From mind bending natural rock formations to the largest cave system in the world to the largest waterfall south of Niagara Falls, Kentucky boasts some of the most interesting and most unique camping locations in the world. Although there are 31 campgrounds in the Kentucky State Park system, which locations are the best for those visiting from out of state? Listed below are the top five best places to camp in Kentucky.
Red River Gorge
Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge boasts beautiful overlooks and mountain views at the end of almost every trail—of which there are over sixty to choose from, all of varying difficulties, so there is something for every hiker of every experience level to enjoy. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, Red River Gorge is also home to the white-haired goldenrod, a bird that cannot be found anywhere else in the world other than this park.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Natural Bridge State Resort Park sports 22 miles of hiking trails, two campgrounds, and a 60-acre lake for boating and fishing. It’s also close to red river gorge, so you can explore both in one trip. This campground is excellent for those who have RVs or collapsible wagons such as the Chillcamping wagon, as it’s highly accessible for campers of all types.
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park
If you have young children, Jellystone Park is an excellent option for a first camping experience. Not only do they have several wooded areas and hiking trails, as well as options for tents or modern cabins, but it’s excellent for those who enjoy camping but may not enjoy the more rustic aspects. They have organized activities every night, and also have playgrounds, pools with water slides, a splash pad, an outdoor theater, a fishing pond, volleyball, minigold, horseshoes, weekend karaoke, and live music. It’s also extremely close to Mammoth Cave, so you can explore both parks in one trip.
Mammoth Cave Campground
Mammoth Cave, which is located just 90 minutes outside of Louisville, is home to the world’s longest known cave system; and experts estimate that there’s an additional 600 miles that have yet to be discovered. If you camp here, you can tour the caves with the help of a guide, either on foot or by boat, and also take advantage of their modern restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
Cumberland Falls State Park
Known as the “Niagara of the South,” Cumberland Falls State Park is home to the largest waterfall south of Niagara Falls. If you time your trip right, you can experience a natural phenomenon known as a “lunar rainbow,” which is affectionately referred to as “the moonbow.” Cumberland Falls is the only place in the western hemisphere where you can see this incredible phenomenon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kentucky is home to some of the best campgrounds in the country. Whether you’re coming in from out of town as a tourist, or simply a native Kentuckian looking for a weekend getaway in the sticks, you can find no shortage of campgrounds that offer any experience you might desire. You can also experience events that you won’t be able to experience anywhere else in the world, such as the moonbow of Cumberland Falls, the natural arch at Natural Bridge, or the world’s largest cave system located at Mammoth Cave.