Kentucky is a beautiful state and one of the best ways to experience it is by camping. More specifically, there’s nothing like free camping in Kentucky. While most campgrounds require advanced planning and reservations, there are a few places throughout the state that allow for those last-minute camping trips that you just have to take. And since any season provides a great opportunity for camping in Kentucky, now is the time to check out these five glorious destinations in Kentucky that are not only some of the best places to go camping in Kentucky but also require no reservation. Some of these campgrounds may require a fee to camp, but generally speaking, they're usually great spots to pull up with no notice.

1. Great Meadows Campground - Address: Rock Creek-Fireroad 137 Road, Stearns, KY, 42647

With spots located on both sides of Rock Creek Fireroad 137, you have some room here to spread out at Great Meadows Campground. The campsites have accessible vault toilets, picnic tables, horse shoe pits, and drinking water available. (Editor's Note: S-Tree Campground now requires a $10-15 fee for camping.)

2. S-Tree Campground - Address: Tussey Hill Road, McKee, KY, 40447

S-Tree Campground is easily one of the best places to go camping in Kentucky. Located near the popular Sheltowee Trace trail, S-Tree is the perfect campsite for hikers and travelers alike. The 20 sites sit on a ridge and each have a picnic table, tent pad, fire ring and lantern pole. There is no electricity or dump station available, but there are vault toilets centrally located. (Editor's Note: S-Tree Campground now requires a $15 fee for camping.)

3. Turkey Foot Campground - Address: Forest Service Road 345, McKee, KY, 40447

Turkey Foot Campground, located along the War Fork Creek in Daniel Boone National Forest is a heavily wooded area, ideal for a rustic, quiet retreat. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, tent pad, and lantern pole. It is important to keep in mind that the road into the sites is steep and may not be suitable for larger RVs.

4. Mauzy Lake Campground - Address: GPS: 37.615032, -87.856522

Along Mauzy Lake, south of Morganfield, you'll find 10-15 free camp sites that will fit everything from a tent to a large RV. There are not many amenities—only portable toilets—but it's a quiet, serene area and the lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing. Be sure to check out the video below for a closer look at this lovely campground—no reservations required! Visit the Mauzy Lake Campground page on the Union County website.

https://youtu.be/9o-TAgnSk40

Quick Hits: Camping in Kentucky:

What are some of the best campgrounds in Kentucky? Kentucky offers countless options for camping adventures! We featured some of the free campgrounds in the state in this article, but that's just the beginning. Kentucky's state parks are a wonderful option when planning a family camping trip, and we particularly love Cumberland Falls State Resort Park for its range of options. If you want to be right on the water, consider Axtel Campground at Rough River Lake for scenic campsites and plenty of amenities.

Are you allowed to camp in state parks? Absolutely! Kentucky's state parks have designated areas for RV camping, as well as primitive setups. State park camping is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Kentucky, and you can find everything from a cabin in the woods to a secluded campsite that's all your own.

What are some of the things I need to take on a camping trip? The answer to this question depends on what type of camping you're planning. If you're setting up a tent, be sure to have everything you need in case of rain or harsh weather. Garbage bags, bug spray, sunscreen, water, matches, and flashlights (with extra batteries!) are also a must.

There is nothing quite like camping in Kentucky! These 4 no-reservation campgrounds in Kentucky are great for family camping, making memories, and exploring our beautiful state on a whim. Have you tried any of these Kentucky campgrounds? All are on a first-come, first served basis, so keep that in mind! Are there any other campgrounds in Kentucky that you’ve enjoyed where no reservation was required? Let us know!

Check out these unique Kentucky getaways for some more inspiration. If you want to take your camping to the next level, check out our friends at RVShare. You can rent an RV and see if it's a lifestyle you could see yourself in!