Camping in Barren River Lake State Resort Park

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Discover Barren River Lake State Resort Park's natural splendor.

Top camping in Barren River Lake State Resort Park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Barren River Lake Campground

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100 sites · RVs, Tents · In Barren River Lake State Resort Park

Whether you are a glamper or just a plain’ old outdoors camper, Barren River Lake has what you need

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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Barren River Lake State Resort Park adventure.

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Stories from the community

Joseph

8 hours ago

26 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Noble Pine Campground

The camp site was very clean and peaceful. And the host was amazing and communicative. The bathrooms were nice and clean with towels provided. I'm defintely not used to bathrooms this nice while camping! The sunsets were beautiful! And visiting the farm animals was nice. We were camping to explore mammoth cave, but other campers had horse for the bridle trails and it was nice to get to see them as well. All in all i highly recommend this location!

Weekend Trip to On the back of the farm

The quietness was amazing could not hear anything slept so peacefully

2 nights at Beardsnest

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

1 night at Camp Nashville Highland Rim

I'm so glad I navigated to the site in daylight, because going up the steep drive in the night would have felt impossible. I followed the host's detailed directions and took my car SLOW and STEADY and made it up with no issues. The steep drop off on one side begs for caution going up or down, but once you're at the top, the level ground is comforting. The main campsite is spacious and in a beautiful clearing with plenty of room for a large tent and seating area. I explored the lower campsites, but did not set up there. There was some refuse in the woods, and it just did not feel as welcoming as the main site at the top of the clearing. As I was the only camper there that night, I was able to set up in my preferred site. Since sites are first come, first serve, I recommend arriving early if you're worried about sites being taken.

Weekend Trip to The Slab (by the Barren)

Nice laid back spot to camp and play in the water!

3 nights at Beardsnest

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.

2 nights at Noble Pine Campground

Really great spot, laid back camping. Bathroom had towels and toiletries provided which was a really nice touch. Watching sunset next to the horses was really beautiful. (Ps if you are visiting Mammoth Cave National Park it’ll be 40ish minute drive to the visitor center, but when you search for the park itself, Google Maps will say it’s only a few minutes away).

2 nights at Noble Pine Campground

Nice bathrooms and space for fire pit and campsite. Sites were a bit close, but still a nice spot.

2 nights at Noble Pine Campground

i loved the area, everything was amazing! the bathrooms were very clean, there was a lot of space, and the animals were so cute!

1 night at Beardsnest

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.

1 night at Noble Pine Campground

This site was wonderful for our family visiting Mammoth Cave. Kristen was a joy to talk with and very responsive. The animals were lovely to see and interact with, the bathrooms were clean, and the site had everything we needed. Couldn't have asked for a better place. We would love to stay again if we visit again.

Weekend Trip to Noble Pine Campground

We had a lovely stay this past weekend! The scenery was beautiful and peaceful — a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature. The goats, horses, and chickens were such a fun and charming bonus. Kristen was a wonderful host, super kind and welcoming. She gave us a great tour when we arrived and was easy to communicate with throughout. It’s also a manageable and beautiful 40-minute drive to the Mammoth Cave Visitor Center, which made it a great location for our trip. Would definitely recommend!

Weekend Trip to The Slab (by the Barren)

Absolutely perfect. Hiking, fourwheeler routes, river fun, plenty of space for privacy, apparently ONLY nice people come here because our neighbors were all kind and helpful. Carrie is a treasure, very accommodating. Concert/hang-out Hall. So neat. Loved my time here.

Weekend Trip to The Slab (by the Barren)

The best trip we’ve had to date! We will definitely be back, this was everything we wanted and more.

3 nights at The Slab (by the Barren)

My husband and all the guys in the family loved staying at The Slab! The uncles and nephews go camping several times a year, but this was the first time to visit The Slab. They loved swimming and fishing in the creek, and love having a place to bring the dirt bikes. The sites are roomy and campground is spread out giving everyone private. Carrie is wonderful host. We will be back!

2 nights at Noble Pine Campground

This campsite was amazing! Our host was responsive, helpful and kind. My daughter really enjoyed her time with the horses, goats and chickens. We would highly recommend!

2 nights at Noble Pine Campground

Lovely, thank you. Super helpful when our stuff got soaked. Thank you!

2 nights at The Slab (by the Barren)

I absolutely love the primitive style of the slab.

1 night at The Slab (by the Barren)

Great spot by the river. Nice cold water. We went during the weekn and it was nice and peaceful.

3 nights at Noble Pine Campground

We loved this campsite! So quiet and peaceful, bathrooms were well kept. Loved that the firewood was provided, and we enjoyed the yard games. Would stay here again!

Top-rated campgrounds near Barren River Lake State Resort Park

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The Slab (by the Barren)

80 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents500 acres · Fountain Run, KY

Due to circumstances beyond our control, we are broken hearted to announce that we will be closing our doors at midnight on July 13th 2025. We want to thank everyone that has came out to the farm over the past five years and supported us. It was a genuine pleasure to have the opportunity to meet each and every one of you, and to share our beautiful family farm with you, your families and friends. We will be refunding anyone with reservations after the 13th of July 2025 and hope that you all can find another hidden gem like ours, and continue to enjoy and make memories in the great outdoors. Thank you so much for all of your amazing support, reviews, and recommendations over the years. Our hipcampers are what made The Slab such an amazing place, and we are truly sorry that things didn't work out to where we could stay open. Kent and I are still looking into other options as to how we could move forward in the future with the part of the farm that we still own. So stay tuned for announcements for 2026. You never know what the future holds...

