Houchin Ferry Campground

About

Houchin Ferry Campground occupies a quiet, wooded site on the Green River within Mammoth Cave National Park. Once the location of a vehicle ferry crossing, the area now serves tent campers seeking a primitive riverside experience away from the busier main campground. The 12 drive-up sites offer direct views of the Green River, making this a prime spot for wildlife watching, fishing, and enjoying the sounds of the water. The campground is especially popular among paddlers. Commercial outfitters outside the park rent canoes and kayaks, and Houchin Ferry serves as a common takeout point for trips down the Green River. A temporary boat launch ramp provides river access, though conditions can be muddy. Beyond paddling, the campground offers easy access to the park's trail system and cave tours available at the Visitor Center. Amenities are basic: potable water and portable restrooms at the head of the campground, with each site equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook. Campers must collect dead and downed wood within the park or purchase firewood from the Caver's Camp Store near the Visitor Center, as outside firewood is prohibited.

Directions

From the north: Take I-65 to Exit 53 (Cave City). Turn right onto KY-70, follow 70/255 for about 4 miles, turn left on KY-255 just before entering the park, follow to Brownsville Rd, turn left and continue to Hwy-101, turn right, go about a quarter mile to Houchin Ferry Rd (Minit Mart on corner), turn right and follow to the campground. From the south: Take I-65 to Exit 48 (Park City), turn left onto KY-255 into the park, at the stop sign turn left toward Brownsville Rd, follow to Hwy-101, turn right, then right onto Houchin Ferry Rd to the campground. Do not rely exclusively on GPS or automated navigation.