Mountainous and dog-friendly camping in Kentucky
Combine camping with rock climbing, horseback riding, and epic views in the Bluegrass State.
95% (2104 reviews)
- Kentucky
95% (2104 reviews)
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Star Hosts in Kentucky
12 top mountainous and dog-friendly campgrounds in Kentucky
99%
(526)
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!
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$20
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Possum Ridge Ranch
13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents375 acres · West Liberty, KY
Our remote 375 acres part farm and part natural woodland nestled up to Daniel Boone Forest is ideal for hikers and nature lovers. There are several hiking trails onsite and plenty of woods to explore. ATVs or side by sides are welcome to be used on the main gravel roads and some designated areas of our property. There is plenty of wildlife around but no hunting is allowed. Our designated tent sites do have firepits and picnic tables. Our trek in sites do not have those options. Pets are welcome for $10 per pet/per booking and they do need to be leashed/under control at all times. This is an extra so please be sure to add that if you plan to bring your pet. Please pick up after them.
We are a short driving distance from West Liberty, Cave Run Lake, Grayson Lake, Carter Caves, Morehead, Natural Bridge and Red River Gorge.
We are approximately 20 minutes from the nearest store so you'll want to come prepared. We are located in West Liberty (Morgan County). There is a centrally located bathhouse with toilet, shower and sink and a hose for potable water. We have firewood for sale for $15 per bundle and is an extra option when booking(use what you need during your stay and it is located at the tent sites), you can bring your own and you are welcome to gather from the surrounding area but please do not cut down any living trees/limbs.
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$18
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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.
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$12
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95%
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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!
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$25
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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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$15
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Camp Middle Fork
4 sites · Tents180 acres · Irvine, KY
Learn more about this land:
Come stay at Middle Fork Camp: two acres of grass and eleven acres of wooded hillside overlooking a valley meadow in the Daniel Boone National Forest region. Just forty minutes from the Red River Gorge and past homesite of pioneer settlers, the property features an outdoor kitchen, potable spring water, an outdoor shower, WiFi, and 110V and RV-type electric outlets. There is a yoga deck, picnic table, and wood benches with stone ring fireplaces for your use. Help yourself to vegetables from the veggie patch in season!
There are ample hiking and trail running opportunities from the site, starting right behind the (private) A-frame cabin, up and over the limestone cliffs or out the gravel road. I have established hiking/running trail loops to scenic points ranging from 1 - 15 miles in length and will be happy to provide detailed information, including GPS tracks upon request. Enjoy!
Note: Camp Middle Fork is a true nature area: in season there are ticks, you may see a snake, and common to this region, there is poison ivy in the woods. If you are sensitive, dress accordingly.
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$30
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98%
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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.
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$50
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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!
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$35
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Lost On Purpose
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents125 acres · KY
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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$25
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Teamwork D.’s Land
4 sites · Tents150 acres · Somerset, KY
We saw this land and immediately thought this is our Eden and now we want to share it with you.
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$20
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Beardsnest
5 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Cave City, KY
This new-in-formation ecological art project is currently recruiting visitors to backcountry camp in beautiful fields, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 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.
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Big Laurel Ranch
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Blaine, KY
Big Laurel is a working cattle farm on land that has been in our family for 4 generations. The farm consists of 370 acres of bottomland pasture along the creek and quiet woodlands where you can explore jagged rock cliffs and beautiful vistas. The woodlands are undergoing transformation as we continue an ongoing forest rehabilitation project to return our land to its natural
state as a deciduous hardwood forest. Spotted on the farm is an amazing abundance of wildlife including wild turkeys, white tailed deer, pileated woodpeckers, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, bear, and red tailed hawks.
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$12
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Dog-friendly getaways
Under $50
Mountainous and dog-friendly 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.
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