Discover the best luxury river, stream, or creek campgrounds in Kentucky

United States
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Kentucky

98% (1577 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Kentucky

Under $50

Star Hosts in Kentucky

100%

(20)

Bunker Farm

3 sites · Lodging2 acres · Fairview, KY

Experience the best of luxury and relaxation in this secluded canvas tent at Bunker Farm, nestled within the picturesque creekside of the 7-acre farm in Ryland Heights, Kentucky. Step inside this furnished bell tent to discover a spacious retreat complete with a queen size bed. Marshall Road runs through the bottom third of our property making a secluded area along Decoursey Creek that feels like a you're way out in the woods, yet not far from the city. Our canvas tent is situated under large mature trees, secluded from the road. An open field located on the property along Decoursey Creek, which brings in a variety of flora and fauna. This 12 foot canvas bell tent is sure to take relaxation to the next level. Within this tent, a queen size memory foam mattress, lightweight sheets, extra blankets and paired with two firm and two soft pillows are provided. The door way is a double zip closure. For cooking, a gas burner and a small gas grill, a cast iron skillet along with acacia wood plates and bowls, utensils, and knives are available for use. For fresh coffee in the morning, an enamel Percolator and mugs are provided. An extra large cooler (100 gal) for your cold items is available outside of the tent. Please bring your own camping equipment if needing any items outside of what's listed. For your bathroom needs, we are currently building a bath house. It does have a fully functional toilet and sink using water catchment. The shower is not complete, will be in the coming weeks. Please bring water for drinking and brushing teeth. Toilet paper, hand soap and sanitizer will be provided. In addition to firelight from the campfire, the tent is lit by battery-powered a LED lantern, battery operated candles, decor and a pair of solar lamps. No electric is available at this site currently. One battery operated fan is provided. First load of wood is included with your reservation. $7 per bundle if you need more. We use the honor system for this, please send any extra money through HipCamp if more wood is used. We provide fire starting materials and a lighter, fire extinguisher is located in the trunk within the tent. Parking area is close to the tent, yet not right next to it. A large rolling cart is provided to help with getting belongings to and from the parking area. Please only park and drive on graveled area. Creekside Hideaway is nestled on Decoursey Creek, you will have access to the bottom area of the property along the creek. Rock steps have been put in along the creek for easy access down to the creek. This property is partially wooded, and has an open field as well. We are always pet friendly, but you must maintain control of your pets and you are responsible for them at all times. Decoursey creek is a natural waterway. It is frequented by wildlife and can be contaminated by runoff from local farms. DO NOT drink the water. Make sure to wash your hands after they have been in the water before eating and drinking. Pink tape on trees are to mark the approximate property lines, please remain within the property. The creek is part of the property but please do not go to the far bank, as the creek marks our property line.

Patrick's Point River Camp

70 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents212 acres · Williamsburg, KY

Looking for a quiet peaceful camp on 212 acres in the Appalachians Mountains along side the Upper Cumberland River under a canopy of shade trees? We offer WIFI, hot showers, restrooms, kayaks, shuttle service, hiking trail, horse trail, wildlife stands, electric, water, easy access to the river, 130’ x 100’ covered pavilion, tent camping, cabins, RV sites, and much more. Whether you are looking for a unique swimming hole location, a place to go fishing, kayak access, hiking trails or just a quiet place to enjoy your morning cup of coffee, we promise you will not be disappointed. You may wish to lay in a hammock along the river or under our covered 100 x 130 pavilion. We also have a beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy. In addition to our relaxing atmosphere, this camp will also give you and your loved ones an incredible view to enjoy throughout your stay. Only 15.0mi via KY-90W by vehicle or 14mi by kayak to Cumberland Falls State Park with many hiking trails. One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, Patrick homestead-started soon after the Revolutionary War. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply along this river and these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Appalachian and on the bank of the Upper Cumberland River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!

99%

(193)

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."

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Lost On Purpose

Secluded 2br 1 bath private and quiet, not a neighbor in sight! We have hiking, biking and horse trails galore. Fishing in the pond is permitted with a barbless hook and catch n release! Rock hounders welcome to explore the creek beds, and bring your disc golf or archery bows- we have that too! You will never want to leave!

