Summer Camping in Kentucky

Summer Camping in Kentucky

Discover the best summer camping across Kentucky. Experience the best of outdoor camping during the warmest months. Long days, starry nights, and endless adventure await.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: June through August
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Cumberland Point Campground
Star
4.8
(135)
Cumberland Point Campground
Nancy
Lake Cumberland

Fourteen waterfront campsites deliver direct access to Lake Cumberland's crystal-clear waters, where summer days unfold with boating, swimming, and fishing right outside your tent.

Tents
RVs
2
Paintsville Lake State Park
Photo coming soon
Star
4.7
(142)
Paintsville Lake State Park
Paintsville

Kentucky's longest sand beach stretches along Paintsville Lake's crystal waters, inviting swimmers and sunbathers to settle in while boaters and anglers explore the expansive shoreline.

Tents
RVs
3
Eureka
Star
4.7
(400)
Eureka
Grand Rivers
Barkley Lake

The three-sided water peninsula puts you steps away from Lake Barkley's swimming beach, boat launch, and fishing spots, with the 2.5-mile Chestnut Oaks Trail winding through shaded woods behind camp.

Tents
RVs

About Summer Camping in Kentucky

Summer camping Kentucky offers an exceptional blend of lake recreation, Appalachian wilderness, and southern hospitality across the Bluegrass State's diverse landscapes. From the crystal-clear waters of Lake Cumberland in south-central Kentucky to the rugged Appalachian hills of the eastern region, summer campers discover a state rich with natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Best Time

Peak summer camping season in Kentucky runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with July and August offering the warmest water temperatures ideal for swimming and water sports. Early summer (late May through June) provides excellent fishing as bass and crappie remain active before the heat, fewer crowds at popular campgrounds, and lush green forests at their most vibrant.

Season Highlights

  • Warm weather and long days
  • Swimming and water activities
  • Full amenities and services
  • Family-friendly activities

Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Summer Camping in Kentucky

Map of campgrounds near Summer Camping in Kentucky
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Map Key
1
Cumberland Point Campground
2
Paintsville Lake State Park
3
Eureka
4
Lake Malone State Park
5
Cave Creek
6
Fall Creek Campground
7
Laurel Branch
8
Dog Creek (Ky)
9
The Narrows
10
Littcarr Campground
11
Bee Rock Campground
12
Grove
13
Great Meadows Campground
14
Red River Gorge Geological Area
15
Turkey Foot Campground
16
S-Tree Campground
17
Boat Gunnel Group Campground
18
Green River Lake State Park
19
Baileys Point
20
Fishing Creek Campground
View all 20 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Swimming at sandy beaches and designated lake areasBoating and water skiing on major reservoirsFishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and troutKayaking and canoeing in coves and creeksHiking trails through hardwood forests and along bluffsMountain biking on dedicated trail systems

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve lakeside sites at popular destinations like Cumberland Point, Paintsville Lake, and Eureka at least three months in advance for summer weekends, as waterfront locations book quickly through recreation.gov and state park systems.
  • 2Bring plenty of sun protection including high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and shade structures, as Kentucky summer sun can be intense, especially on open lake waters.
  • 3Pack insect repellent for mosquitoes and ticks, particularly at wooded campgrounds and during evening hours near water.
  • 4Consider bringing or renting a boat, kayak, or canoe to fully experience Kentucky's lake camping—many campgrounds offer boat ramps and some provide rentals on-site.
20 campgrounds ranked
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Curated for Summer Camping in Kentucky

Summer Camping in Kentucky FAQ

We've ranked 20+ summer campgrounds in Kentucky based on weather, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds with shade, water access, and good summer conditions.
June through August is prime summer camping season in Kentucky. June and September offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while July and August are peak season.
For summer camping in Kentucky, bring sun protection, plenty of water, cooling gear, and light layers for cooler evenings. Bug spray is essential in many areas.
Availability Alerts

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