Camping in Kentucky with swimming

Combine camping with rock climbing, horseback riding, and epic views in the Bluegrass State.

97% (3871 reviews)
97% (3871 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Kentucky

Star Hosts in Kentucky

Available this weekend

12 top campgrounds in Kentucky with swimming

99%
(211)

The Harrican Lakehouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · KY
There is a lot of history in this land. It's been in my family for over a hundred years. They worked the land with their hands and so have I. It's a special place. Come see for your yourself and be our guest at The Harrican! Learn more about this land: Unplug and unwind at this two story cabin built right on the water in the heart of the Kentucky Wildlands! Even though there is complete peaceful seclusion it does get a little noisy when the bullfrogs start their evening ritual. There is a dock and pier perfect for fishing or swimming. Firepit, grill with gas provided, two boats, fishing poles, lots of seating on the wrap around porch, two bedrooms; one with a queen bed and the other with two twin beds and just lots of natural beauty and peace! The BIG update everyone has been waiting for; the plumbing and electricity are now complete! We have all the ammenities to make your stay comfoetable and relaxing! Early and late check in and check out options available when availability exists the day before or after your booked stay. Thank you for interest in the Harrican Lakehouse!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
$35
 / night
99%
(175)

Barren River Magic

82 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents75 acres · Edmonton, KY
WE DO NOT TAKE LATE-NIGHT BOOKINGS OR LATE ARRIVAL TIMES, IF YOU BOOK YOUR STAY AND CAN ARRIVE BY 6 PM LOCAL TIME WE CAN GUIDE YOU TO YOUR GLAMPING SPOT ONCE YOU ARE THROUGH THE GATE. 6 PM IS THE CUT-OFF TIME FOR ARRIVAL. WE APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE BUT WE HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO ASSIST GUESTS WITH LATE-EVENING ARRIVALS AND BOOKINGS. WE UNDERSTAND CIRCUMSTANCES OCCUR, SO PLEASE MESSAGE IF YOU FORESEE AN ISSUE THAT WILL CAUSE YOU TO ARRIVE LATE. Welcome to our serene and nature-filled property nestled right on the tranquil banks of the Little Barren River! If you're seeking a getaway that combines outdoor adventures with peaceful relaxation, you've found your perfect destination. Choose from cozy tent sites, convenient RV sites, or glamping stays. PLEASE NOTE, for our glamping stays, bedding, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows are to be brought along by guests. The Fox Den and Peace Pipe glamping sites are the only exception. Our location offers an array of water-based activities just steps away from your accommodation. Whether you enjoy kayaking, paddling, fishing, or simply floating lazily in a tube, the Little Barren River welcomes you to indulge in its beauty. For those eager to explore the surrounding area, you'll find an abundance of local fun activities to partake in. Explore the wonders of Mammoth Cave, Cave City, Horse Cave, Diamond Caverns, Nolin Lake, Barren River, KY Down Under, and Green River Lake, all within easy reach from our property. We understand that your four-legged friends are a part of the family, which is why we are pet-friendly! Feel free to bring your furry companions along for the adventure. Campfires are permitted on our property and firewood is provided! We have portable toilets available for campers to use. Additionally, there are two centrally located showers accessible to all campers. While the water may be lukewarm, it is heated naturally by the sun, embracing our commitment to eco-friendly practices. Our location boasts an abundance of nature and tranquillity, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the great outdoors. Whether you prefer fishing, boating, birding, or hiking, our property offers a natural playground for all to enjoy.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$25
 / night
95%
(953)

The Slab (by the Barren)

