Hiking Campgrounds in Kentucky
Discover the best hiking campgrounds across Kentucky. Experience the best of both worlds with camping that puts you right at the heart of incredible hiking opportunities. Direct trail access and stunning mountain vistas.
Hiking Campgrounds in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Daniel Boone National Forest
Seventy miles of trails wind through ancient sandstone arches and cliff-lined ridges, delivering some of the East's most dramatic wilderness scenery at every turn.
Daniel Boone National Forest
Four distinct trails launch directly from camp, ranging from the quick 0.3-mile Cliff Trail to the 2.3-mile Koomer Ridge route that unlocks access to over 50 miles threading through Red River Gorge's sandstone arches and sculpted canyon walls.
Daniel Boone National Forest
Trailheads fan out directly from camp, delivering 1.3 to 2.1 miles of easy-to-moderate paths that wind past river overlooks and historic landmarks. The Rockcastle Narrows Trail leads hikers through dramatic sandstone passages while Bee Rock Loop rewards climbers with sweeping vistas above...
About Hiking Campgrounds in Kentucky
Hiking camping Kentucky offers an extraordinary blend of geological wonders, from the world-famous sandstone arches of Red River Gorge to the underground passages of Mammoth Cave National Park. The Bluegrass State's diverse terrain spans the rugged Appalachian foothills in the east to the rolling karst landscapes of central Kentucky, creating a hiking paradise with over 1,500 miles of trails across state parks, national forests, and recreation areas.
Best Time
Spring and fall deliver the best hiking camping conditions in Kentucky, with April through May and September through November offering comfortable temperatures, vibrant scenery, and optimal trail conditions. Spring brings wildflower displays throughout the gorge country and state parks, with dogwood and redbud blooming in late April, though occasional rain can make trails muddy and creek crossings challenging.
Activity Highlights
- Direct trail access
- Mountain and forest settings
- Backpacking base camps
- Scenic wilderness views
Campground Locations
Showing top 20 campgrounds near Hiking Campgrounds in Kentucky
Plan Your Trips
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve campsites early for Red River Gorge and Mammoth Cave areas, especially for October weekends when foliage peaks—these popular destinations often book out 2-3 months ahead.
- 2Bring sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support for Kentucky's rocky terrain, as sandstone trails can be slippery when wet and limestone areas feature sharp, uneven surfaces.
- 3Pack plenty of water since many trails lack reliable water sources, and always treat or filter any water from streams due to agricultural runoff in some areas.
- 4Download offline maps before arriving, as cell service is unreliable in gorge areas and remote sections of Daniel Boone National Forest—the AllTrails app works well for Kentucky's trail systems.
Hiking Campgrounds in Kentucky FAQ
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