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Carter Caves State Resort Park

The best camping in Carter Caves State Resort Park, KY

100% (5)

The best camping in Carter Caves State Resort Park, KY

Carter Caves Campground

1. Carter Caves Campground

100%

(5)

129 sites · Tents, RVs · In Carter Caves State Resort Park

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

At Carter Caves State Resort Park, you’ll find a whole smorgasbord of amenities

Public campgrounds in Carter Caves State Resort Park are often sold-out.

Backwoods Hideaway

2. Backwoods Hideaway

100%

(29)

14mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 1 site · Lodging

This is a camping cabin, in the middle of the Daniel Boone National Forest. We are about 85 acres, surrounded by hundreds of acres of national Forest. We are located about 2 minutes from the Sheltowee Trail, and approximately 30 minutes away from Cave Run Lake, and about 30 minutes from Carter Caves State Park. This is a cabin with comfort. You can camp and also enjoy nature. The cabin is off grid, but has a generator for heat and Air conditioning. The outside toilet is close to the cabin and has a "Wash up" area. There is also an outdoor shower on the property just a short walk away, that features hot water. Everything you need to enjoy camping and hiking with a bit of comfort!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$60

/ night

Sandy Springs Campground

3. Sandy Springs Campground

100%

(29)

18mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 5 sites · RVs

Nestled between the Ohio River, Shawnee National Forest and river bluffs.  This campground is one of Adams county's best kept secrets.  We just purchased this property ourselves in November of 2018 and fell in love from the moment we placed our feet here.  Enjoy the views and simply watch the river go by.  

Pets

Full hookups

from

$65

/ night

Possum Ridge Ranch

4. Possum Ridge Ranch

100%

(115)

23mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our remote 375 acres part farm and part natural woodland nestled up to Daniel Boone Forest is ideal for hikers and nature lovers. There are several hiking trails onsite and plenty of woods to explore. ATVs or side by sides are welcome to be used on the main gravel roads and some designated areas of our property. There is plenty of wildlife but NO hunting is allowed. Some of our designated tent sites do have firepits and/or picnic tables. Our trek in sites do not have those options. Pets are welcome for $10 per pet/per booking and they do need to be leashed/under control at all times. This is an extra so please be sure to add that if you plan to bring your pet. Please pick up after them. We are a short driving distance from West Liberty, Cave Run Lake, Grayson Lake, Carter Caves, Morehead, Natural Bridge and Red River Gorge. We are approximately 20 minutes from the nearest store so you'll want to come prepared. We are located in West Liberty (Morgan County). There are 2 centrally located bathhouses with toilet, shower and sink and a hose for potable water. We have firewood for sale for $20 per stay and is an extra option when booking(use what you need during your stay and it is centrally located near bath houses) you can bring your own and you are welcome to gather from the surrounding area but please do not cut down any living trees/limbs. There is a centrally located community building with a Wifi hotspot, streaming TV, Keurig, microwave, fridge/freezer, toaster/air fryer, swing set, foosball table and darts.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$24

/ night

Family Farm Experience

5. Family Farm Experience

98%

(26)

23mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:What an awesome place for kids to experience farm life. Accessible on site is a shelter house, playground, farm animals for kids to see, feed or pet, and the privacy of a small working cattle farm to enjoy. We have a gas and wood pellet smoker, tv and DVD player, fridge and freezer, and tables under roof. There is a small game room in case of implement weather. Also have an above ground pool available in season. So much to do! Also local shopping in historic Maysville and Washington

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$75

/ night

Myhio Haven Horse Farm

6. Myhio Haven Horse Farm

99%

(86)

23mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 4 sites · Tents

Established in 1983 on a 60-acre plot of land right in the Shawnee State Forest. The property is beautiful with flat land, fields, and at the back are the foot hills of the Appalachian Mountains. We put a horse farm on the land in 2000. The horses here are my family and I want to expand and offer more opportunities on the land. That's when I came across Hipcamp! I'm excited to share a piece of my heaven that I'm fortunate enough to call home.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$30

/ night

Hideaway Hills Primitive Camp

7. Hideaway Hills Primitive Camp

100%

(12)

29mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 4 sites · Tents

**ALL SITES ARE ACCESSIBLE BY 4WD OR MODERATE UPHILL HIKE ONLY** Located in Boyd County, Ky (less than two miles from US 23), our 50 acres are on a one-lane, dead end road which makes for a peaceful, quiet night’s sleep under the stars and amongst the trees. Our sites are completely primitive (no running water, no electricity, no sewer) hike-in or 4WD accessible only, in several locations on the hills behind our residence. Potable water (2.6 gallons in a jug with spout) and portable toilet in privacy tent, or shelter, provided. *Permanent privacy shelter on two out of three sites* All sites are ideal for tent campers, overlanding-style rigs, or possibly a small, off- road trailer/camper, with fire ring and firewood provided at each site. You will have access to all trails (for hiking only) and shared access to the fishing pond (Catch and Release only at this time). There are plenty of trees for shade, hammocks, etc. There is also an abundance of wildlife: Birds, deer, turkeys, rabbits, squirrels, bobcats, coyotes, and even an occasional black bear. Large firepit at pond for socializing, if desired (Quiet time from 10pm to 8am as a courtesy to other campers). We are pet friendly as well as off-leash friendly (on leash on trails or pond area if not friendly). *We do have two off-leash dogs on our property as well* Whether you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a few days or just looking for a safe, quiet place to spend the night on your way to your next destination, we hope you'll choose to spend it with us at Hideaway Hills! Find us on Facebook for videos, then like, follow, and share! 😊

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$27

/ night

Waterfront on The Edge

8. Waterfront on The Edge

99%

(100)

32mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 4 sites · Tents

Each campsite is along the waters of Ohio Brush Creek. This sacred waterway is also home to the Serpent Mound. Ohio Brush Creek is The Edge of Ohios Appalachia! The is much to be discovered in an area of glacial boundaries and ancient earthworks with 31 state and private nature preserves for hiking. And great paddling adventures on OBC and The Ohio River at The Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Wifi is available but very weak to non existent signal as you are in rural Appalachia.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$41

/ night

Trace Space KY

9. Trace Space KY

100%

(20)

33mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 1 site · Lodging

Ready to share your passion for an eco-friendly tiny camping cabin near Cave Run Lake and the Red River Gorge with someone who shares your love of sustainability and nature, too? This transforming aframe cabin is perfect for nature lovers, campers, and eco-conscious explorers eager to learn, see, and stay, leaving a wildlife-friendly footprint. The tiny cabin is a unique transforming A-frame camping cabin that occupies a compact area, certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a wildlife habitat yard and recognized as a certified garden and monarch waystation through monarchwatch.org. TSKY is located 3 miles from Long Bow boat dock on Cave Run Lake, 10 minutes from the Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail, and 18 miles from the adventures in the Red River Gorge. Outdoor seekers and enthusiasts will appreciate the nature trails, the lake's pristine waters, and the opportunity to explore the Daniel Boone National Forest or to simply rest and unplug. There are short hikes within a 20-minute drive, each offering its own unique discovery: arches, an overlook, a cave, and a 60-foot waterfall nestled within a small scenic canyon. With so much natural beauty to explore, your stay at our A-frame camping cabin is a perfect base place to Embrace Nature's Pace.

Toilets

Campfires

Wifi

from

$52

/ night

Pine Tree RV Park

10. Pine Tree RV Park

100%

(25)

37mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 2 sites · RVs

My campground has 2 gravel hookups. Each hookup has city water, 50 amp electric, and sewer hookup. If you need 30 amp, I will rent a refundable reducer for $20. My house is nearby. Beautiful Cave Run Lake is nearby. It is 6 miles from the campground. One can hike, fish, kayak, boat ride etc…. We are 21 miles from Natural Bridge and 15 miles from Red River Gorge!!

