The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Central City, Kentucky

River camping near Central City means options—over 700 campsites line the banks and streams in this part of Kentucky, with prices averaging $47 a night and some spots dipping as low as $25. You'll find sites where you can pitch a tent just steps from the water, and most offer toilets, hot showers, and fire rings for late-night stories. Swimming is a given, but don’t miss a chance to ride horseback along muddy river trails or spot deer and herons at sunrise. For a tried-and-tested stay, locals head to Burdoc Farms (11 reviews), Tar Springs 2 (3 reviews), or Happy Hollows Farm (2 reviews)—these sites get top marks for easy river access and room to stretch out. Bring sturdy boots for the banks, pack your swim gear, and you’ll be set for a riverside escape that’s as straightforward as it is refreshing.

99% (40) • 11 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Central City

River camping near Central City means options—over 700 campsites line the banks and streams in this part of Kentucky, with prices averaging $47 a night and some spots dipping as low as $25. You'll find sites where you can pitch a tent just steps from the water, and most offer toilets, hot showers, and fire rings for late-night stories. Swimming is a given, but don’t miss a chance to ride horseback along muddy river trails or spot deer and herons at sunrise. For a tried-and-tested stay, locals head to Burdoc Farms (11 reviews), Tar Springs 2 (3 reviews), or Happy Hollows Farm (2 reviews)—these sites get top marks for easy river access and room to stretch out. Bring sturdy boots for the banks, pack your swim gear, and you’ll be set for a riverside escape that’s as straightforward as it is refreshing.

99% (40) • 11 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Central City

1. Tar Springs 2

98%

(32)

44mi from Central City · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Historic property once a health resort in the 1840's, lodging rooms available, men's and women's restrooms and showers, lockers, kitchenette, optional breakfast, private 16 acre lake, fishing and boats available, dock, natural springs and rock formations enclose the valley, hiking, camping sites and primitive camping available. Original property was considered for a training camp facility for Mohammed Ali. For your safety, no arrivals after dark.

2. Burdoc Farms

96%

(14)

29mi from Central City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

LOCATED IN THE NATURAL SCENERY OF WESTERN KENTUCKY JUST NORTH OF NASHVILLE, TN. Burdoc Farms is nestled in the idyllic natural green hills. Burdoc Farms offers a true and relaxed experience for your once in a lifetime event.With over 650 acres of open fields and forest, Burdoc Farms has been in the Shepherd family for over 80 years. The farm was once a tobacco and cattle farm, producing national champion Shorthorn Beef Cattle in the 60’s. When Keith and Sara Shepherd took over operations in the 90’s the farm was converted to a conservation farm, with timber management, wildlife habitat, recreation and agritourism becoming the main focus of farm operations. Learn more about this land: With over 650 acres to chose from you can camp in open fields or wooded areas on our 100 year old family farm! We love sharing our farm with other conservation minded guest, but if you need access to modern amenities we can accommodate you too. We have over 10 miles of trails to explore nature on your own. If you just want to sit by a fire and relax we have a communal fireplace or fire pit. We have a pond for fishing or swimming whatever you heart desires. Pets are allowed and welcome. Be sure to bring your sense of wonder and take your walkabout on Burdoc Farms!

3. Lake Malone State Park

25 sites · Dunmor, Kentucky

Discover Lake Malone State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

4. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

44 sites · Dawson Springs, Kentucky

Discover the natural splendor of Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Rough River Lake

60%

(5)

355 sites · Caneyville, Kentucky

Boasting rocky shorelines, verdant outcroppings, and tranquil waters, Rough River Lake is a stunning getaway for you and your closest friends. About 90 miles south of Louisville, it's far enough away from civilization to get a breath of fresh air, but close enough not to be too inconvenient. If you're really rarin' to explore, try hitting up the sandy beaches built for swimming and boat launches that are just waiting for your vessel. Hiking and interpretive trails are the perfect place to keep an eye out for wildlife, and no one will fault you for wanting to take a swing at the 18-hole golf course. With the historic Green Farm nearby, you can check out a large ancestral home and water-powered mill sitting on 3,000 miles of picturesque land. Pretty sweet deal, we've gotta say.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. John James Audubon State Park

87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky

Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

7. Nolin River Lake

100%

(5)

347 sites · Brownsville, Kentucky

If you're a boater or fisher, Nolin Lake Park is definitely the place for you. Use your trustiest bait and cast a line for crappie, catfish, or walleye, which are abundant in the azure lake waters. Boaters will be happy to use a conveniently placed launch, and a sandy beach awaits swimmers and people gettin' on their tan on alike. Nine miles of biking trails are the perfect way to explore the shaded paths, and a shorter hiking trail offers the sight of a cascading waterfall. Keep an eye out for a variety of birds from great blue herons to wild turkeys. If you're lucky, you may even catch sight of the elusive and beautiful bald eagle. We can salute to that.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

8. Mammoth Cave National Park

96%

(71)

128 sites · Park City, Kentucky

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

R

Robyn

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

The area is just beautiful! We really enjoyed our camping experience here!

M

Mindy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

The property is soooo cool. The rock formations were amazing. The history of the land is worth researching. Van was the friendliest of hosts and their puppy hosts was also very friendly. ❤️ 10/10 recommend. Thank you so much!!

S

Sarah

October 2025

8 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Burdoc Farms

I would have stayed forever if I could. So romantic, beautiful, and safe feeling for a solo female traveler.

T

Taylor

September 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Burdoc Farms

Awesome stay at the farm! Plenty of space and very private. Our dogs absolutely loved it. Thanks Sara!

N

Noah

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

Great peacefull place. We caught many bass, catfish, and crappie in the lake.

S

Scott

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

It was a bit of a challenge to get here by bicycle but it was well worth the effort. The owners were more than helpful always looking to make my stay a little bit better. I would highly recommend staying here if you are in the area.

A

Amgela

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

The stay was beautiful and the campsite at the cliff was quiet, clean and very private. Thank you for having us we really enjoyed all of it! Chuck was super nice and the facilities were very clean!!

J

Jeremiah

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

Amazing lakeside campsite with stunning views and pristine facilities. Chuck was fantastic, attentive, and full of local history. A perfect nature getaway. Can’t wait to return!

B

Billy

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Tar Springs 2

Spacious land for camping, fishing and hiking. Free access to boats and canoes. Very clean Indoor bathroom and showers. Far enough out from city lights for night sky gazing or telescope viewing. Great for family or friends camping or event gatherings.

D

Dawid

April 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tar Springs 2

Highly recommended. Great place. Amazing hosts! Good for fishing and boating. Bike riding. Hiking. Nice and clean restrooms and showers on site. Thank you again!