80 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents500 acres · Fountain Run, KY
Welcome to Heaven on Earth for those that love the Great Outdoors!! If you cant find something to do here then you obviously don't want to do anything and thats ok we have ya covered there too!! We will be hosting some special events in 202 that we would like to make you aware of first thing so you can plan your visit accordingl Tanking, kayaking, camping and the trails will remain OPEN year round!! Now that all of that is out of the way... Let me introduce you to our little hidden gem in scenic Monroe county Kentucky.  The Slab by the Barren campground is an outdoor recreation area like no other!!!  We are the perfect place for all of your family fun in the sun!!!   We have 75 very large shaded primitive sites spread out all over our 500 acre farm with nice gravel roads to most of the campsites.  We do NOT have any hookups but can accommodate RV's on most sites and you are welcome to run a quiet generator. ( We will be setting up at least 3 sites this winter with hook ups for Rvs. Please follow us here or on facebook for updates on those sites) Sites 1 - 40 are located on the banks of Salt Lick creek and Barren River with direct water access. The gravel bars are open for all campers to enjoy. Camping areas A, B, and C are spread out across different sections of the farm. Even though they aren't directly on the water you are still welcome to go down to the creek at any site and swim and fish and just enjoy the water. If you need any help in choosing the perfect site for your stay feel free to message me or call the office at (812)653-0102 and I will help in anyway I can. On to our amenities!!!! THE BARN!!  Is our converted milk barn where Kent and his mother Linda used to milk cows. The tank room is now our office for check in and camp store that we try to keep stocked with the best ice cream and anything else you might have forgotten at home. The old milk parlor where they actually milked the cows has been converted into 4 separate shower houses that are open 24/7. The Holding barn is currently undergoing some major changes this winter. It was such a large room that we have decided, in order to maximize its space, to split the barn in half and make 2 separate areas out of it. The front half by the showers will remain the kids and family play area, it will still have the pool and air hockey tables, family friendly games, tables and chairs. We will be adding more games to this area this winter and adding some exciting outdoor activities for the whole family for this summer. The other half of the barn is currently becoming the Jenkins Joint at The Slab. The Joint will be our full service bar where those 21 and older can enjoy a cold beverage, a game of pool, live music, karaoke, or just hang out. We will have a food truck set up every Friday thru Sunday until we get our kitchen completed and can serve our own food. The food truck and the kitchen will be available for anyone that would like to order food, especially those that check in late and don't feel like cooking their first night. KAYAKING!!! Take a relaxing paddle down the river in your kayak or ours. We have multiple trips 1, 2, 3, 6, and 10 miles and offer a shuttle service, and kayak rentals for those that don't have their own. LAZY RIVER TUBING!!!! Go with the flow in your tube or ours and float your cares away on our 2 mile float down Barren River. Float as many times as you would like per day, stop at the rope swing, or hang out at your campsite and then take off again. TANKING!!! Yes you read that right we now offer Tanking!! I'm sure you have never heard of it but let me tell you, as one group of campers exclaimed... "It is the most genius, redneck, fun thing we have ever done". Depending on the size of your group we will either put you in a 6ft or 8ft round metal cattle water tank and float you 2 miles down the river in it!! We have designed them for the maximum amount of fun and relaxation you can have on the water without getting wet... unless you want to. We have installed benches in them so all you need to bring is your cooler and friends and come spend the day on the river with new unique experience. FISHING!! Multiple fishing holes where you can catch stripe, small mouth, rock bass, Kentucky bass, channel cats, flat heads, and walleye on a regular basis. HIKING We have trails all over the farm from the scenic views on top of the bluffs to the quiet spring fed slate rock holler there is a trail for everyone to enjoy while you explore the farm.  WATER SLIDE!!!! On the upper side of the Slab bridge is a 75 ft long water slide into one of our many swimming holes. It is steep and fast and you are sure to make a splash!!! SLIP N SLAB 600!!!! New at the end of 2023... is my Greatest Creation!! The Slip N Slab 600. What is it you might ask.... well.... It is the LONGEST Slip N Slide in ALL of Kentucky!! Come take a ride down our 600 Ft long Slip N Slide!! It starts up at the top of the hill by the office and you slide down the natural hollar and end in the pond just below the amphitheater. It really is Fun for the WHOLE Family!! We have had people as young a 2 and as old as 73 slide down it and each and every one of them came back up to the top with a smile on their face and was ready to do it again!! NOW ON TO THE RULES!!!! NO OUTSIDE FIRE WOOD!!!  We sell large bundles for $10 at the camp store. We DO NOT allow ANY outside fire wood to be brought onto the farm!! DO NOT CUT DOWN ANY TREES ON THE FARM NO MATTER HOW SMALL!!! CAMPSITES WILL BE CHECKED AFTER YOUR STAY.  IF WE FIND ANY TREES CUT DOWN ON YOUR SITE  YOU WILL BE HELD RESPONSIBLE AND WILL BE CHARGED 7 TIMES THE MATURE VALUE OF THE DAMAGED TREE. BOOKING A CAMPSITE AT THE SLAB BY THE BARREN THRU THIS SITE MEANS THAT YOU AGREE TO THESE TERMS.  We hate to have to do this but we have had trees chopped down for no reason. There is firewood available at the camp store and you are welcome to burn anything laying on the ground, trim low hanging branches, or pull stuff out of our brush piles. just don't cut down any trees. NO GLASS BOTTLES ARE ALLOWED ON THE FARM!! If we see them we will confiscate and dispose of them!! We are a WATER park and people run around barefoot. The last thing we need is broken glass all over the farm and people cutting their feet. So leave the GLASS AT HOME!! DIRT BIKES AND ATVS ARE NOW ALLOWED ON THE FARM!! Rider be respectful of our campers and ONLY ride on the designated trails!!  There are idle only areas around Pickett Bottom cabin and ALL Campsites. If you are caught riding with throttle down the gravel roads in the campground or thru campsites you will be given ONE WARNING!!  THE SECOND TIME it happens YOUR VEHICLE WILL BE IMPOUNDED for the remainder of your stay and you will receive A LIFETIME RIDING BAN FROM OUR CAMPGROUND. Be respectful and courteous and we will all have a great time!! We are trying to be inclusive to new activities while still staying the quiet peaceful slice of heaven that everyone has come to love. Please bear with us while we grow and try to work with everyone to make the Slab a place that everyone can enjoy. Thank you for your interest in our campground and we look forward to meeting you this 2024 camping season. God Bless!!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$30
 / night
95%
(672)

