Camping in Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

97% (196 reviews)

Find magic below ground—and above—at Mammoth Cave National Park.  

Top camping in Mammoth Cave National park, KY

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
97% (196 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Mammoth Cave National Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Mammoth Cave National Park

Barren River Magic

99%
(208)
83 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · 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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from 
$25
 / night

Beardsnest

100%
(137)
5 sites · RVs, Tents · Cave City, KY
This ecological art project is currently recruiting visitors to 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. This current phase is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie contrasted with the rocky and steep slopes of the mature forest. Most likely a good fit for self-sufficient types that like campsites with generous spacing, 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. All sites except Spicebush have a filtered water output. Spicebush campers will have water access next to parking. 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 park land and water. Note that we offer kayak trips that can be 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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from 
$25
 / night

Bear Wallow - KY Caves

100%
(2)
2 sites · Lodging · Cave City, KY
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable rural escape. Perfect for 4 people (maybe a 5th person). Close to all areas Caves, Parks, Lakes, Zoos, Museums & other attractions. Magnificent sunrises, sunsets, star-gazing, wildlife & sounds of nature. Relax and unwind from busy city life, the perfect landing spot for day trips in all directions. Stay for a while to explore local adventures or stay overnight toward your final destination. Two properties are on site, including The Bear Wallow Bungalow and The Bear Wallow Farmhouse. The spaces Farmhouse Tiny Home is set up for 4 people. Microwave, mini fridge, toaster, (no stove or cooktop). Covered carport with charcoal grill. Bungalow Tiny Home is set up for 3 people. Microwave, mini fridge, toaster (no stove or cooktop). Covered carport with charcoal grill **Both properties may access the guest grill area, Firepit, and yard. ***Each property has separate driveways and parking areas. Dedicated workspace for remote work with fast internet available on both sites. Come sit in the BIG Bear Wallow Chair! Great focal point for your pictures. Surrounded by farmland, crops, and farm animals (cattle, horses, donkeys, mules) in neighboring fields. You may see deer, and wild turkeys, hear a coyote, spot a bear or bobcat. We do not have any pets. Occasionally, a neighboring cat or dog may wander by. We are not responsible for the actions of any animals that may wander onto the property. Guest access The yard has a fence around 3 sides. Do not go beyond the fenced area as farm crops are growing. Owners have a private fenced-in back yard separate from the common areas. Other things to note: We do not allow pets, parties, illegal activities, or fireworks. Please request the use of the Fire Pit as it depends on wind conditions with crops growing in the fields. We have a charcoal grill available for guest use. You must bring your own charcoal, lighting fluid, and matches. Please let us know if you use the grill so we can clean it out after the charcoal cools. * For the safety and protection of all our guests, we have completely cleaned and permanently sanitized the entire bungalow with LastGerm 2-Step products. This is a non-chemical permanent application providing a mechanical process to CONTINUOUSLY KILL Germs, Bacteria, Viruses, (including Coronavirus), staph, MRSA, Molds, and Mildew. ** We do have a storm shelter on the property which may be utilized by guests if needed.
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$125
 / night

Twisted River

98%
(50)
2 sites · Tents · 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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from 
$20
 / night

On the back of the farm

98%
(156)
2 sites · Tents · Glasgow, KY
This farm has been in my family for 3 generations, the Road is named after my great grandparents. Sitting right on Barren River Lake we are at the end of a dead end chip sealed road. Come join us for a few nights and share in the little piece of suclusion that we call home. We look forward to seeing you. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the back of our 60 acre farm and stay completely secluded from people.  You will drive 2 miles down a chip sealed road and then almost a mile down a dirt road past where the public road ends.  Stay as connected or as disconnected as you want.  Our farm offers the perfect escape from the day to day race of life.  If you want to get away come spend a few days with us!!!  We only allow booking of one camp site at time to ensure your privacy.  Upon arrival there are 2 sites to pick from(see map in photos section).  Camp firewood available for purchase at the barn on your way in. Signs are in place to take you to camp sites from the address that you will receive upon booking.  Can't wait for you to come spend a couple nights with us! We encourage our guests to check out the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife page and the Barren River Lake Corp of Engineers page to know the local boating and fishing rules for Barren River lake during your visit
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from 
$25
 / night