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HomeGrown HideAways

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Berea, KY

HomeGrown HideAways is a hundred-acre farm, lodging, and event facility in the Appalachian foothills near Berea, Ky. We're just 8 miles from the Berea College Pinnacles hiking trails, 8 miles to Owsley Fork Reservoir, 20 minutes to Anglin Falls, 12 miles to Berea, and 35 minutes to Richmond, Ky. For insurance purposes and the safety of our own livestock and pets, we do not allow guests to bring their pets onto the property. Prepare to UNPLUG as we do not have cell service or wifi (there IS a landline for guests to make phone calls located in the Community Farmhouse). Learn more about this land: HomeGrown HideAways is a privately-owned farm near the end of a curvy dead-end road. We have dogs, cats, chickens, ducks, and all the insects and wildlife you’d expect to find in the Appalachian foothills (please do not let your children chase the birds). We have a wide variety of lodging options scattered throughout our farm including treehouses, yurts, a bunkhouse, vintage campers, and campsites. (Please note, not all sites are available through Hipcamp at this time). All guests from tent to treehouse have access to our Community Farmhoues featuring a fully-stocked gourmet kitchen, restrooms, coin-op laundry, and upstairs multi-purpose room with a library and board games. There is also an outdoor kitchen area with additional cooking space including a grill, microwave, and sink (sink is closed in the winter so the pipes don’t freeze). Next to the Community Building is a massive pavilion with a dozen picnic tables, yard games, and firewood bundles to purchase. BRING CASH! Out on the grounds, we have a small playground, a couple disc golf baskets, communal bonfire area, seasonal bath house with 4 flush toilets and 2 showers. There is a steep and rugged 1.5 mile hiking loop and creeks to explore. CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT: Guests can check in any time after 4pm, but we do recommend arriving before dark. Depending on our cleaning schedule, we may be able to accommodate an earlier arrival time with advance notice. Rentals are unlocked so guests can just follow the instructions sent with the check-in email to find their location and let themselves in. Check-out is at 10am so that we have time to clean the rental before the next guest arrives, but you can stay to explore the farm until 11 (late departure fee of $35 after 11am). Self-contained guests (tents, campers, RVs) may arrive at 3 and leave at 11. If something comes up and you need to leave before your scheduled check-out date, please do us the courtesy of sending a message once you have cell service so that we know not to expect you. UNPLUG AND RECONNECT: HomeGrown HideAways does not have cell service or wifi, but there is a landline in the Community Farmhouse for guests to use. We hope that you will take the opportunity to re-connect with nature, yourself, your family, and other guests. In addition to the shared kitchen space, we also have a pavilion with cornhole set up for rainy days, and a massive bonfire area where we encourage guests to pitch in on firewood to share stories and s’mores. Please note that quiet hours are from 10pm – 7am and sound carries far in the holler. SHARED BATH HOUSE: In addition to year-round outhouses, there is a seasonal BATH HOUSE with 4 flush toilets and 2 solar-heated showers. The bath house is rustic with a concrete floor so we recommend shower shoes or flip flops. Towels and toiletries are not provided, but we do have extra for purchase if you forget yours. COMMUNITY FARMHOUSE (open from 6am - 10pm): The farm has a brand new (2021), centrally-located, solar-powered, fully-stocked, chef-inspired KITCHEN with 4 ovens, 5-burner gas cooktop, microwave, refrigerator with farm-fresh eggs (when available), coffee-maker, toaster, dishes, cutlery, baking sheets, basic cooking supplies (oil, salt, pepper, etc), plus HomeGrown farm goods, s’more kits, and other goodies. BRING CASH for the honor system. Please remember that this space is available for ALL visitors of the farm so guests are expected to clean up after themselves and not to loiter when others are waiting. To prevent over-crowding, we ask that a maximum of TWO people from your group occupy the space at a time and children MUST be accompanied by a guardian at all times. Meals may be eaten at the picnic tables on the porch, under the pavilion, or you can take food back to your site. FOOD SCRAPS MUST BE PUT INTO THE COMPOST BIN – NOT IN THE TRASH. Please do not discard food on the ground as it can make our animals sick and attract unwanted wildlife. THE FARM: We are a farm in the mountains so we have all