Land of the Arches (2 miles/3 minutes): At just a stone’s throw away from us, this campground has it all – hot showers, wifi, games, and a small general store for just $8/person/night. Primarily tent camping is offered in a large field where the sunsets are gorgeous. Be sure to stake your tent down, as it gets quite windy up there! Contact the office at 606-668-7074 to inquire about group rates or RV camping. NO DOGS allowed.

Natural Bridge State Park (3.7-5 miles/5-8 minutes): Home to breathtaking views, hiking, square dancing, and of course – the “Natural Bridge” itself – this Kentucky State Park is full of opportunities for fun and exploration. Reservations for camping within the Natural Bridge State Park can be made here or by calling 888-459-7275. The park offers 2 campgrounds: Middle Fork (3.7 miles) & Whittleton (5 miles). While both primitive and camper options are offered at both, Whittleton has a more rustic/secluded feel compared to its neighbor.

Natural Bridge Campground (7.2 miles/10 minutes): Despite the name, this campground is not in fact in Natural Bridge State Park. It is, however, located conveniently in the heart of the Red River Gorge, right off the Mountain Parkway exit 33. Offering both primitive and RV campsites, many sites are shaded and equipped with their own picnic tables and fire rings. Other amenities include hot showers, wifi, and a stocked pond for fishing! Make reservations here.

4 Guys RV Park (9.2 miles/13 minutes): This relatively new campground is top-notch – with both RV and primitive camping, it also offers showers, wifi, a pool, playground and a stocked fishing pond. Visit this page for reservations. Contact them for more info on group rates as well!

Koomer Ridge Campground (10.5 miles/16 minutes): OK, so according to Google Maps it’s a 16 minute drive to Koomer Ridge… but it’s well worth the extra minute to experience this beautiful setting within the Daniel Boone National Forest itself. Koomer Ridge offers both primitive and camper trailer sites, on a first-come first-serve basis. Several miles of hiking opportunities exist directly from the campground itself! Visit here for more info.