Kentucky has something for everyone, from amusement parks to incredible beaches to natural attractions. Check out our ultimate guide with the resources you need to plan an RV camping trip to Kentucky.
- Finding Campgrounds
- Preparing for RV Camping
- Considerations for Camping in Kentucky
- Planning Your Itinerary
- Exploring Outdoor Activities
- Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions
- Safety and Preparedness when RV Camping in Kentucky
Finding Campgrounds
Kentucky has plenty of campgrounds across the state. From luxury RV resorts to campgrounds in the city to wilderness camping in the middle of nowhere, there is something for everyone in this camping-friendly state.
Exploring Public Campgrounds in Kentucky
Let’s start by taking a look at Kentucky’s public campgrounds. These include state park campgrounds, campgrounds run by the National Park Service, and National Forest Service camping options. All are excellent picks for those who like camping in beautiful places.
National Park Camping
Mammoth Cave National Park is located in Kentucky. This is an amazing park for anyone interested in caves, as it is home to the biggest cave system in the world. It’s also an ideal place to take a hike and soak up the beauty of nature.
Two of Mammoth Cave National Park’s three campgrounds welcome RVs. Mammoth Cave Campground is just a short walk from the visitor center and features lovely, shaded sites near all the action. Meanwhile, Maple Springs Campground also has well-shaded sites. It’s a ten-minute drive from the visitor center, making it a quieter place to stay.
National Forest Camping
Kentucky is home to two national forests: Daniel Boone National Forest and Jefferson National Forest. Both of these forests feature some amazing hikes and camping opportunities.
In Daniel Boone National Forest, we recommend staying in the Zilpo Recreation Area. This is a large camping area with plenty of RV sites, some with partial hookups. It offers beautiful mountain views, lake access, and a perfect escape into nature.
Honestly, very little of Jefferson National Forest makes its way into Kentucky. If you want to camp in this forest, we recommend crossing over into Virginia and staying at Bark Camp Recreation Area.
State Park Camping
Kentucky’s state parks are another fantastic option. They are in some of the most beautiful locations in the state and offer very affordable camping fees, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park is one of our favorites. We also love Green River Lake State Park. Both offer plenty of campsites and lots of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Exploring Private Campgrounds and RV Parks
Private campgrounds and RV parks in Kentucky are also plentiful, and many are absolutely fantastic places to stay. From glamping resorts to simple family parks with comforts and amenities such as clean laundry rooms, bathhouses, and dump stations, we’re guessing you’ll find a great place to stay pretty easily.
One of our favorite campgrounds in Kentucky is the Tween the Lakes Campground in Grand Rivers. This park is only a few minutes from Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, meaning outdoor fun is never hard to find. It features some pull-through sites, room for big rigs, and free Wi-Fi.
Another good pick? Whispering Hills RV Park. This one is located in Georgetown and is right off the highway, meaning it’s super easy to access. Amenities include individual bathrooms, a book exchange, and occasional events such as concerts.
Boondocking in Kentucky
If you’re on a super tight budget or just like camping off the grid, boondocking in Kentucky is another good option. You won’t have the amenities offered in the state’s many campgrounds, but you’ll save some money while staying in beautiful places.
One of our top picks is Swain Ridge Road Dispersed Camping. This is a large clearing that is perfect for RVers. It’s near Parkers Lake and is part of the Daniel Boone National Forest. The camping area provides easy access to trails, streams, and more.
Preparing for RV Camping
The first thing you’ll need to do when planning your Kentucky adventure is to make sure you have a comfortable place to stay, along with all the items you need to be happy and safe while you’re out. If you own an RV, you likely already have everything you need, but if you don’t, you’ll want to look into a Kentucky RV rental.
Choosing the Right RV for Your Needs
If you’ve never been RVing before, choosing the right rental RV might feel a bit intimidating. The best place to start is by asking yourself whether you’d like to drive the RV you rent or if you prefer a delivery. Choosing to have your RV delivered will narrow your options a bit.
Plan to drive the rig yourself? If you want a trailer, you’ll want to ensure you have a vehicle that is strong enough to tow it. Otherwise, a driveable rig might be a better pick.
Other things to consider when picking out the perfect rental RV include amenities, floor plan, RV size (make sure it’s big enough to be comfortable and will fit into whatever site you choose), and any items that are included (things like camp chairs and linens can be very helpful).
Packing Essentials for a Successful Trip
Once you have your RV rental booked, you will need to pack for RV camping in Kentucky. We’ve compiled a packing list for any type of event you may be traveling to in an RV.
Considerations for Camping in Kentucky
It’s always a good idea to check on local laws and rules regarding RVing before you hit the road. While Kentucky’s rules are pretty typical, knowing them before your trip is certainly helpful.
Some rules to know: Kentucky requires that all rigs be under 65 feet total. Trailers and motorhomes cannot exceed 45 feet in length, 8.5 feet in width, or 13.5 feet in height. Triple towing is allowed, but that 65-foot length limit still applies.
Trailers over 3,000 lbs must have a safety chain, a breakaway switch, and brakes.
Planning Your Itinerary
Next, it’s time to start thinking about what you will see and do while in Kentucky. The state has a lot to offer! From the museums and other attractions found in Louisville to the gorgeous parks, trails, and bodies of water scattered across the state, we’re betting you’re going to find a whole lot of ways to fill your time.
Features and Attractions in Kentucky
Scenic byways are a great way to get to know any state, and Kentucky is no exception! Our favorite drive in the state is the Red River Gorge Scenic byway, which takes you by some of the most beautiful places in the state.
