Camping in Kentucky

Forget crowded beaches and fancy resorts – Kentucky’s calling outdoor lovers with a down-home charm! Enjoy campfires crackling under endless starry skies, waking up to misty mornings by a glistening lake, and exploring hidden wonders like Mammoth Cave.

If this feels like your kind of adventure, lace up your boots, grab your gear, and get ready to experience the magic of Kentucky camping – it’s a down-home adventure you won’t forget! Don’t miss the legendary southern hospitality; friendly locals and delicious camp meals are as much a part of the experience as the stunning scenery.

This geological wonderland is a climber’s paradise, featuring towering sandstone cliffs, natural arches, and hidden waterfalls. Campgrounds like Koomer Ridge and Miguel’s Pizza offer tent and RV sites nestled within the scenic landscape. Hiking trails wind through the gorge, offering breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna. Kayaking and fishing are also popular activities on the Red River.

Home to the world’s longest recorded cave system, Mammoth Cave National Park is a must-visit for spelunkers and nature enthusiasts alike. Campgrounds like Mammoth Cave Campground and Green River Campground provide access to various cave tours, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks. Above ground, explore the rolling hills and forests, or take a boat tour on the Green River.

This sprawling lake nestled amidst the Cumberland Plateau offers pristine waters for boating, fishing, and swimming. Campgrounds like Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park and Dale Hollow Lake Marina & Resort provide various amenities and stunning lakefront views. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding hills, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and scenic vistas.

Named for its iconic 80-foot-high natural bridge and a stunning geological formation, campgrounds like Natural Bridge Campground and Twin Arches Campground offer a variety of amenities and access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. The park also features a swimming pool, mini-golf, and skylift for additional entertainment.

This vast recreation area encompasses forests, lakes, and historical sites, offering something for everyone. Campgrounds like Woodlands Nature Center Campground and Piney Lake Campground provide access to boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Mammoth Cave, nestled within the rolling hills of south-central Kentucky, is not just a cave; it's a sprawling underground world. With over 400 miles of explored passages, it holds the title of the world's longest-recorded cave system. Guided tours lead you through various levels, unveiling hidden chambers adorned with glistening formations and echoing with the whispers of ancient water.

Kentucky and bourbon are practically synonymous. This unique American spirit, aged in oak barrels and boasting complex flavors, has become a cultural touchstone. Embark on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, a passport to over 40 distilleries scattered across the state. Each distillery offers a unique experience, from tours that unveil the secrets of bourbon-making to tastings that tantalize your palate with signature blends.

Every first Saturday in May, the eyes of the sporting world turn to Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, for the Kentucky Derby. Witness the electrifying spectacle of thoroughbreds thundering down the historic racetrack, cheered on by enthusiastic crowds adorned in their finest Derby attire. The energy is palpable, the competition fierce, and the mint juleps flow freely.

Calling all spelunkers and thrill-seekers! Embark on unique adventures within this massive cave system, from ziplining through vast caverns to rappelling down underground walls.

Venture beyond the iconic Mammoth Cave and discover the Hidden River Cave in Horse Cave. This privately owned wonder showcases stunning formations untouched by mass tourism. Embark on a guided boat tour through an underground river, marveling at towering stalagmites and glistening flowstone formations. Feel the cool mist as you navigate hidden chambers and witness the captivating interplay of light and water.

Experience the heart of Kentucky's rich cultural heritage in Berea. Visit the Kentucky Artisan Center, showcasing the finest works of over 800 Kentucky artisans. Watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts like weaving, pottery, and wood carving, and discover unique handcrafted souvenirs. Afterward, stroll through the historic downtown, savoring local flavors at family-owned restaurants and shops.

Paddle down the Kentucky River, following the path of the historic Buffalo Trace, once used by Native Americans and early settlers. Explore ancient rock shelters, encounter diverse wildlife, and learn about the region's fascinating past through interpretive signs. This peaceful journey down the river offers a unique perspective on Kentucky's heritage.

Travel back millions of years at Big Bone Lick State Park near Union. Explore the site of a prehistoric megafauna bonebed, where fossils of giant mammoths, mastodons, and other creatures reveal a vanished ecosystem. Visit the Interpretive Center to learn about these ancient giants and their significance.

Want to explore the world of thoroughbred horses at Keeneland Racecourse and the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington? Experience the thrill of live horse racing at Keeneland, a renowned venue known as the "Run for the Roses." You can also tour the Kentucky Horse Park, home to the International Museum of the Horse and showcasing various breeds.

Descend into a majestic underground cathedral at Cathedral Caverns State Park near Hiseville. Marvel at awe-inspiring formations like the towering Gothic Arch and the delicate Draperies. Take a guided tour to learn about the cave's geological history and admire the natural beauty illuminated by colorful lights. Witness live music events held within the caverns, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.

 Journey beneath the surface of the Ohio River and explore the wonders of the aquatic world at the Newport Aquarium. This sprawling aquarium features over 7,000 animals from the Pacific Northwest, Amazon rainforest, and more. Visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel, touch stingrays, and even feed a penguin.

Gearheads, rejoice! This museum houses over 80 stunning Corvettes, including rare and iconic models, making it a pilgrimage site for car enthusiasts.

Go beyond the ordinary trip planning with GoCampingAmerica.com and the Outdoor Hospitality Industry Association (OHI). OHI members gain exclusive access to a powerful search engine featuring over 3,000 campgrounds across the US and Canada, making finding your perfect campsite a breeze. Dive into member-only resources like expert trip planning guides, insightful newsletters, and insider tips to craft an unforgettable journey.

Enjoy special discounts on camping fees at participating parks, maximizing your travel budget. Connect with fellow RV enthusiasts through OHI's vibrant community, sharing experiences and recommendations. Plus, OHI advocates for your interests, ensuring fair regulations and a safe, enjoyable experience for all. Join OHI today and elevate your RV trip planning to the next level!