Camping in Kentucky: Best Kentucky Campgrounds 2025

United States
—
Kentucky

96% (6044 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Kentucky

Star Hosts in Kentucky

Top camping destinations

Mammoth Cave National Park

722 campgrounds

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

498 campgrounds

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

Daniel Boone National Forest

1186 campgrounds

Available this weekend

99%

(206)

The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · 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!

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 2024, camping here provides a glimpse into a 3 year-old successional prairie, 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 you 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 (~400 seedlings so far and 75 planned for 2024), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! p.s. Bundles of dried and split firewood are available onsite, usually a mix of red cedar and oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle. We also share kayaks now on a suggested donation basis (45/), providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the national park.

95%

(671)

Rockcastle Riverside

50 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · 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!

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · 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. Guests love staying here "We stayed in Birdsong cabin for the Halloween campout weekend. The cabin was ready for us upon arrival and very clean. We enjoyed the privacy of our covered porch and fire ring. The bird feeders hanging all around the cabin are wonderful to watch all the birds during the day. The community fire ring is close enough to enjoy with other campers, but not to close that we could hear anyone in our cabin. Amber and Michael checked on our needs many times during our stay. They hosted a chili cook-off that we greatly enjoyed and passed out candy to all the kids. Overall a great time and experience. We will stay here again."

95%

(953)

The Slab (by the Barren)