Pets

Full hookups

from

$40

/ night

Bear Pond

11. Bear Pond

98%

(44)

39mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Serene, Rolling Hills, Fresh air. Hiking Buzzards Roost, Canoe/Kayaking @ MoonDoggie LIVERee, visiting Family Traditions Animal Zoo, Miller’s Amish Furniture and Bakery, Shawnee National Forest, Adams State Lake, Serpent Mound, Tranquility Wild Life Shooting Range, or even just stargazing. Your away from everything but close to what ever you want. Bigfoot Country (Sasquatch Hunting is allowed, however like fishing, they are catch and release only😎) . https://www.cincymagazine.com/3d-flip-book/adams-county-2024/ Nice private spot accommodates Tent Camping, Car camping, or even if your taking an Overland Trip. Bear Pond will accommodate small RVs and Travel trailers. Nola's Cabin is a New availability as an Extra. Nola's Cabin is a Cozy small quiet cabin situated at the end of the gravel driveway under the trees. Overlooks the small valley down into the hill across the creek. Nice cozy place out of the elements. Water and Electric is available on site, with only Electric in Nolas Cabin. Nolas Cabin accommodates 4 people nicely. Twin (1) over full bunk (2) with Trundle (1). 6 inch Memory foam pads with liners are present on beds. Get a good nights rest while on your getaway, and still enjoy your outdoor cooking, fishing and star gazing. During inclement weather, a single serve K cup style coffee maker and Microwave are available to start your morning off. Bear Pond does have garbage bags upon request. But we ask you carry your refuse out with you due to the wildlife. Bear Pond is Furry Family Friendly. Just be mindful of possible wildlife if your Furry family members is off leash. The AC/Heat is supplied by a portable heat pump. So it could take an hour or so to cool or warm Nolas Cabin depending on the Inside ambient temperatures.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$35

/ night

Shasta Valley

12. Shasta Valley

96%

(58)

40mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The idea of Shasta Valley came to us through years of traveling in developing countries and falling in love with communal living and camping culture. We are excited to build or dream and share it with you! Learn more about this land: We are nestled between cave run lake and the north entrance of Red River Gorge off the beaten path. Enjoy 20 Acres of private forest, creeks, waterfalls, and a giant open hill top great for larger groups. We have hilltop car camping and tent camping on a 3 acre field surrounded by forest. Bring your tents, van, overlanders and small campers (pulled with a 4wd) to Shasta Valley! Hiking: 1.5 Miles to Sheltowee Trace Trail 6 Minutes to Broke Leg Fall 10 Minute to Devils Market House Arch 20 Minutes to Jump Rock, Indian Staircase, Gladie Welcome Center and all the other highlights of the north side of the gorge!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$26

/ night

HAYMARK FARMSTAYS Private RV Sites

13. HAYMARK FARMSTAYS Private RV Sites

91%

(28)

42mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Haymark Farm is a 285-acre farm in Ewing, KY, where alfalfa hay is produced. The farm has picturesque ridges and hills at one of the highest elevations in the area, allowing spectacular sunrise and sunset views. Three different branches of Buchanan creek begin on the farm and run together on the back of the property. There are also two small ponds and several barns (including one for your horses) on the property. We have three private RV sites (please see individual listings): RUFUS RIDGE RV BARN WALTER'S BARNYARD RV SITE CLYDE'S PRIDE RV SITE You are welcome to explore our farm! Take a hike; fish (bring your own pole and supplies); or relax around the campfire (we'll supply the wood). We generally have cattle in our pastures; and we also want you to meet our small, friendly farm animals! We hope you enjoy your time here at Haymark Farm, where Mark's great-grandfather Rufus began farming more than a hundred years ago. *Call us if you are bringing horses (up to 6) for details and pricing. We have also hosted donkeys, mules, goats...whatcha got? (We sell award-winning hay.) *We are one mile from Handi-mart grocery/gas in Ewing, and 10 miles to Flemingsburg, with restaurants. Don't miss the famous covered bridges, especially Goddard Bridge, and the Dinner Bell Amish store in Flemingsburg. We are 8 miles to Blue Licks State Park, 15 miles to historic Old Washington (have breakfast at Lil Jumbo's and shop at Local 68); 20 miles to charming Maysville on the Ohio River (good eats and important history); and 50 miles to Lexington (with The Kentucky Horse Park nearby).

