The best camping in Carter Caves State Resort Park, KY

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Top-rated campgrounds

Home Afarm Co-op

96%
(84)
47mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Seaman, OH
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
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from 
$20
 / night

The Viking Longhall

100%
(539)
45mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging · Peebles, OH
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
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from 
$40
 / night

Possum Ridge Ranch

100%
(115)
23mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · West Liberty, KY
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
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from 
$24
 / night

The LAAAAND (just you & 50 acres)

100%
(134)
43mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 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***)
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from 
$59
 / night

Punkin Hollow Resort

92%
(6)
48mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 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.
Pets
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from 
$99
 / night

Bear Pond

98%
(43)
39mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · West Union, OH
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.
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from 
$35
 / night

Shasta Valley

96%
(58)
40mi from Carter Caves State Resort Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Frenchburg, KY
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
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from 
$26
 / night

Other options near Carter Caves State Resort Park

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

  1. You can reserve 129 tent, RV, or equestrian campsites at Carter Caves State Resort Park Campground via the Reserve America website. 
  2. Permits for the Eagles Nest and Johnson Homeplace backcountry campsites can be reserved by contacting the Lewis Caveland Lodge.
  3. 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