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

Welcome to Heaven on Earth for those that love the Great Outdoors!! If you cant find something to do here then you obviously don't want to do anything and thats ok we have ya covered there too!! We will be hosting some special events in 2024 that we would like to make you aware of first thing so you can plan your visit accordingly!! Labor Day Weekend!!!! The last weekend of the year for Lazy River Tubing and the Water Slide!!! Tanking, Kayaking, Camping, and the Trails will remain open Year Round. We will be hosting 2 concerts in the barn for yall Labor Day Weekend!! Tickets for the ALL of the Concerts are $15 a person ages 10 and up and are REQUIRED for all campers that are on the farm on Friday or Saturday. Friday Aug 30th Wes Shipp and his whole band will be performing from 7-11 AND Saturday Aug 31st Bugtussle Blues will be performing from 7-11. Oct 11 & 12 is our Smoke the Slab BBQ cookoff and off road Olympics weekends. Live music all weekend plus games and all kinds of activities for the whole family. Tickets are $20 for ages 10 and up for the whole weekend!! Coolers are fine at your campsites and while on the water but they are NOT allowed in your vehicles or anywhere around the barn. We will be licensed to sell malt beverages that weekend so we will have all of your adult beverage needs covered. Parking for these events will be across the road in the field, there will be no parking around the barn. October 11 & 12!!! Our 1st Annual Smoke the Slab Backyard BBQ Festival!!! Tickets for this event are $20 per person ages 10 and Up for the WHOLE WEEKEND!! Everyone is welcome to enter any of the contests or just come spend the day enjoying all of the activities. Contact Carrie at 812-653-0102 for more info if you would like to enter the BBQ contest or set up to be a vendor Friday Oct 11th. We will have vendors set up selling their wares, food trucks, bounce houses, face painters, a sauce and chili cook off AND a concert by Ryan Daniel and his band from 7 till 11 or until we decide to let him off the stage!!! Saturday Oct 12th all of the fun stuff will still be going on along with the BBQ contest AND..... our annual Shop with a Cop tractor parade thru the country will take off from the barn at 10 am. We have plenty of wagons for you and your friends and family to ride on and only ask for a donation which we will gladly pass on to Macon and Monroe county Shop with a Cop programs for kids Christmas presents. This Parade is NOT limited to only tractors so bring your SXS, 4 wheelers, dirt bikes, or even just your car or truck and join in on the fun. At 1 pm the Tractor Olympics will start!!! You're welcome to join in or just watch some friendly competition for a great cause. Cost for this is $10 per event with 100% being donated to the Shop with a Cop programs. We will have Trophies for the Winners!! Also from 1-5 pm Bugtussle Blues will take the stage in the barn followed by No Deposit Band from 7-11. This event will have the same rules for coolers, alcohol and parking as the Labor Day event. Tanking, kayaking, camping and the trails will remain OPEN year round!! Now that all of that is out of the way... Let me introduce you to our little hidden gem in scenic Monroe county Kentucky. The Slab by the Barren campground is an outdoor recreation area like no other!!! We are the perfect place for all of your family fun in the sun!!! We have 75 very large shaded primitive sites spread out all over our 500 acre farm with nice gravel roads to most of the campsites. We do NOT have any hookups but can accommodate RV's on most sites and you are welcome to run a quiet generator. ( We will be setting up at least 3 sites this winter with hook ups for Rvs. Please follow us here or on facebook for updates on those sites) Sites 1 - 40 are located on the banks of Salt Lick creek and Barren River with direct water access. The gravel bars are open for all campers to enjoy. Camping areas A, B, and C are spread out across different sections of the farm. Even though they aren't directly on the water you are still welcome to go down to the creek at any site and swim and fish and just enjoy the water. If you need any help in choosing the perfect site for your stay feel free to message me or call the office at (812)653-0102 and I will help in anyway I can. On to our amenities!!!! THE BARN!! Is our converted milk barn where Kent and his mother Linda used to milk cows. The tank room is now our office for check in and camp store that we try to keep stocked with the best ice cream and anything else you might have forgotten at home. The old milk parlor where they actually milked the cows has been converted into 4 separate shower houses that are open 24/7. The Holding barn is currently undergoing some major changes this winter. It was such a large room that we have decided, in order to maximize its space, to split the barn in half and make 2 separate areas out of it. The front half by the showers will remain the kids and family play area, it will still have the pool and air hockey tables, family friendly games, tables and chairs. We will be adding more games to this area this winter and adding some exciting outdoor activities for the whole family for this summer. The other half of the barn is currently becoming the Jenkins Joint at The Slab. The Joint will be our full service bar where those 21 and older can enjoy a cold beverage, a game of pool, live music, karaoke, or just hang out. We will have a food truck set up every Friday thru Sunday until we get our kitchen completed and can serve our own food. The food truck and the kitchen will be available for anyone that would like to order food, especially those that check in late and don't feel like cooking their first night. KAYAKING!!! Take a relaxing paddle down the river in your kayak or ours. We have multiple trips 1, 2, 3, 6, and 10 miles and offer a shuttle service, and kayak rentals for those that don't have their own. LAZY RIVER TUBING!!!! Go with the flow in your tube or ours and float your cares away on our 2 mile float down Barren River. Float as many times as you would like per day, stop at the rope swing, or hang out at your campsite and then take off again. TANKING!!! Yes you read that right we now offer Tanking!! I'm sure you have never heard of it but let me tell you, as one group of campers exclaimed... "It is the most genius, redneck, fun thing we have ever done". Depending on the size of your group we will either put you in a 6ft or 8ft round metal cattle water tank and float you 2 miles down the river in it!! We have designed them for the maximum amount of fun and relaxation you can have on the water without getting wet... unless you want to. We have installed benches in them so all you need to bring is your cooler and friends and come spend the day on the river with new unique experience. FISHING!! Multiple fishing holes where you can catch stripe, small mouth, rock bass, Kentucky bass, channel cats, flat heads, and walleye on a regular basis. HIKING We have trails all over the farm from the scenic views on top of the bluffs to the quiet spring fed slate rock holler there is a trail for everyone to enjoy while you explore the farm. WATER SLIDE!!!! On the upper side of the Slab bridge is a 75 ft long water slide into one of our many swimming holes. It is steep and fast and you are sure to make a splash!!! SLIP N SLAB 600!!!! New at the end of 2023... is my Greatest Creation!! The Slip N Slab 600. What is it you might ask.... well.... It is the LONGEST Slip N Slide in ALL of Kentucky!! Come take a ride down our 600 Ft long Slip N Slide!! It starts up at the top of the hill by the office and you slide down the natural hollar and end in the pond just below the amphitheater. It really is Fun for the WHOLE Family!! We have had people as young a 2 and as old as 73 slide down it and each and every one of them came back up to the top with a smile on their face and was ready to do it again!! NOW ON TO THE RULES!!!! NO OUTSIDE FIRE WOOD!!! We sell large bundles for $10 at the camp store. We DO NOT allow ANY outside fire wood to be brought onto the farm!! DO NOT CUT DOWN ANY TREES ON THE FARM NO MATTER HOW SMALL!!! CAMPSITES WILL BE CHECKED AFTER YOUR STAY. IF WE FIND ANY TREES CUT DOWN ON YOUR SITE YOU WILL BE HELD RESPONSIBLE AND WILL BE CHARGED 7 TIMES THE MATURE VALUE OF THE DAMAGED TREE. BOOKING A CAMPSITE AT THE SLAB BY THE BARREN THRU THIS SITE MEANS THAT YOU AGREE TO THESE TERMS. We hate to have to do this but we have had trees chopped down for no reason. There is firewood available at the camp store and you are welcome to burn anything laying on the ground, trim low hanging branches, or pull stuff out of our brush piles. just don't cut down any trees. NO GLASS BOTTLES ARE ALLOWED ON THE FARM!! If we see them we will confiscate and dispose of them!! We are a WATER park and people run around barefoot. The last thing we need is broken glass all over the farm and people cutting their feet. So leave the GLASS AT HOME!! DIRT BIKES AND ATVS ARE NOW ALLOWED ON THE FARM!! Rider be respectful of our campers and ONLY ride on the designated trails!! There are idle only areas around Pickett Bottom cabin and ALL Campsites. If you are caught riding with throttle down the gravel roads in the campground or thru campsites you will be given ONE WARNING!! THE SECOND TIME it happens YOUR VEHICLE WILL BE IMPOUNDED for the remainder of your stay and you will receive A LIFETIME RIDING BAN FROM OUR CAMPGROUND. Be respectful and courteous and we will all have a great time!! We are trying to be inclusive to new activities while still staying the quiet peaceful slice of heaven that everyone has come to love. Please bear with us while we grow and try to work with everyone to make the Slab a place that everyone can enjoy. Thank you for your interest in our campground and we look forward to meeting you this 2024 camping season. God Bless!!