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Noble Pine Campground

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Mammoth Cave, KY

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.

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Beardsnest

5 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Cave City, KY

This new-in-formation ecological art project is currently recruiting visitors to backcountry 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, which at this phase is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie seeded with a growing variety of native flowers. Most likely a good fit for those who are self-sufficient and like to avoid busy camping areas, 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 were camping near the headquarters of a satellite nature reserve. Water tap and hose by main house parking area, for cleaning dishes, spraying off, or filling reservoirs. 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 the land and water. We offer custom kayak departures and pick-ups 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 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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Hillside Hideaway 10 Mins off I-40

1 site · Lodging52 acres · Gordonsville, TN

Discover our 52-acre rustic retreat on Club Springs Road, nestled conveniently between two boat ramps, just 10 minutes off I-40. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings with abundant wildlife—deer, birds, and even bats at night add to the charm. Although a bit overgrown (we’re actively working on it!), you’ll find a clear path from the A-frame to the outdoor toilet. Plus, you're just a short drive from Center Hill Lake, prime fishing on the Caney Fork River, and several breathtaking waterfalls within 30-45 minutes. It's a slice of nature waiting for you.

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Barren River Magic

83 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents75 acres · Edmonton, KY

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.

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Camp Nashville Highland Rim

9 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Goodlettsville, TN

Primitive camping near Nashville on a secluded hilltop nestled in a hardwood forest. Flat areas for tents, car / van camping, and trees for hammocks. Plan to carry your trash out with you. Do not leave trash on property. Please read all details / rules, and share with family or group. Drive to camping location. First arrive / first choice of favorite of available spaces upon arrival. Spaces are not numbered or pre-assigned. Camping guests supply camping gear. No gear rental available. Amenities: 2 community water hydrants, community vault toilet, fire pit at each site. Firewood bundles available for additional fee on HipCamp or VENMO. Five gallon bucket equals a bundle. Firewood located in rack at top of hill. Return bucket if used to carry firewood. Outdoor hot water heater for shower Apr-Oct, after forecasted freezing temperatures. Kid friendly. No extra charge for children. (verify not charged for children if selected.) Camping location north of downtown Nashville on a ridge at a higher elevation overlooking Nashville. Camp away from noisy highways, convenient to I65 near multiple amenities, grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops . 5 miles from three I65 exits. 14 miles from I24. 18 miles from I40. 18 miles from Nashville downtown riverfront. Uber or Lyft to Nashville available. Check in & out times are flexible. Quiet hours after 10PM. If you're hanging out or arriving after 10PM.... keep it quiet for other guests. Pets permitted under owner supervision. Clean up after pets, and do not allow pets to interfere with other guests. Please be sure all guests know camping rules! Do Not Leave Trash!! Trash policy is carry in / carry out with you for disposal somewhere else. Trash service is not provided as part of camping fees. $50 trash disposal will be requested if trash left on property. Vault toilet works on a septic system and is not pumped. Only place toilet paper in toilet. Wipes, feminine products, excess tp should be placed in trash can outside vault toilet (only trash exception). Do not burn noncombustible items. materials or cigarettes in fire pits or leave trash in firepits. Only firewood or ashes should remain in firepit. Do not use knives, hatches, axes, saws on live trees. This will be considered damaging to property.

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Western Valley View

3 sites · RVs5 acres · Lebanon, TN

Learn more about this land:Our property sits along a ridge with a westerly view creating amazing sunsets. Short drive to historic Gallatin square, Old hickory lake / marina. Downtown Nashville 40 min drive.Please contact me before booking. Night time arrivals are discouraged, road / drive are curvy and hilly.Site 1 - top of hill near garage 30amp and waterSite 2 - rear of property no hookupsSite 3 - Rear of property 50amp and waterAll site are level and concrete

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Chatty Heifer Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Dixon Springs, TN

The family we bought the farm from owned and farmed it since 1900. They built a cabin then and built a house around the cabin in 1920. We bought it in 2018 and have been renovating it to build a retreat center for first responders and others who serve unselfishly. To that end, we've cut hiking trails and campsites as well as filling the farm with livestock to help people slow down and de-stress. We're located in the beautiful green hills about an hour east of Nashville, Tennessee. Learn more about this land:Drift off to sleep with the sounds of a year-round creek just outside your campsite. Wake up to a beautiful meadow surrounded by green hills in rural Tennessee. Campsites are located on a 120 year old farm under restoration, which is family owned and operated. Get some time away. You'll have privacy as you explore the farm: wade the creek, sway on the tire swing, visit the farm animals (goats, cows, pigs, and chickens), pick wild berries, and sample farm fresh produce and eggs when available. Hiking trails are also available on the farm through tranquil woods.Property is easily accessible from Nashville. In addition, day trips are possible to several lakes, rivers, waterfalls, historic sites, civil war battlefields, state parks, and national wildlife areas.