Landmarks are another biggie. In Kentucky, some of the most iconic landmarks include Churchill Downs and the Louisville Water Company Pumping Station. Be sure to add whatever Kentucky landmarks sound interesting to you to your itinerary.
Of course, we must also mention the state’s many national sites. These include places like the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park and Camp Nelson National Monument. Sites like these are always worth seeing.
Festivals, Fairs, and Events in Kentucky
Want to add a bit of spice to your Kentucky adventures? Travel to an event while you’re in the state! Kentucky plays host to a variety of great events throughout the year, and adding one to your trip will make your getaway a memorable one.
Some of our favorite Kentucky events include the Kentucky Derby Festival in Louisville in the spring, the Kentucky Book Festival in Lexington during November, and the International Bar-B-Q Festival in Owensboro during May.
Exploring Outdoor Activities
Spending some time outdoors is a must-do while RV camping in Kentucky. Luckily, this state has plenty of awesome outdoor areas, so finding ways to reconnect with Mother Nature is a breeze.
Hiking, Biking and Nature Trails
Whether you prefer hiking or cycling, there is a trail for you in this state!
- Double Arch, Courthouse Rock, and Auxier Ridge Loop in Red River Gorge: Geological Area — Moderate
- Rock Bridge Trail in Red River Gorge Geological Area — Moderate
- Original Natural Bridge Trail via Lake Side Trail in Natural Bridge State Park — Moderate
- Green River Bluff, Echo River Springs, Sinkhole, and Heritage Trail in Mammoth Cave National Park — Moderate
- Copperas Falls in Clifty Wilderness — Moderate
Cyclists might prefer to hit these Kentucky bike trails:
- Cherokee Park Trail in Cherokee Park
- Incinerator and Train Surfer Loop in Devou Park
- Veterans Park Trail in Veterans Park
- Barkley Canal Full Loop in Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
- Paw Paw Trail to Hickory Trail Loop in The Parklands of Floyds Fork: Turkey Run Park
Fishing, Boating, and Water Activities
Those who prefer water activities will also enjoy their trip to Kentucky. From fishing and boating to swimming and chasing waterfalls, you’ll find some way to enjoy the water during your visit.
Let’s start with fishing. Kentucky is home to a number of excellent fishing spots. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park is one of our top picks and is loaded with crappie, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and trout. We also like fishing in Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park and Kentucky Lake’s Big Bear Resort.
You’ll also find some pretty good beaches in Kentucky. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Beach offers plenty of sand to play in, and the greenery surrounding the lake is lovely. We also love the beach at Lake Malone State Park, as the waters are relatively shallow, making it perfect for kids.
You might also enjoy the waterfalls in Kentucky. Broke Leg Falls is a nice little fall that can be accessed via a short and easy hike. We prefer Flat Lick Falls though. This one is located near Gray Hawk on Flat Lick Creek, and the moss-covered rocks and trees surrounding the falls make it a truly picturesque place.
Wildlife Viewing and Photography
Animals are plentiful in Kentucky’s natural areas, making this an ideal place for wildlife viewing and photography. Head to Kentucky’s state parks, national forests, or Mammoth Cave National Park to watch for wildlife.
For even more animals, try heading to the Elk and Bison Prairie at Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.
Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions
Taking the kids with you? They’ll likely love all of the sightseeing options we’ve mentioned already. You might also consider some of these family-friendly options as well.
Historical Sites and Museums
We love to squeeze a bit of education into any trip with kids. In Kentucky, you can do that by visiting those NPS sites we mentioned earlier. The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park is also a good pick, as is the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.
Museums are another great way to add some learning to your adventures. We love the Louisville Slugger Museum, as well as the Kentucky Derby Museum. The Kentucky Science Center is also in Louisville and offers hands-on fun, and the Explorium of Lexington is a fun one. Many families also enjoy the Ark Encounter in Williamstown.
Amusement Park, Zoos, and Wildlife Refuges
What about adding a Kentucky amusement park to your itinerary? Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay in Louisville are great options for the whole family.
You can also check out zoos in the area. The Louisville Zoo is wonderful, the Newport Aquarium is a great place to view sealife, and the Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo in Horse Cave is a unique attraction the whole family will enjoy.
Safety and Preparedness when RV Camping in Kentucky
You will want to stay safe while RV camping in Kentucky. You’ll want to be prepared for possible natural disasters and animal encounters.
Weather Conditions and Natural Disaster Preparedness
Some of the most common Kentucky natural disasters include flooding, earthquakes, and sometimes landslides.
To stay safe from flooding, avoid parking your RV in an area that is prone to flooding and skip driving in heavy rains. You will also want to avoid camping in areas that are prone to landslides.
To stay in the know about incoming storms, make sure you have a good weather app downloaded and allow it to send you push notifications.
Wildlife Encounters and Precautions
Animals that make themselves at home in Kentucky include black bears, coyotes, foxes, and some venomous snakes and spiders.
Avoid bites from spiders and snakes by watching where you step and checking dark enclosed spaces before sticking a hand inside. If you do encounter one of these critters, make slow movements away from them. Know where the nearest hospital is, so that if you are bitten by a venomous snake or spider, you can head there for help.
Make plenty of noise while hiking in order to let larger creatures like bears, wolves, and coyotes know you’re coming. If you encounter an animal along the way, make some noise and slowly back away. If you come across a bear, make yourself look bigger by holding your arms up and backing away slowly and quietly, getting your bear spray ready in case the bear charges.
Hopefully, this article has given you the tools you need to plan an exciting Kentucky vacation. If this is your first RV camping trip, you may also want to check out our tips for beginners!