12 top campgrounds in Kentucky

99%

(206)

The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · 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!

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · 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. Guests love staying here "We stayed in Birdsong cabin for the Halloween campout weekend. The cabin was ready for us upon arrival and very clean. We enjoyed the privacy of our covered porch and fire ring. The bird feeders hanging all around the cabin are wonderful to watch all the birds during the day. The community fire ring is close enough to enjoy with other campers, but not to close that we could hear anyone in our cabin. Amber and Michael checked on our needs many times during our stay. They hosted a chili cook-off that we greatly enjoyed and passed out candy to all the kids. Overall a great time and experience. We will stay here again."

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 2024, camping here provides a glimpse into a 3 year-old successional prairie, 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 you 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 (~400 seedlings so far and 75 planned for 2024), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! p.s. Bundles of dried and split firewood are available onsite, usually a mix of red cedar and oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle. We also share kayaks now on a suggested donation basis (45/), providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the national park.

Serenity Camp

26 sites · RVs, Tents175 acres · 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.

Farm and Forest

16 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Lexington, KY

This land has previously been a tobacco farm, a hay farm, and is now home to a few beef cattle. We have blazed trails through the woods for hiking, created campsites with fire rings, farmed hay, and grown various vegetables for self-consumption. We love the proximity of the farm to town, yet the seclusion we feel when we are out there.

99%

(106)

Bar on the Mountain

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · 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.

Rockcastle Riverside

50 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · 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!