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Twisted River

2 sites · Tents120 acres · Scottsville, KY

A recent addition to our already spacious and secluded bed and breakfast. A tremendous wooded area with trails, woods, water and an awesome camping/fire pit area! If you enjoy watching the stars after a delicious, over the campfire cooked meal, you'll love the sights, sounds and smells of backwoods Kentucky. The land is bordered by a winding, twisting river that is ample enough for bathing, boating and/or fishing that seems to go on for days. Idea for overnight stays, weekend getaways or family or group gatherings.Learn more about this land:A long flowing log trail that travels through gorgeous woods and time then temporarily halts at the centerpiece campsite for fire, food and laughs. Space around a stone framed fire pit for up to 5 tents to enjoy peace or family at the same time. Off you continue along a groomed 4 wheel trail that guides you past our deer plot, beaver workings, stretches of wild low lands and a refreshing creek for swimming, fishing, boating, you name it! The main camp site is about a :15 minute hike off the main road but close enough to receive support if required.

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The Bee Happy Campground

11 sites · RVs15 acres · Bee Spring, KY

🇺🇲 JULY 2025 🇺🇲 🎆Fireworks Saturday July 5th🎆 Small, private campground. 12 RV sites. Located on Jock Rd on a hill in Bee Spring, KY with acres of open space just minutes from Moutardier and Nolin Lake/Dam. 4 sites offer full hook up. These sites are rented monthly but if not occupied are available for nightly rental at $40 a night. Contact me directly (text is best) to book. (270) 799-4648 8 sites have water and electric (no sewer hookup at site). Dump station on property. All sites offer electric 30/50 amp; 110v, gravel sites, picnic table, and fire pit with food grate. Contact me directly at (270) 799-4648 for weekly, monthly, yearly rates/reservations. Text is best. Dump station Playground (swings, slide, climbing dome) No bathhouse. Port A Pot on site. Nearby: Moutardier, Nolin Lake/Dam, Wax, Blue Holler, Leitchfield , Brownsville. Less than 30 miles: Mammoth Cave National Park, Bowling Green, Elizabethtown.

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Cedar trees and soft ground

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Elmwood, TN

Learn more about this land: We have deer come in daily, 400 yard walk to Cordell Hull Lake. Great swimming. 1 mile to boat launch. Corp land next door for public hunting. Cleaning station available. Hiking on the Army Corp s land adjacent to our property is beautiful. get lost in nature and have fun doing it. Kayaking and fishing all you want.

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Mollys Ridge Glamping and Camping

1 site · Lodging36 acres · Horse Cave, KY

Experience the beauty of nature and the excitement of a true outdoors escape at Mollys Ridge, an off-the-grid adventure featuring Glamping and Camping rentals located directly over Mammoth Cave in the largest growing Amish community in Kentucky. This amazing outdoor rental experience is the perfect place to be surrounded by lush green woods and incredible wildlife. At Mollys Ridge not only can you explore 36 acres of outdoor trails and a immersive off grid experience, but glamp it up daydreaming under clear starlit skies against beautiful sunsets. We're constantly working on Molly's Ridge adding more capacityto share this slice of Heaven with more of our Member guests creating custom experiences around adventures tailored just for you and make everlasting memories like nowhere else in Kentucky! So come enjoy breathtaking views from your luxury outdoor Glamping tent, camping pad or off grid rental at Mollys Ridge surrounded by nature at its most magnificent; offering endless opportunities to create unforgettable moments you will cherish for a lifetime!

Camping in Barren River Lake State Resort Park guide

Overview

About

Kentucky, you have never looked better. Sprawled out just southeast from Bowling Green, this lush, and actually green, countryside embraces Barren River Lake, a 10,000-acre batch of pristine water ready for all sorts of kayaking, jet-skiing, and fishing. And speaking of green, did we mention the perfectly trimmed 18-hole golf course, or the grassy well-kept campsites and the nature trails overflowing with ferns? Yeah, it’s sounding better every second, isn’t it? Even if you want to get your competitive spirit goin’, they’ve got tennis, volleyball, basketball and shuffleboard, playgrounds for the kids and a fitness room for pumping iron. For a short trip off-books, drive up to Mammoth Cave National Park, where you can see the longest cave system in the world. If you make it to Barren River Lake in June, you’ll stumble into the Glasgow Highland Games, a huge festival celebrating all things Scottish! With thousands of people flocking here every year, you’ll see why this Kentucky gem is a keeper.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Barren River Lake State Resort Park is during the spring and fall, when mild temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Summer brings warmth and a full bloom of park life, but also crowds. Winters can be chilly, offering a peaceful solitude for those who brave the cooler weather.

Know before you go

Check weather conditions before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, to plan your activities accordingly.
Accessibility options are available; contact the Frankfort Office at (502) 564-2172 for more information.
Remember to review the photo & drone policy if you plan to capture the park's beauty.
For any general inquiries or to learn more about the park, the Kentucky Tourism official site is a valuable resource.

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