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Kentucky · camping guide

Camping in Kentucky

292 places to camp in Kentucky: 85 national forest and federal campgrounds, 1 state park campgrounds, 14 free dispersed and primitive spots, 192 private campgrounds and RV parks. The best camping months are Apr–Jun & Sep–Oct, judged from 30 years of weather at a typical camp: comfortable days, mild nights, little rain. In June expect highs near 84°F and lows near 61°F.

Photo: Pexels
292places to camp
16free or dispersed
Apr–Jun & Sep–Octbest months
96%with cell signal at camp

Best areas to camp

  1. Around Jeffersonville42 camps in the area within 25 miles
  2. Around Leitchfield39 camps in the area within 25 miles
  3. Around Somerset38 camps in the area within 25 miles
  4. Around Calvert City24 camps in the area within 25 miles
  5. Around Louisville/Jefferson County metro government (balance)23 camps in the area within 25 miles

Questions

When is the best time to camp in Kentucky?

The best camping months are Apr–Jun & Sep–Oct, judged from 30 years of weather at a typical camp: comfortable days, mild nights, little rain. In June expect highs near 84°F and lows near 61°F.

Is there free camping in Kentucky?

Yes: 16 free or dispersed spots, mostly on national forest and BLM land.

Will I have cell signal camping in Kentucky?

At about 96% of camps, at least one carrier has 4G or better (FCC coverage maps, which tend to be generous). Plan for no signal on trails.

See all 292 on the map

Filter by camp type, amenities and activities, fly over any camp in 3D, then plan your trip.

Open Kentucky in Find camps

This week's picks

A different handful each week. Tap a camp to see it from above, check the weather and plan the drive.

  • Laurel BranchFederal campground · Reservable · Cell signal

    Laurel Branch Campground is located on the shore of Rough River Lake in south central Kentucky.

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  • The NarrowsFederal campground · Reservable · Cell signal

    The Narrows is a family-friendly campground on Barren River Lake, perfect for water lovers and anglers. The Narrows Campground is a 92-site area located near a marina and boat launch ramp.…

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  • Fishtrap Lake SheltersFederal campground · Reservable · No cell signal

    Nestled among mountains and dense forests, the Fishtrap Lake area will appeal to anyone who loves boating, fishing or hiking. A man-made lake surrounded by natural beauty, Fishtrap Lake was…

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  • Mammoth Cave CampgroundFederal campground · Reservable · Cell signal

    Please review "Need to Know" for the campground and additional "Need to Know" information for individual sites.

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  • AxtelFederal campground · Reservable · Cell signal

    Axtel Campground is located on the shore of Rough River Lake in south central Kentucky.

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  • Trace Branch CampgroundFederal campground · Reservable · Cell signal

    The Trace Branch Campground, located on Buckhorn Lake, is a great launchpad for outdoor activities in Kentucky's lush Cumberland Plateau. The facility features plenty of shade and open…

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  • Baileys PointFederal campground · Reservable · Cell signal

    Bailey's Point campground is the largest of the Army Corps of Engineers' campgrounds on Barren River Lake. This campground offers several waterfront campsites with scenic views of the lake.…

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  • Mill Springs Mill ShelterFederal campground · Reservable · Cell signal

    Mill Springs Mill is located at 9135 Highway 1275 North, Monticello, KY and is a day-use facility located on the shores of Lake Cumberland, overlooking the main body of the lake. There is…

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Free camping in Kentucky

16 spots cost nothing: dispersed sites on national forest and BLM land and free campgrounds. Most have no water or toilets, and stays are usually limited to 14 days.

See all free camping on the map