the good (beautiful views, babbling brook, hiking trails) and the bad (insects, howling coyotes, poison ivy) that nature has to offer so come prepared. We recommend hiking boots, bug spray, and weather-appropriate clothing. Be prepared to encounter INSECTS (mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers), WILDLIFE (deer, turkey, snakes, toads, and dare we mention the bear track we spotted one spring?), WEATHER (hot, cold, rain, snow), TOXIC PLANTS (poison ivy, stinging nettle, wild mushrooms), just to name a few. There is a steep and rugged 1.5-mile hiking loop that takes most folks about an hour (if they can get past the first 10-minute uphill climb). We also have playground swings, disc golf, hula hoops, a croquet set, and a creek full of geodes to hunt. Please do not leave any sticks, rocks, games, or other items in the grass where the mower might run over them. If you would like to take a souvenir rock home, please note that we limit this to ONE PER GUEST. CAMPFIRES: Most sites have their own fire pit except for the primitive camping area. There is also a large communal fire pit near the Community Kitchen. Due to the spread of invasive insects, we ask that you DO NOT BRING FIREWOOD unless it is store-bought/kiln dried. We have bundles for sale here for $5/bundle (bring cash) or you can scavenge dead wood from the forest floor for free. DO NOT “scavenge” wood we have already cut, DO NOT cut down live trees, and DO NOT burn plastic, glass, trash, gas, or anything that isn’t wood or paper. There are plenty of fire-starting materials under the Pavilion next to the bundles. On your way to the farm, you will pass the local fire department. Please make note of the fire danger sign. If the fire danger is high, a campfire may not be advisable – please check for local burn bans. SMOKING: Smoking is not permitted within the vicinity of any building on the farm. Please do not discard cigarette butts in the firepits or on the ground. They must be completely extinguished and can be thrown in the trash. TRASH: In case you missed it before, we do not have trash pick-up on the farm and very much appreciate it if you can take your trash with you when you leave the farm. We do have recycling bins for clean plastic and aluminum cans. Paper and cardboard can be put in the box next to the firewood bundles under the pavilion for others to use for starting fires. We also have a compost bin available for all food scraps, paper napkins, and paper plates. Please do not discard food on the ground as it can make our animals sick and attract unwanted wildlife. MOTORIZED VEHICLES: We do not allow ATVs, 4-wheelers, golf carts, or any non-medical motorized transportation. Bicycles are welcome and encouraged. GENERATORS: We highly discourage the use of generators as they can be quite noisy and produce toxic fumes. Please talk to us in advance if you require one for a specific purpose. ACCIDENTS: If a child or member of your party has an accident involving bodily fluids, please take the time to clean up after them. First aid kits are supplied in most rentals and in the Community Kitchen. If bedding is involved, we have coin-operated laundry facilities in the Community building to begin the washing process. Please notify us of such events. COOLERS & CANDLES: Coolers should be left outside so that the condensation doesn't damage our floors. Candles are not allowed due to too many wax spills. NEARBY: We are just 8 miles from the Berea Pinnacles, 6 miles from Get Outside Ky (they rent canoes, kayaks, SUPs, and e-bikes), 3 miles to Tater Knob Pottery, 20 minutes to Anglin Falls, and a scenic hour from Red River Gorge. Berea is known for its arts and crafts, the historic Berea College, and outdoor recreation. In addition to hiking at the Pinnacles, there are several other trails throughout town and the newly opened Silver Creek Bike Park. NOMS: Our favorite places to eat in Berea are Native Bagel Company, Nightjar, Peg& Awl Public House, Bert's SpeakCheezy, Apollo Pizza, PapaLeno’s, and El Rio Grande. In Richmond, we like Masala Indian, Purdy’s Coffee Co., and Thai Smile. Note: Madison County is DRY, Berea is MOIST, and Richmond is WET so plan your alcohol accordingly. UPDATE: Madison County is now wet and we have our liquor license plus a small selection of LOCAL beer, wine, and canned cocktails. ACTIVITIES: We highly encourage guests to check out the Berea Tourism website for all kinds of classes, workshops, concerts, art demonstrations, guided hikes, and other events. Some of our favorite places are Rebel Rebel Studio & Lounge, the Berea Makerspace, Berea Arts Council, and the Berea College Forestry Outreach Center. Need more info? HomeGrown HideAways has a website, facebook page, and instagram so give us a look!

