls State Park. Located 11 miles from Sheltowee Trade Adventure Park. Located 11 miles from Kentucky Splash Water Park. 11 miles from The Mint Casino!! Clayton Geneva Camp Ground began as a retreat for our family since the 70's. My grandparents, Donald Clayton Russell & Jewel Geneva (Davis) Russell, purchased this little piece of heaven to get away from the hustle and bustle of Cincinnati life. Judy was born in a little cabin just down the road. Judy & Don along with many family members have made cherished memories here over the years. We want to share its beauty with you and your family. Please consider, Clayton Geneva is a primitive campground, gravel drives and left as natural as possible. This is not a sculpted campsite or a concrete campground. The primitive area is as such, gravel, grass, sand terrain accessible by a one lane gravel drive that leads over the hill and around the cliff to the riverbank. This drive is absolutely passable however is left bumpy to keep traffic at a safe speed as pedestrians also walk the drive. It is passable by any vehicle as long as the vehicle is not overloaded beyond its ability and/or has an extremely low profile. Any area that is not an actual campsite is left to nature, not manicured, trimmed or sculpted. As you’ll find all the sites are clear please don’t expect micromanaging of wild growth of our native plants in areas around the sites as we reserve those areas for the wildlife to enjoy. Please consider all the above mentioned details, primitive campsites are not for everyone and that’s ok.
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$15
 / night

Mountainfire!

100%
(35)
12mi from Daniel Boone National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · London, KY
This area is an old tobacco and cattle farm on a point above Laurel Lake. We do a bit of farming and crafting when we can and thought we’d try and share our lovely spot! Much of the timber on the place is nearly 100 years old hardwoods, with a couple of fields throughout. I camp here myself too, and can recommend it for privacy! Learn more about this land: You can park an RV or trailer on these private sites within a 10min drive or short walk to Laurel Lake! Gravel roads to a field capable of holding up to two trailers with more planned in time! Primitive sites, Quiet n private. These sites are also within 10 mi of both London and Corbin Ky, with services available at both. Scenic Cumberland Falls is a short 25 min drive, and this place is adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest with plenty of hiking nearby.
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$20
 / night

The Harrican

98%
(30)
14mi from Daniel Boone National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · KY
Learn more about this land:This is a beautiful 200 acre farm that has been in my family for over 100 years. My father (at age 93) still harvests hay on 100 of the acres twice annually. Primitive campsites range from soft and scenic rolling fields with mountainous backdrops to completely wooded areas with the wild Rockastle River within 1 mile from the property. Discover a rare campsite available between two cliffs that the Native Americans originally called home. It remains just as they found it. There is an easily accessible large flat cliff area perfect for multiple tents and campfires! However, if a little more comfort is your style, you can unplug and unwind in a two story cabin located on a beautiful and secluded 2 acre pond with a dock and pier that can be reserved for $85 nightly. I classify the Lakehouse Cabin as primitive glamping! Wildlife is present every single day! We are near two Wildlife management reserve areas and completely surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forrest. Deer, turkey and so much more can be observed daily in their natural habitat. This is truly an amazing and rare gem right here in our beloved Bluegrass State!
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$28
 / night

The Harrican Lakehouse

99%
(280)
15mi from Daniel Boone National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · KY
There is a lot of history in this land. It's been in my family for over a hundred years. They worked the land with their hands and so have I. It's a special place. Come see for your yourself and be our guest at The Harrican! Learn more about this land: Unplug and unwind at this two story cabin built right on the water in the heart of the Kentucky Wildlands! Even though there is complete peaceful seclusion it does get a little noisy when the bullfrogs start their evening ritual. There is a dock and pier perfect for fishing or swimming. Firepit, grill with gas provided, two boats, fishing poles, lots of seating on the wrap around porch, two bedrooms; one with a queen bed and the other with two twin beds and just lots of natural beauty and peace! The BIG update everyone has been waiting for; the plumbing and electricity are now complete! We have all the ammenities to make your stay comfoetable and relaxing! Early and late check in and check out options available when availability exists the day before or after your booked stay. Thank you for interest in the Harrican Lakehouse!
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$35
 / night

Gray Hills

100%
(12)
21mi from Daniel Boone National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Gray, KY
**NOTICE - Please note that we will be wrapping up the season early and closing from November 1 through February 28, with a tentative re-opening date of March 1. During this time, we’ll be working on exciting updates and improvements—stay tuned!** 150 acres of raw, peaceful beauty tucked in the Appalachian foothills—just 20 minutes off I-75 near Corbin in southeast Kentucky, but a world away. Gray Hills is a primitive escape for families, friends, and solo wanderers alike—designed to quiet the chaos, steady the soul, and focus on what truly counts. Our sites are surrounded by rolling hills, quiet woods, and big skies. Choose your experience: Pondside – Camp by the water where frogs sing at dusk and mist rises at dawn. Ideal for fishing, relaxing, or spotting wildlife. Bring your own kayak or rent one on site (availability varies). Hilltop – Secluded, breezy, and wide-open, with stunning sunrise and sunset views. Feels like the edge of the world. All sites are primitive—no hookups, no concrete, just fire pits, natural trails, and the kind of peace that gets into your soul. Our dirt roads are a little bumpy to keep speeds safe. The campsites, trails, and key spots are kept cleared—the rest stays wild for the deer, turkey, and everything else that lives here (yes, bugs too—bring your repellent!). A nearby train also runs on its own schedule—it’s part of the holler charm. If you love it rugged, real, and peaceful, join us at Gray Hills where you can breathe deep and stay wild! Need help finding your ideal campsite? Let us guide you! Best sites for fishing - 1, 2, 3 Best site for kayak launch - 2 Best sites for most seclusion - 4, 6, 7, 8 Best sites for RVs/campers - 3, 5 Best sites for campervans - 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Best for large groups - 3, 6, 7 Best sites for stargazing - 5, 6, 7, 8 Best sites for sunsets - 2, 6 Best sites for sunrises - 7, 8 Best sites for hammock camping - 2, 3, 4, 8 Shaded sites - 1, 2, 3, 4, 8 Sunny sites - 5 (no shade), 6 (some shade), 7 (no shade) Best sites to Breathe Deep and Stay Wild - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
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$16
 / night

Rockcastle Riverside

95%
(720)
27mi from Daniel Boone National Forest · 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!
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$25
 / night

The best camping in Daniel Boone National Forest, KY guide

Overview

About

Gorgeous rugged terrain awaits you in this stunning, 708,000-acre national forest run by the National Forest Service. And it has everything.

Want to go fishing or boating? Head to Lake Cumberland, Cave Run Lake, or Laurel River Lake. The Red River Gorge is noted for its amazing roped rock climbing.

Are hunting or target shooting your thing? You're in the right place. If you want to lose yourself in nature while hiking, head for the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail—Or choose from dozens of other well-maintained trails, including equestrian trails. This massive park spreads over 21 counties with four separate ranger districts.

Cabins near Cave Run Lake make your visit to the forest easy and cozy. Also near Cave Run Lake, you can find tent and RV campgrounds, horse camping, and boat-in camping. There's more boat-in camping at Laurel River Lake, plus more equestrian camping in the Stearns District. Check out Lake Cumberland for excellent RV choices.

97%
34 ratings · 5 reviews