96%

(56)

Camp Escape

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Louisville, KY

15 acres with a barn and creek. Our property also boarders the Jefferson County Forestry and is close to Tom Wallace Park. This 5 acres is a corner lot next to railroad tracks so there are two roads on two sides. This is a very rural type area yet still in the city so you will hear and see a combination of city/country things. We are very close to Fort Knox and Knob Creek gun range. You will most likely encounter wildlife, hear gunfire, hear cars and the train go by, you will probably see and hear us and the neighbors on tractors and trucks. This is a working farm among other farming type residents. This is a space for someone to camp with their personal camping equipment. There is no water, no shower, no electric or anything else besides a fire pit. You need to bring your own supplies. We border the Jefferson County Forestry with an entrance about 1 mile away. We are about 30 mins away from downtown, but just 5 mins from a Kroger, Walmart, and a dozen different restaurants. We are also about 15 mins from Fort Knox. There is a shared porta potty onsite.

97%

(699)

Hones Pointe

22 sites · RVs, Tents47 acres · Pendleton, KY

Hones Pointe was established in 1988. It was built by four insurance agents to elude our sales managers in a unique natural setting. Over the years, we have planted many different varieties of trees and perennials to observe. Also evidence exists of this area being an Indian camp long ago as suggested by arrowheads and an old handmade rock wall. Primitive camping where you can pick your own scenic spot. We will furnish picnic table, fire ring, garbage can, and charcoal grill during your campout.Welcome!

96%

(82)

Boone Valley Campground

50 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · 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. 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.

100%

(57)

A Notch Above-RV Riverside Campsite

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Patriot, IN

If you enjoy camping right on the banks of a major river (Ohio), this may be the place for you! Relax on the riverside with a campfire and one of the best river views on the entire Ohio River! You can even throw in a fishing line if you want!

The Slab (by the Barren)