Rockcastle Riverside

50 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Livingston, KY
Started as a retirement experiment, Rockcastle Riverside is a story told of music and family. We have almost 200 acres of beautiful country surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest in Rockcastle County. With a mile of river to swim, kayak, and fish and enchanted forest trails to hike, climb, or play, we have all of the best Kentucky has to offer! We have more established sites with fire rings, or you can find a place off the beaten path for more privacy, if you choose. The riverside is perfect for hammock camping, too.  We love music and often host bands on the weekends. We rent kayaks and canoes on site, as well. While there are almost 200 acres to escape into, on any fine night, the stage sits wit a drum kit and the will to make music within the Daniel Boone National Forest. Come play, come get away....we have it ALL! We have a little of something for everyone!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$25
 / night
96%
(83)

Boone Valley Campground

50 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Beattyville, KY
Boone Valley Campground is a family owned and operated business that offers 30 acres of primitive, RV, and Van camping. Conveniently located only 1 mile away from the Pendergrass Murray Recreational Preserve, 7 miles from the Miller Fork Recreational Preserve, and 15 miles from the Natural Bridge State Resort Park and Red River Gorge Area. Boone Valley is perfect for outdoor adventurers and families who want to spend and enjoyable weekend in nature. Ask us about guided OHV Tours in the area! We offer guided tours! Concessions Truck on the property! Enjoy local events! Boone Valley is located 5 miles from downtown Beattyville, KY. Camp with us on weekends of local festivals such as the Bourbon and Moonshine Festival and the Woolly Worm Festival. Onsite enjoy weekend live music, bonfires, and home cooking from the Boone Valley Kitchen.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$20
 / night
98%
(540)

Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Williamsburg, KY
Thank you for considering Clayton Geneva memorial campground for your camping trip. Please read the entire description including our rules and regulations. Also be sure to view the site map. The gravel driveway to the sites is passable with any vehicle As long as the vehicle Does not have an aftermarket lowered profile or entirely overloaded with gear. We offer camping ranging from primitive tent sites, to an actual cabin. Hikers, kayakers, canoes, Horses and riders welcome, located a couple miles from Daniel Boone National Forrest, seemingly endless trails through some of the most beautiful country. Bring your canoe and kayaks. Located 16 miles from Cumberland Falls State Park. Located 11 miles from Sheltowee Trade Adventure Park. Located 11 miles from Kentucky Splash Water Park. 11 miles from The Mint Casino!! Clayton Geneva Camp Ground began as a retreat for our family since the 70's. My grandparents, Donald Clayton Russell & Jewel Geneva (Davis) Russell, purchased this little piece of heaven to get away from the hustle and bustle of Cincinnati life. Judy was born in a little cabin just down the road. Judy & Don along with many family members have made cherished memories here over the years. We want to share its beauty with you and your family. Guests love staying here "We stayed in Birdsong cabin for the Halloween campout weekend. The cabin was ready for us upon arrival and very clean. We enjoyed the privacy of our covered porch and fire ring. The bird feeders hanging all around the cabin are wonderful to watch all the birds during the day. The community fire ring is close enough to enjoy with other campers, but not to close that we could hear anyone in our cabin. Amber and Michael checked on our needs many times during our stay. They hosted a chili cook-off that we greatly enjoyed and passed out candy to all the kids. Overall a great time and experience. We will stay here again."
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$15
 / night
95%
(122)