Dragonfly Ranch camping with horses

96%
(130)
4 sites · RVs, Tents · Cub Run, KY
Learn more about this land: This is a horse ranch so you can sleep in the company of horses or in the woods with them in the distance ( check if available/storm damage).We have rolling hills, beautiful views from the hill tops, valley with creeks and a waterfall when not in dry or draught and an abundance of wildlife. Also we're located 5-10 minutes from mammoth cave park border, hike, bike and horse trails, river, lake, blue holler atv park and so much more. If you are sensitive to animal noises you may bring earplugs. There isn't a bathroom/ shower house yet so we ask that you bring a port-a-pot of some sort. We're constantly making upgrades to the Ranch so we hope you enjoy your stay. Please refrain from feeding the horses or dogs because it creates a bad habit and folks that don't know how sensitive a horses gut is can possibly kill them. Respect privacy of others and pack out all that you pack in. Shut any gates you come through.please understand that my horses are of all ages and that includes young ones and babies and seniors as well. The young ones like to be nosey and are still learning what they are allowed to do and what not to do. They are naturally curious and love attention. If they think you have snacks , they can act like a pack of kindergarteners with the promise of cupcakes...we don't want that but because some campers think they are the exception and gave them snacks, it is something we have to monitor more closely. Remember they are animals and they will get into anything if it's left unattended. Please be a responsible camper and ensure we all stay safe and enjoy the experience.We have a section for folks to park in if they do not want to be so close to the horses as well. If you don't like horses or dogs please consider alternative camp site. Limited pet allowance...check before booking please. Also, we've had issues with the site and it offering horse time, ride, Q&A etc. for 5$. We've taken steps to fix this. But if you would like something like that it would be through the Ranch directly and as our time allows. Thank you for taking the time to read everything as well.
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from 
$30
 / night

Hammock Haven

100%
(15)
11 sites · RVs, Tents · KY
Primitive. Fire pit, flat area in wooded area. Lots of trails. Way out in the middle of no where! There is portable potable and drinkable water only! No electric, no hookups, no sewer- unless you book through our other links. We do have hook up sites as well. There’s plenty of recreational things to do here! Disc golf, corn hole, hiking, foraging, flying, fishing, swimming, and star gazing. All we ask is that you leave the site as you find it. Pick up everything you bring in with you. Pack out what you brought. Please be mindful of wildlife. Especially if you have a pet. There are coyotes, wild cats, bear, raccoons, turkey, deer, owls... so you need to be alert. Do not damage our trees!!! Do not throw knives, axes into them. Do not cut or damage any of the trees. If it is down on the ground, feel free to use it in the fire pit. Do not burn anything accept wood in our fire pits. No glass or metal in the fire. Please let us know when you plan to arrive: ETA, and when you have left the property. The driveway is gated and needs to remain closed after you enter/exit each time.
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from 
$26
 / night

Pine horse farm

100%
(10)
3 sites · RVs, Tents · Hodgenville, KY
A working horse farm with some wooded areas and lots of spots to pitch a tent or hammock. We have a friendly dog, 2 mini highland cows and currently 3 horses! We are on 20 acres. We are constantly improving our land and are expanding our horse boarding as we do so. Close to Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace , Mcdougal Lake and the main square in Hodgenville which has cute little restaurants and places to walk During summer there are lots of wild blackberries to pick on the perimeter of the pasture (this is usually June-July only). We are bordered on woods so camping can be done in the trees as well or in our nice open area right as soon as you come up the drive. Outside our barn/house we have water and electric outlets as needed. In the open area or the woods there are several trees that can be used for a hammock as well. We do have a large fire pit and a ton of wood fires can be started as long as we are not under a burn ban if we are having a dry summer or fall. If you're on the bike trail, come inside and take a shower in our simple country home. We will have amenities for you and every day someone will be home from 9am-noon, and 6pm-9pm with more hours open on the weekend. If you let us know we can work around what time you will be arriving.
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from 
$25
 / night

Kozy Haven Cabins

100%
(8)
6 sites · Lodging · Columbia, KY
Welcome to our small family-owned business, where our love for Kentucky, adventure, family time, Bigfoot and serving others is at the heart of everything we do. Embark on a journey to Columbia, Kentucky, where our charming log cabins and homes beckon families seeking refuge in nature's embrace. Located between Green River Lake State Park and Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, these cozy retreats offer the perfect setting for cherished moments together. Spend your days exploring vast hunting grounds teeming with game, casting lines into tranquil fishing spots, and immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. As the sun sets, gather around crackling campfires, sharing stories and laughter under the starlit sky. Whether seeking thrilling adventures or quiet relaxation, these cabins in Columbia provide an idyllic escape for families yearning to reconnect and create timeless memories in nature's sanctuary.
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from 
$79
 / night

