1. Red River Gorge Geological Area: Koomer Ridge Campground
One of the most amazing areas in Kentucky is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, located in the Daniel Boone National Forest. After looking at a few photos you will understand what makes this area so unique. The miles of trails will bring you to sandstone arches, jagged cliffs and beautiful overlooks. There are two very rare birds that live in the park including the white-haired goldenrod (which only lives in this park) and the red-breasted nuthatches. Larger birds of prey like hawks and eagles also live in the park. The Koomer Ridge Campground is located in the park and has access to several of the best trails in the park. Take the 1 mile Hidden Arch tour to see one of the rock formations this park is known for. Back at the campground you can rest up for another day of exploring!
2. Cave Run Lake: Twin Knobs Campground
Twin Knobs Campground is on a peninsula in Cave Run Lake with water on three sides. You can hike the shoreline trail and look for Canadian geese, great blue heron and osprey. Many of the campsites are lakeside so you can wake up and have your morning coffee overlooking the cool blue lake. With 199 campsites there are plenty to choose from with some that can accommodate large campers and 141 of the sites have electric. There is a boat ramp right in the park so you can set sail for some early morning fishing for bluegill, bass, crappie and muskie. Or launch your kayak to explore some of the marshy coves that are on Cave Run Lake. A great option for camping this summer!
3. Mammoth Cave Campground
The world’s longest known cave system is the Mammoth Caves in the town with its namesake. You absolutely can tour the caves and explore the dark, cool caverns, but you do need to have a tour guide. Tickets are available online and sell out quickly, especially in the summer, so plan ahead. Remember that the temperatures in the cave can get cool, around 54°, so dress accordingly. You should also know that you will see bats on the tour (cool for some, not so cool for others!). There are 13 different species of bats in the park including three endangered species. The Indiana bat, gray bat and Northern long-eared bat. Unfortunately, some bat populations are being affected by white-nose syndrome (WNS) which is a fungal infection that eventually kills the bats. Conservationists are working together to stop the spread of WNS. After a cave tour you can head over to the campground to settle in. There are three campgrounds to choose from as well as backcountry and riverside primitive sites. The main campground, Mammoth Cave Campground is only a quarter mile from the visitor center and has 111 sites for RV and tent camping. There are modern restrooms, showers and laundry on-site. Definitely one of the best places to camp in Kentucky this summer!
4. Louisville South KOA Holiday
For a resort-like camping experience you have to stay at the Louisville South KOA. It is only a short drive south of Louisville so you have the best of both worlds. After a day exploring the Louisville Slugger Museum or the famous Churchill downs take a minute to change into your suit at your campsite and jump in the swimming pool. There is a large jumping pillow for the kids, a giant chess set and bike rentals for checking out the trails. In the summer they play outdoor movies on the mega screen so pop some popcorn over the campfire and head to the outdoor theater. There is a small pond on the property where you might see a family of ducks waddle by. The campground has everything from RV sites with full hookups to tent camping. There are also cabins available for rent. Join in the scheduled activities for a fun summer camping trip!
5. Green River Lake State Park
Another lakeside campground in Kentucky is the Green River Lake State Park Campground. The campsites are kind of close together but you can walk right to the beach, boat ramp and dock. Take advantage of the close proximity to the trail access for hiking, biking or horseback riding. Watch for deer coming to the water’s edge to get a drink of water or scan the sky for eagles and hawks that nest in the park. At the campground there are 167 sites for RV’s and another 60 tent sites. The facility has restrooms, showers, laundry and an 18-hole miniature golf course! Very fun!
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