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

Welcome to Heaven on Earth for those that love the Great Outdoors!! If you cant find something to do here then you obviously don't want to do anything and thats ok we have ya covered there too!! We will be hosting some special events in 2024 that we would like to make you aware of first thing so you can plan your visit accordingly!! Labor Day Weekend!!!! The last weekend of the year for Lazy River Tubing and the Water Slide!!! Tanking, Kayaking, Camping, and the Trails will remain open Year Round. We will be hosting 2 concerts in the barn for yall Labor Day Weekend!! Tickets for the ALL of the Concerts are $15 a person ages 10 and up and are REQUIRED for all campers that are on the farm on Friday or Saturday. Friday Aug 30th Wes Shipp and his whole band will be performing from 7-11 AND Saturday Aug 31st Bugtussle Blues will be performing from 7-11. Oct 11 & 12 is our Smoke the Slab BBQ cookoff and off road Olympics weekends. Live music all weekend plus games and all kinds of activities for the whole family. Tickets are $20 for ages 10 and up for the whole weekend!! Coolers are fine at your campsites and while on the water but they are NOT allowed in your vehicles or anywhere around the barn. We will be licensed to sell malt beverages that weekend so we will have all of your adult beverage needs covered. Parking for these events will be across the road in the field, there will be no parking around the barn. October 11 & 12!!! Our 1st Annual Smoke the Slab Backyard BBQ Festival!!! Tickets for this event are $20 per person ages 10 and Up for the WHOLE WEEKEND!! Everyone is welcome to enter any of the contests or just come spend the day enjoying all of the activities. Contact Carrie at 812-653-0102 for more info if you would like to enter the BBQ contest or set up to be a vendor Friday Oct 11th. We will have vendors set up selling their wares, food trucks, bounce houses, face painters, a sauce and chili cook off AND a concert by Ryan Daniel and his band from 7 till 11 or until we decide to let him off the stage!!! Saturday Oct 12th all of the fun stuff will still be going on along with the BBQ contest AND..... our annual Shop with a Cop tractor parade thru the country will take off from the barn at 10 am. We have plenty of wagons for you and your friends and family to ride on and only ask for a donation which we will gladly pass on to Macon and Monroe county Shop with a Cop programs for kids Christmas presents. This Parade is NOT limited to only tractors so bring your SXS, 4 wheelers, dirt bikes, or even just your car or truck and join in on the fun. At 1 pm the Tractor Olympics will start!!! You're welcome to join in or just watch some friendly competition for a great cause. Cost for this is $10 per event with 100% being donated to the Shop with a Cop programs. We will have Trophies for the Winners!! Also from 1-5 pm Bugtussle Blues will take the stage in the barn followed by No Deposit Band from 7-11. This event will have the same rules for coolers, alcohol and parking as the Labor Day event. Tanking, kayaking, camping and the trails will remain OPEN year round!! Now that all of that is out of the way... Let me introduce you to our little hidden gem in scenic Monroe county Kentucky. The Slab by the Barren campground is an outdoor recreation area like no other!!! We are the perfect place for all of your family fun in the sun!!! We have 75 very large shaded primitive sites spread out all over our 500 acre farm with nice gravel roads to most of the campsites. We do NOT have any hookups but can accommodate RV's on most sites and you are welcome to run a quiet generator. ( We will be setting up at least 3 sites this winter with hook ups for Rvs. Please follow us here or on facebook for updates on those sites) Sites 1 - 40 are located on the banks of Salt Lick creek and Barren River with direct water access. The gravel bars are open for all campers to enjoy. Camping areas A, B, and C are spread out across different sections of the farm. Even though they aren't directly on the water you are still welcome to go down to the creek at any site and swim and fish and just enjoy the water. If you need any help in choosing the perfect site for your stay feel free to message me or call the office at (812)653-0102 and I will help in anyway I can. On to our amenities!!!! THE BARN!! Is our converted milk barn where Kent and his mother Linda used to milk cows. The tank room is now our office for check in and camp store that we try to keep stocked with the best ice cream and anything else you might have forgotten at home. The old milk parlor where they actually milked the cows has been converted into 4 separate shower houses that are open 24/7. The Holding barn is currently undergoing some major changes this winter. It was such a large room that we have decided, in order to maximize its space, to split the barn in half and make 2 separate areas out of it. The front half by the showers will remain the kids and family play area, it will still have the pool and air hockey tables, family friendly games, tables and chairs. We will be adding more games to this area this winter and adding some exciting outdoor activities for the whole family for this summer. The other half of the barn is currently becoming the Jenkins Joint at The Slab. The Joint will be our full service bar where those 21 and older can enjoy a cold beverage, a game of pool, live music, karaoke, or just hang out. We will have a food truck set up every Friday thru Sunday until we get our kitchen completed and can serve our own food. The food truck and the kitchen will be available for anyone that would like to order food, especially those that check in late and don't feel like cooking their first night. KAYAKING!!! Take a relaxing paddle down the river in your kayak or ours. We have multiple trips 1, 2, 3, 6, and 10 miles and offer a shuttle service, and kayak rentals for those that don't have their own. LAZY RIVER TUBING!!!! Go with the flow in your tube or ours and float your cares away on our 2 mile float down Barren River. Float as many times as you would like per day, stop at the rope swing, or hang out at your campsite and then take off again. TANKING!!! Yes you read that right we now offer Tanking!! I'm sure you have never heard of it but let me tell you, as one group of campers exclaimed... "It is the most genius, redneck, fun thing we have ever done". Depending on the size of your group we will either put you in a 6ft or 8ft round metal cattle water tank and float you 2 miles down the river in it!! We have designed them for the maximum amount of fun and relaxation you can have on the water without getting wet... unless you want to. We have installed benches in them so all you need to bring is your cooler and friends and come spend the day on the river with new unique experience. FISHING!! Multiple fishing holes where you can catch stripe, small mouth, rock bass, Kentucky bass, channel cats, flat heads, and walleye on a regular basis. HIKING We have trails all over the farm from the scenic views on top of the bluffs to the quiet spring fed slate rock holler there is a trail for everyone to enjoy while you explore the farm. WATER SLIDE!!!! On the upper side of the Slab bridge is a 75 ft long water slide into one of our many swimming holes. It is steep and fast and you are sure to make a splash!!! SLIP N SLAB 600!!!! New at the end of 2023... is my Greatest Creation!! The Slip N Slab 600. What is it you might ask.... well.... It is the LONGEST Slip N Slide in ALL of Kentucky!! Come take a ride down our 600 Ft long Slip N Slide!! It starts up at the top of the hill by the office and you slide down the natural hollar and end in the pond just below the amphitheater. It really is Fun for the WHOLE Family!! We have had people as young a 2 and as old as 73 slide down it and each and every one of them came back up to the top with a smile on their face and was ready to do it again!! NOW ON TO THE RULES!!!! NO OUTSIDE FIRE WOOD!!! We sell large bundles for $10 at the camp store. We DO NOT allow ANY outside fire wood to be brought onto the farm!! DO NOT CUT DOWN ANY TREES ON THE FARM NO MATTER HOW SMALL!!! CAMPSITES WILL BE CHECKED AFTER YOUR STAY. IF WE FIND ANY TREES CUT DOWN ON YOUR SITE YOU WILL BE HELD RESPONSIBLE AND WILL BE CHARGED 7 TIMES THE MATURE VALUE OF THE DAMAGED TREE. BOOKING A CAMPSITE AT THE SLAB BY THE BARREN THRU THIS SITE MEANS THAT YOU AGREE TO THESE TERMS. We hate to have to do this but we have had trees chopped down for no reason. There is firewood available at the camp store and you are welcome to burn anything laying on the ground, trim low hanging branches, or pull stuff out of our brush piles. just don't cut down any trees. NO GLASS BOTTLES ARE ALLOWED ON THE FARM!! If we see them we will confiscate and dispose of them!! We are a WATER park and people run around barefoot. The last thing we need is broken glass all over the farm and people cutting their feet. So leave the GLASS AT HOME!! DIRT BIKES AND ATVS ARE NOW ALLOWED ON THE FARM!! Rider be respectful of our campers and ONLY ride on the designated trails!! There are idle only areas around Pickett Bottom cabin and ALL Campsites. If you are caught riding with throttle down the gravel roads in the campground or thru campsites you will be given ONE WARNING!! THE SECOND TIME it happens YOUR VEHICLE WILL BE IMPOUNDED for the remainder of your stay and you will receive A LIFETIME RIDING BAN FROM OUR CAMPGROUND. Be respectful and courteous and we will all have a great time!! We are trying to be inclusive to new activities while still staying the quiet peaceful slice of heaven that everyone has come to love. Please bear with us while we grow and try to work with everyone to make the Slab a place that everyone can enjoy. Thank you for your interest in our campground and we look forward to meeting you this 2024 camping season. God Bless!!