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Lago Linda Hideaway

48 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents454 acres · Beattyville, KY

Our Cabins, RV sites, and Campground are near Kentucky’s breathtaking Red River Gorge! Situated on a magnificent 410-acre expanse within the enchanting Daniel Boone National Forest, we offer a range of accommodations to suit your preferences. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Eastern Kentucky as you choose from our cozy cabins, comfortable bunk houses, RV sites with electricity and water, or the simplicity of tent camping. For those seeking a back-to-basics experience, we also provide primitive camping options. One of our most notable features is our fully stocked 5-acre lake, inviting you to indulge in fishing or swimming. Embrace the great outdoors in our expansive field, which features well-maintained primitive campsites with fire rings and picnic tables. Our well-appointed bathhouse ensures your comfort and even offers laundry facilities for your convenience. RV enthusiasts will find our sites equipped with 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups, and we provide a convenient dump station within the Campground. If you’re in the mood for adventure, explore our hiking trails or take one of our kayaks out on the water. When hunger strikes, our on-site Café awaits, offering delicious meals to satisfy your cravings. At Lago Linda Hideaway, we strive to provide everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience.

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Wiley's Last Resort

18 sites · Tents90 acres · Whitesburg, KY

Wiley's Last Resort is about a hundred acres on top of Pine Mountain in Letcher County, KY. Jim Webb aka "Wiley Quixote" purchased the property in 1996 and began restoring, developing, and naming all the nooks and crannies that make up this wonderful place.

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Rock Springs Farm and Sanctuary

26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Foster, KY

80 acres of woods and greenspace give you plenty of options to pitch your tent! No tent? No worries, for an additional fee, choose our hillside cabin or 120-year-old farmhouse! Features include hiking, camping; fire ring, and flat greenspace. Night rates vary by day of the week and by season. Pet's are allowed at no additional charge when camping, however, there is an additional $50 fee per pet that will be staying inside the farmhouse. The town of Augusta is less than 5 minutes away, home to an array of small antique shops, art galleries, and restaurants including Augusta Distillery, Baker - Bird Winery, and The Bee Hive Tavern. Enjoy breakfast or Ice Cream at the General Store, grab a pint at the Augusta Pub, and pick up a pie at Carota's Pizza!

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The Harrican RV/Camper

1 site · Lodging200 acres · Somerset, KY

There is a lot of history on 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 here in the heart of the Kentucky Wildlands. Come see for your yourself and be our guest at The Harrican! Only one mile from the wild Rockastle River, the walk is like going back in time to a place where it feels like no one has ever been before. Over 200 acres to roam and that is surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forrest. Hiking, waterfalls and abundant wildlife greet you daily. Complete serenity and privacy. Enjoy accommodations in a 25ft RV featuring a private bedroom with queen bed, linens, bathroom, towels, a pullout sofa and dining area that can be converted to a sleeping area as well. Firepit, charcoal grill, outdoor seating outdoor lighting, water, electric, gas range and fridge as well as heat included. Optional generator to operate A/C, TV and microwave (you supply the gas.) Unplug and unwind at The Harrican!

Pets

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents375 acres · West Liberty, KY

70 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents212 acres · Williamsburg, KY

Looking for a quiet peaceful camp on 212 acres in the Appalachians Mountains along side the Upper Cumberland River under a canopy of shade trees? We offer WIFI, hot showers, restrooms, kayaks, shuttle service, hiking trail, horse trail, wildlife stands, electric, water, easy access to the river, 130’ x 100’ covered pavilion, tent camping, cabins, RV sites, and much more. Whether you are looking for a unique swimming hole location, a place to go fishing, kayak access, hiking trails or just a quiet place to enjoy your morning cup of coffee, we promise you will not be disappointed. You may wish to lay in a hammock along the river or under our covered 100 x 130 pavilion. We also have a beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy. In addition to our relaxing atmosphere, this camp will also give you and your loved ones an incredible view to enjoy throughout your stay. Only 15.0mi via KY-90W by vehicle or 14mi by kayak to Cumberland Falls State Park with many hiking trails. One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, Patrick homestead-started soon after the Revolutionary War. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply along this river and these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Appalachian and on the bank of the Upper Cumberland River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!

Luxury river, stream, or creek 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.