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$54

/ night

The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

14. The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

99%

(136)

43mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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***)

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$59

/ night

The Viking Longhall

15. The Viking Longhall

100%

(542)

45mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging

The Viking longhall has been 9 years in the making by a group of semi serious Viking enthusiasts: the result is a 60 foot long building that has 18, 8,x4' sleeping berths. Set apart from the main open area it also boasts 2 meeting rooms and a kitchen. The campsite is a very peaceful place. Some go as far as to say a healing place! We are proud of what we have achieved and now want people to come out and enjoy it also. The field is close enough to the Appalachian highway (state route 32) for convenience, but far enough not to be bothered by it. The area is steeped in Native American culture. In fact, the world famous Serpent Mound is but 8 miles away, with many other Adena culture sites within easy driving distance. It's also in the heart of the Amish community. The area is known for its natural beauty with many hiking trails and canoeing opportunities. The area is awash in beauty and history from the ancient mound culture to the amish culture. The area has many hiking trails some of which are part of the buckeye trail and range in length from an easy 1 mile loop to rugged hikes of many miles. Come out and share the land that we have loved for the last 30 years PLEASE NOTE….WE WILL NO LONGER BE SUPPLYING BEDDING OR TOWELS.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$44

/ night

Tranquility Spring Campground

16. Tranquility Spring Campground

98%

(125)

46mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Campground is located on a plateau along county highway CR-100 between Peebles and Seaman. A natural artesian spring located just below the campsites. Several hiking trails wind DOWN wooded hillside of 69 acre property to meadow and small creek that snakes its way through southern boundary. Relax at the campfire after strolling my private hiking trails. Visit nearby Serpent Mound home of the world's largest surviving Native American effigy mound. Visit Millers Bakery and Furniture at nearby Wheat Ridge Amish community. Walk across county road CR-100 to hunt or explore the public 4,254 acres on Tranquility Wildlife Area.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

$22

/ night

Turtleback Ridge

17. Turtleback Ridge

98%

(25)

47mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Turtleback Ridge is a collectively owned farmstead perched on one of the fine ridges of Robertson County Kentucky. With 100+ acres of woods, plus fields and gardens to explore there is plenty of intrigue for those interested in a relaxing retreat into nature. Home of Turtleback Ridge brewery that brews a wide variety of ales and ciders emphasizing the local terroir through the use of local fruits and foraged ingredients. The taproom of the brewery operates Fridays: 5-10 pm; Saturdays: noon-10 pm; Sundays: noon - 6pm . We close seasonally in early December and reopen in early March.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$20

/ night

Home Afarm Co-op

18. Home Afarm Co-op

96%

(84)

47mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Come relax atop the Appalachian foothills of southern Ohio. Enveloped in the heart of the Tranquility Wilderness Area, our 11-acre property features a mix of native pawpaw, peach, pear, and persimmon trees, deciduous forest, cedar woods, wild meadows, a small swimming pond, and a large accessible field for tents and space to play. Trails through the woods are being developed, and facilities expand gradually with the seasons. Enjoy the mellow soundtrack of birds, crickets, and frogs, along with incredibly clear night skies ideal for stargazing. Nearby, visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, foraging, fishing, hunting, and swimming on site and at several state parks and historic sites within 10–30 minutes of the farm. Amish country is close, with bakeries, markets, furniture shops, and greenhouses. Our primitive campsites are spaced for privacy. A gravel parking area is available near the Cottage, with additional grass parking in the upper field. Sites may be walk-in only depending on weather and ground conditions. We hope you'll enjoy sharing the orchard, meadows, forest, and pond with us. Home Afarm is a rustic, eco-conscious retreat — perfect for quiet reflection, nature immersion, and small gatherings under the stars. "Roads go ever ever on, under cloud and under star. Yet feet that wandering have gone turn at last to home afar(m)."

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$20

/ night

D.J.’S Camp LLC

19. D.J.’S Camp LLC

94%

(33)

35mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 3 sites

This two-site campground is located in Wellington, KY (Menifee County). Water, sewer, and 50/30 amp. electric are supplied at each site for your self-contained rig to camp. Wifi is included in your site fee. Firewood is supplied free of charge to use in our firepit. Long Bow Marina is just 3 miles away so bring your boat. Cave Run Lake Dam, Natural Bridge State Park, Broke Leg Falls, and Red River Gorge are just minutes away from our campground. If you are attending an event at Sunset Ridge Farm/Wedding Lodge, it's only 4 miles away.

