Buckhorn Campground
Open for the 2026 season from May 1 through September 30. Reservations available through Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance. Maximum stay 14 nights per visit. Group shelters are currently closed.
About
Buckhorn Campground on Buckhorn Lake delivers a well-rounded outdoor experience in eastern Kentucky's Cumberland Plateau. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this established campground sits near Buckhorn Dam surrounded by the rugged Appalachian Mountain landscape. The campground features approximately 37 sites including standard electric sites, tent-only walk-in sites, and unique boat-in camping options, with 28 sites offering electric and water hookups. On-site amenities cater to both tent campers and RV travelers: flush toilets, hot showers, dump station, free wireless internet, laundry facilities, and vending machines. Recreation options abound with a swimming area, boat ramp, nature trail, basketball court, playground, and horseshoe pits. Monthly interpretive programs run during summer months. Buckhorn Lake spans 1,230 surface acres fed by the Kentucky River, providing excellent fishing, boating, water skiing, and swimming. The campground is also home to the largest River Birch tree in the country, measuring 205 inches around, 117 feet high with an 85-foot crown. Nearby attractions include Carr Creek Lake, Buckhorn Log Church, Red River Gorge Geological Area, and Daniel Boone National Forest.
Directions
From Lexington, take I-64 to the Mountain Parkway. Exit at Slade, take KY 11 South through Beattyville, continue through Booneville past the courthouse to KY 28 West. Follow KY 28 about 23 miles to Buckhorn. From Hazard, take KY 15 North 9 miles to KY 28 West through Chavies, follow Highway 28 West 15 miles to Buckhorn.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | Yes |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | Yes |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $14 - $24 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 50ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 50ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (606) 398-7251 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!