Dragonfly Ranch camping with horses

4 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Cub Run, KY
Learn more about this land: This is a horse ranch so you can sleep in the company of horses or in the woods with them in the distance ( check if available/storm damage).We have rolling hills, beautiful views from the hill tops, valley with creeks and a waterfall when not in dry or draught and an abundance of wildlife. Also we're located 5-10 minutes from mammoth cave park border, hike, bike and horse trails, river, lake, blue holler atv park and so much more. If you are sensitive to animal noises you may bring earplugs. There isn't a bathroom/ shower house yet so we ask that you bring a port-a-pot of some sort. We're constantly making upgrades to the Ranch so we hope you enjoy your stay. Please refrain from feeding the horses or dogs because it creates a bad habit and folks that don't know how sensitive a horses gut is can possibly kill them. Respect privacy of others and pack out all that you pack in. Shut any gates you come through.please understand that my horses are of all ages and that includes young ones and babies and seniors as well. The young ones like to be nosey and are still learning what they are allowed to do and what not to do. They are naturally curious and love attention. If they think you have snacks , they can act like a pack of kindergarteners with the promise of cupcakes...we don't want that but because some campers think they are the exception and gave them snacks, it is something we have to monitor more closely. Remember they are animals and they will get into anything if it's left unattended. Please be a responsible camper and ensure we all stay safe and enjoy the experience.We have a section for folks to park in if they do not want to be so close to the horses as well. If you don't like horses or dogs please consider alternative camp site. Limited pet allowance...check before booking please. Also, we've had issues with the site and it offering horse time, ride, Q&A etc. for 5$. We've taken steps to fix this. But if you would like something like that it would be through the Ranch directly and as our time allows. Thank you for taking the time to read everything as well.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(22)

The Harrican

7 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · KY
Learn more about this land:This is a beautiful 200 acre farm that has been in my family for over 100 years. My father (at age 93) still harvests hay on 100 of the acres twice annually. Primitive campsites range from soft and scenic rolling fields with mountainous backdrops to completely wooded areas with the wild Rockastle River within 1 mile from the property. Discover a rare campsite available between two cliffs that the Native Americans originally called home. It remains just as they found it. There is an easily accessible large flat cliff area perfect for multiple tents and campfires! However, if a little more comfort is your style, you can unplug and unwind in a two story cabin located on a beautiful and secluded 2 acre pond with a dock and pier that can be reserved for $85 nightly. I classify the Lakehouse Cabin as primitive glamping! Wildlife is present every single day! We are near two Wildlife management reserve areas and completely surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forrest. Deer, turkey and so much more can be observed daily in their natural habitat. This is truly an amazing and rare gem right here in our beloved Bluegrass State!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$28
 / night
89%
(35)

Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, IN
Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. A firewood bundle is included and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill, tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$25
 / night

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Kentucky with swimming guide

Overview

Looking to dive into a refreshing swimming experience? Hipcamp has you covered with over 1,200 camping options in Kentucky that offer swimming. Whether you're a fan of lakes, rivers, or swimming holes, you're sure to find the perfect spot to take a dip. And with prices starting as low as $12 per night, you won't have to break the bank to enjoy your aquatic adventure. Check out top-rated campsites like Hidden Lake Farm (359 reviews), Hones Pointe (352 reviews), and Patrick's Point River Camp (263 reviews) for a swim-worthy experience. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and campfires. And if you're up for more than just swimming, activities like surfing, hiking, and horseback riding are also available at select campgrounds. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to make a splash!

Top regions in and near Kentucky

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

© 2025 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.