Close To Carter Caves

20. Close To Carter Caves

100%

(2)

4.8mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 1 site · Lodging

Enjoy the day at the beautiful Carter Caves State Park and escape the crowds when you stay at our house! The Natural Bridges and river pictured are at Carter Caves state Park. Plan to unplug and unwind down a narrow road in our open floor plan, three bed and one bath home. Two bedrooms each have a queen bed while the third has a set of bunk beds. The living room also has two futons. Bedding and towels are not provided, so please bring your own! The kitchen, however, should have most everything you need.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$50

/ night

100% (5)

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Top-rated campgrounds near Carter Caves State Resort Park

Backwoods Hideaway

100%

(29)

14mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 1 site · Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$60

/ night

Sandy Springs Campground

100%

(29)

18mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 5 sites · RVs

Pets

Full hookups

from

$65

/ night

Possum Ridge Ranch

100%

(115)

23mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$24

/ night

Family Farm Experience

98%

(26)

23mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$75

/ night

Myhio Haven Horse Farm

99%

(86)

23mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 4 sites · Tents

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$30

/ night

Hideaway Hills Primitive Camp

100%

(12)

29mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 4 sites · Tents

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$27

/ night

Waterfront on The Edge

99%

(100)

32mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 4 sites · Tents

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$41

/ night

Trace Space KY

100%

(20)

33mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 1 site · Lodging

Toilets

Campfires

Wifi

from

$52

/ night

Pine Tree RV Park

100%

(25)

37mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 2 sites · RVs

Pets

Full hookups

from

$40

/ night

Bear Pond

98%

(44)

39mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$35

/ night

Shasta Valley

96%

(58)

40mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$26

/ night

HAYMARK FARMSTAYS Private RV Sites

91%

(28)

42mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$54

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

David

3 days ago

20 ft campervan

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

Drive in was a piece of cake! This camp spot has Daniel Boone National Forest/Red River Gorge views without the hike. I hope to return soon!

Emily

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Viking Longhall

Outstanding experience as always! We love this space and David is so accommodating

Brittany

December 2025

Weekend Trip to The Viking Longhall

Amazingly unique!! 10/10 recommend! Will definitely be returning in early fall.

Lauren

December 2025

With pets

1 night at Backwoods Hideaway

Our second stay! Once during Fall and this time Winter. We hope to visit again in all the seasons because each season has something unique to offer in these beautiful hills. Even in 30 degree weather of December, we arrived to a toasty warm cabin all lit up for us. Once we got settled for bed, we turned off the generator and stayed warm all night. (We did add our sleeping bag on top of the mattress just in case.) There's always firewood to enjoy an outdoor fire, coffee, and games/coloring for kids, lots of woods and creek to explore, and it's so peaceful and private! Cabin and outhouse are super clean! I highly recommend even in the Winter. Tip: if you stay when it's freezing, the shower may not be on- just ask, and I would bring the outdoor hand washing water inside the cabin at night so it's not freezing cold the next morning. We take a portable power bank with us to charge phones so that we don't have to turn on the generator for that. We don't have phone service there, but you don't need it. Unplug! There's wifi you may be able to connect to closer to his driveway or he's the type of host you could knock if you're having a real emergency. There's a restaurant gas station very close by with food and Wifi. The hosts are incredibly kind, fun, friendly people, generous also because with their price, really don't make money on this to justify the work involved. They just like sharing their slice of heaven as a gift! Hope you enjoy it as much as we do and take good care of it!

Maura

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Viking Longhall

We had such a wonderful experience and have every intention of going back.

Ashley

November 2025

Tent

With pets

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

This is our second time visiting this site - we love it! Lots of space and privacy. Great spot for camping.

Shohei

November 2025

With kids

2 nights at The Viking Longhall

We had an amazing time staying at David's hand-built yurt! David is a wonderful host, making sure we had what we needed and providing helpful info while giving us our space. There's plenty to do, from axe throwing to board games to great hiking trails nearby.

Carl

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Viking Longhall

This is my 5th time staying at the campground, everything about it is incredible! David is a fantastic host that has created a truly one of a kind and magical place for friends to get together and make memories.

Marie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Ridge Ranch

Liz is simply fantastic! The bath houses are very clean and well stocked. Staying here is like staying at a 5 star hotel, only it’s outside where we campers want to be. It’s an absolute must.

Greg

November 2025

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!