Under $50

98%

(198)

Farm and Forest

16 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Lexington, KY

This land has previously been a tobacco farm, a hay farm, and is now home to a few beef cattle. We have blazed trails through the woods for hiking, created campsites with fire rings, farmed hay, and grown various vegetables for self-consumption. We love the proximity of the farm to town, yet the seclusion we feel when we are out there.

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 2024, camping here provides a glimpse into a 3 year-old successional prairie, 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 you 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 (~400 seedlings so far and 75 planned for 2024), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! p.s. Bundles of dried and split firewood are available onsite, usually a mix of red cedar and oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle. We also share kayaks now on a suggested donation basis (45/), providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the national park.

The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · 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!

Serenity Camp

26 sites · RVs, Tents175 acres · 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.

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · 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. Guests love staying here "We stayed in Birdsong cabin for the Halloween campout weekend. The cabin was ready for us upon arrival and very clean. We enjoyed the privacy of our covered porch and fire ring. The bird feeders hanging all around the cabin are wonderful to watch all the birds during the day. The community fire ring is close enough to enjoy with other campers, but not to close that we could hear anyone in our cabin. Amber and Michael checked on our needs many times during our stay. They hosted a chili cook-off that we greatly enjoyed and passed out candy to all the kids. Overall a great time and experience. We will stay here again."