The Bee Happy Campground

100%
(36)
11 sites · RVs · Bee Spring, KY
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. Pets are welcome (must be kept on leash and you MUST clean up their waste) Dump station Playground (swings, slide, climbing dome) No bathhouse at the moment. 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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from 
$33
 / night

Other options near Mammoth Cave National Park

Camping in Mammoth Cave National Park, KY guide

Overview

About

Welcome to a national park where most of the beauty is found underground. Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave is the world’s largest cave system, and the national park provides many ways for you to explore it. Take your pick from over 10 organized tours, with varying levels of adventure and accessibility. Above the ground, the rolling hills of the park provide a scenic backdrop for horseback riding, biking, and hiking. Two rivers ripple through the terrain, forming the Green and Nolin Rivers Blueway, a prime spot for kayaking and canoeing. The park offers three onsite campgrounds and 13 backcountry tent sites. 

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for RVers: Mammoth Cave Campground has over 100 sites, with RV camping allowed at select sites.
  • Best for a classic tent-camping adventure: The 13 backcountry sites offer primitive campsites, with some only accessible by hiking or on horseback. 
  • Best for waterfront camping: Open riverside camping is allowed on flood plains and on islands while canoeing the park’s waterways.
  • Best for rustic tent camping: Houchin Ferry Campground has 12 primitive tent sites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Campsite reservations are made through Recreation.gov. website on a 6-month rolling basis.
  • Mammoth Cave Campground allows trailers up to 26 feet in length and motorhomes of 38 feet in length at RV sites.
  • Mammoth Cave Campground has restrooms, showers, and a dump station. 
  • Campers will not find electric hookups at any of the Mammoth Springs National Park campgrounds, other than the group sites at Maple Springs Campground.
  • Mammoth Cave Campground accepts reservations from March 1 through November 30.

When to go

Mammoth Cave National Park is a year-round destination, with cave tours offered every day except December 25. During the summer and early fall, reservations may run out, so book early during peak season. Cavern temperatures may be significantly hotter or colder than the outdoor air, which goes below freezing during winter and may top the 90s in the summer. Bring appropriate clothing. Spring and fall are most pleasant for camping.

Know before you go

  • Cave tours may be booked before your arrival. Check the NPS website for tour times, which are posted 1-3 months in advance.
  • Upon arrival, stop by the park visitor center to learn about the cave system’s unique geology. The visitor center also has information about ranger-led programs, hiking trails, and more. 
  • Canoe and kayak rentals are available through many outfitters in the region. 
  • In addition to providing river crossing, the Green River Ferry is a popular launch spot for boating and paddling.
97%
196 Ratings · 130 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

You cannot camp inside Mammoth Cave itself, as it is a protected area and part of the Mammoth Cave National Park. However, there are camping options available within the national park, including the Mammoth Cave Campground, which offers tent and RV sites, and the Maple Springs Group Campground for larger groups. You can find more information about camping options within Mammoth Cave National Park at Hipcamp.

Camping fees at Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities provided. Prices for tent and RV campsites typically range from $20 to $50 per night. For more information on camping options and pricing, you can visit Hipcamp.

Securing a Mammoth Cave National Park campsite reservation is usually a challenge due to the park's popularity. Camping trips typically need to be planned months in advance and even then, available campsites can book up within minutes. The good news is that you have other options for last-minute Mammoth Cave campsite reservations. Try snagging one by setting up a free Hipcamp alert for any Mammoth Cave National Park campground. We'll monitor campground availability, and you'll get instantly notified of any openings that come up for your dates so you can jump on it to reserve the newly open site. Set up an alert.

Most Mammoth Cave National Park campsite reservations open up months in advance. However, it's notoriously difficult to secure a Mammoth Cave National Park reservation even if you plan ahead, as campsites are often booked up within minutes. To increase your chances of snagging a campsite, set up a free Hipcamp alert for any Mammoth Cave campground. We'll monitor campground availability, and you'll get instantly notified of any openings that come up for your dates so you can jump on it to reserve the newly open site. Set up an alert.

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