Samantha

November 2025

1 night at Home Afarm Co-op

This cabin was great! True dark sky area was amazing. We had a wonderful view of the northern lights. Highly suggest the extra $20 for the hot tub. Everything was clean and cozy!

Tania

November 2025

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!

Kaitlynn

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Backwoods Hideaway

Great place! So peaceful and quiet. The host provided everything we could need, which was so helpful! I loved that my dog was able to go with us, and he was able to be off-leash! Will be coming back in the future!

Brad

November 2025

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!

Isaac

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Home Afarm Co-op

Great place with great vibes. It was a nice valley space that kept us away from winds that day, and a nice fire spot to warm up after a rainy day.

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!

Jody

November 2025

2 nights at The Viking Longhall

We had an incredible time at the yurt! David was an amazing host: he greeted us and shared all kinds of local information and tips on hikes and activities and brought us coffee in the mornings. He has built a magical place and put so much passion, care and attention into everything there. The nature and activities on the property can fill days. We loved the yurt Viking decor, propane fire in the middle and the incredible layers of soft bedding! We will be coming back for sure.

Josh

November 2025

Tent

7 nights at Home Afarm Co-op

The back pocket on Basil's property was on a dead end road no one around no one to bother you no noises through the area oh no great spot to be camping... Glad I found it last minute to get down there and make a good hunting trip out of it... Memories will be forever

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.

Tonya

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at The Viking Longhall

We enjoyed our stay at The Viking Longhall. The setting is peaceful and the grounds are well cared for. The communal kitchen and fire-pit area were nice touches. The host was friendly and helpful.

The best camping in Carter Caves State Resort Park, KY guide

Overview

About

Kentucky’s largest concentration of caves lie hidden beneath the forested hills of the Carter Caves State Resort Park. Venture underground to admire Cascade Cave with its 30-foot subterranean waterfall and X Cave with its dazzling stone arches, spirals, and pipes. More than 30 miles of trails wind through the surrounding woodlands, so bring your hiking boots, mountain bike, or horse, and set out to explore. That’s not all—there’s also a rock climbing and rappelling area, an 18-hole miniature golf course, and the 45-acre Smoky Lake, where you can fish, boat, or rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.

Notable campgrounds

Best for family campers: Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground has primitive tent camping and RV sites with electric hookups.
Best for horsey Hipcampers: Equestrian Campground has eight RV sites with electric hookups and space for horse trailers.
Best for backcountry campers: Eagles Nest Campsite has a half-faced shelter and backcountry tent site along the 4 C’s Trail.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve 129 tent, RV, or equestrian campsites at Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground via the Reserve America website.
Permits for the Eagles Nest and Johnson Homeplace backcountry campsites can be reserved by contacting the Lewis Caveland Lodge.
Campsite reservations open 12 months in advance and should be made a minimum of one day before arrival.

When to go

Outdoor adventures can be enjoyed through all four seasons at Carter Caves. Plan a summer visit to paddle the lake, or come in spring or autumn when the weather is ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and rock climbing. Bird-watchers will be in their element in winter and early spring, while cave tours are held daily throughout the year. Carter Caves State Resort Campground stays open year-round.

Know before you go

Carter Caves State Resort Park is 90 miles east of Lexington or about a 90-minute drive, off Interstate 64.
There is no admission fee, but camping reservation fees apply. Some activities, such as miniature golf and cave tours, charge a fee, and fishing permits are also required.
Facilities include a lodge, restaurant, and bunkhouse; a welcome center and gift shop; restrooms and picnic areas; and a boat launch.

100%

5 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· July 2020

Carter Caves Campground

We have been coming to Carter Caves Camp ground for seven years with the kids and grandkids. Mike that takes great care of the campground and always takes time to say hello and welcomes us back, has an amazing team that keeps the bathrooms kept up, and the grounds are always kept up. We love the friendly staff,Katie, Ashley, many more . We look forward to the haunted trail, and all the other amenities that come with the campground glow in the dark putt putt golf, karaoke which our whole family got mike and his team to join us what a blast that was 2019,, we put the kids and grandkids up in the cottages, which was wonderful. The walking trails are wonderful, deer, fox, all kinds of birds, squirrels, Thanks for making us Happy Campers.