Dog-friendly getaways

98%

(538)

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · 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. Guests love staying here "We stayed in Birdsong cabin for the Halloween campout weekend. The cabin was ready for us upon arrival and very clean. We enjoyed the privacy of our covered porch and fire ring. The bird feeders hanging all around the cabin are wonderful to watch all the birds during the day. The community fire ring is close enough to enjoy with other campers, but not to close that we could hear anyone in our cabin. Amber and Michael checked on our needs many times during our stay. They hosted a chili cook-off that we greatly enjoyed and passed out candy to all the kids. Overall a great time and experience. We will stay here again."

Farm and Forest

16 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Lexington, KY

This land has previously been a tobacco farm, a hay farm, and is now home to a few beef cattle. We have blazed trails through the woods for hiking, created campsites with fire rings, farmed hay, and grown various vegetables for self-consumption. We love the proximity of the farm to town, yet the seclusion we feel when we are out there.

Serenity Camp

26 sites · RVs, Tents175 acres · 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.

The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · 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!

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 2024, camping here provides a glimpse into a 3 year-old successional prairie, 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 you 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 (~400 seedlings so far and 75 planned for 2024), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! p.s. Bundles of dried and split firewood are available onsite, usually a mix of red cedar and oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle. We also share kayaks now on a suggested donation basis (45/), providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the national park.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

97%

(31)

Daniel Boone National Forest

Whitley City, Kentucky

100%

(37)

Mammoth Cave National Park

Park City, Kentucky

100%

(11)

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

Campton, Kentucky

100%

(5)

Carter Caves State Resort Park

Fountain Run, Kentucky

100%

(4)

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park

Albany, Kentucky

100%

(3)

Wilderness Road State Park

Ewing, Virginia

100%

(3)

Kenlake State Resort Park

Dexter, Kentucky

100%

(3)

Lake Barkley State Resort Park

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Kentucky guide

Overview

Kentucky camping adventures are never boring. Whether you want to saddle up and gallop the bluegrass hills, scale the soaring cliffs of the Red River Gorge, or explore the world’s longest cave system, this southern state provides endless ways to get outdoors. Kentucky’s six national parks and 45 State Parks are brimming with woodlands, waterfalls, and waterways where you can hike, bike, paddle, raft, or even play a game of golf. The natural landscapes are at their most ravishing in spring and fall, but camping is a year-round pastime with RV sites, cottages, and rustic cabins to see you through the winter chill.

Where to go

Bluegrass Region

The state capital of Lexington is the gateway to the Bluegrass Region, where Kentucky’s horse racing legacy takes center stage. Once you’ve visited Kentucky Horse Park and followed the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, experience 18th-century life and camp with full hookups at Fort Boonesborough State Park, go kayaking along the Licking River, or camp by the lakeside at Kincaid Lake State Park.

Appalachian Plateau

The misty peaks, sweeping gorges, and natural caves of the Appalachian Mountains blanket Eastern Kentucky. Adventurers will find plenty of fun here, whether rock climbing in the Red River Gorge, riding your ATV through the Black Mountain Off-Road Adventure Area, or hiking, camping, and horseback riding at the many state parks. If we had to pick the highlights, they’d certainly include caving at Carter Caves State Resort Park and admiring the “Niagara of the South” at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.

Central Kentucky

Bourbon distilleries, historic sites, and natural wonders abound in central Kentucky. Once you’ve experienced Kentucky Derby fever in Louisville and enjoyed the urban hiking trails in Elizabethtown, stop by the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. Further south, there’s rustic camping and UNESCO-listed caves to explore at Mammoth Cave National Park and popular campgrounds Green River Lake and Taylorsville Lake state parks. Or why not rent a houseboat and cruise around Lake Cumberland?

West Kentucky

It’s not all about bluegrass music and BBQ in west Kentucky—there’s also some great lakeside camping. There are myriad ways to get on the water at the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, from kayaking and tubing to jet skiing and waterskiing, and you’ll find campgrounds at Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, and Lake Malone State Park. Or, combine camping and Civil War history at Columbus-Belmont State Park.