S-Tree Campground
4.6242 reviewsUS Forest Service/US Army Corps of Engineers Resource Managers Office KY-1193 London, KY 40744
S-Tree Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required for this campground.
About this campground
Perched high on a forested ridge above the winding Horse Lick Creek, S-Tree Campground offers adventurers a true back-to-nature experience in the heart of Daniel Boone National Forest. This primitive mountaintop retreat has become a beloved basecamp for OHV enthusiasts who come to explore the surrounding trail networks. Each wooded campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with the essentials—a sturdy picnic table, fire ring with grill grate, level tent pad, and traditional lantern pole—creating the perfect blend of rustic charm and practical comfort. The centerpiece of the campground is a beautifully preserved 1930s stone picnic shelter, a testament to the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps workers who helped shape these forests. Modern vault toilets provide necessary facilities while maintaining the campground's wilderness character.
S-Tree Campground offers primitive camping for tents and small RVs, with first-come, first-served availability. It is particularly popular among OHV enthusiasts due to its proximity to motorized trail systems.
Historical SignificanceS-Tree Campground stands as a living museum of America's conservation legacy. The magnificent stone picnic shelter, meticulously constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, serves as both a functional gathering space and a monument to the young men who helped restore America's forests during the Great Depression. The campground takes its name from the historic S-Tree Fire Tower that once stood sentinel over these ridges, where dedicated fire spotters kept vigilant watch over the forest canopy. Though the tower has long since vanished, its legacy lives on in the campground's name and the stories shared around evening campfires.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through November, S-Tree Campground showcases the full spectrum of Appalachian seasons. Early spring arrives with crisp mornings that may still carry winter's bite, gradually warming as wildflowers carpet the forest floor. Summer transforms the ridge into a leafy sanctuary where humid days give way to cool mountain evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. As autumn approaches, the surrounding hardwoods burst into a spectacular display of reds, oranges, and golds, while temperatures begin their gentle descent, reminding late-season campers to pack extra layers for those chilly November nights.
ElevationAt 1,440 feet above sea level, S-Tree Campground commands an impressive position along the ridge tops of eastern Kentucky. This elevated perch not only provides natural cooling during summer months but also offers campers a true mountaintop experience. The altitude creates a unique microclimate where morning mists often linger in the valleys below while the campground basks in early sunlight, and evening breezes carry the fresh scent of the surrounding forest canopy.
Natural Features and SceneryEnveloped by a cathedral of mature hardwood trees, S-Tree Campground immerses visitors in the pristine beauty of old-growth Appalachian forest. Towering oaks, maples, and hickories create a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns across the forest floor. The ridge-top location provides glimpses through the trees to the Horse Lick Creek valley below, where the ancient waterway has carved its path through countless centuries. This untouched woodland setting offers campers an authentic primitive camping experience, where the sounds of civilization fade away, replaced by rustling leaves, bird songs, and the occasional call of wild turkey echoing through the hollows.
Geological RegionS-Tree Campground occupies a strategic position atop one of the many ridges that define the rugged topography of Daniel Boone National Forest. This ancient landscape, carved by Horse Lick Creek and its tributaries over millions of years, showcases the region's characteristic sandstone geology. The ridge system creates a dramatic terrain of steep slopes and narrow valleys, all blanketed in the diverse hardwood forests that have reclaimed this land. The campground's location perfectly captures the essence of Kentucky's Cumberland Plateau, where weathered ridges and deep hollows create endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not meet accessibility standards for persons with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are gravel-filled and can accommodate tents and smaller RVs up to 25 feet in length.
Sites PrivacySites are wooded and spaced apart, offering some level of privacy between campsites.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 1-10 are more accessible for RVs under 25 feet. Sites 11-20 have narrow, steep access roads better suited for tent camping.
Best CampsitesCampsite #10 is highly praised in user reviews for being spacious and quiet.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Open 24 hours/day
- no specified check-in time.
Check-out
- Open 24 hours/day
- no specified check-out time.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The number of guests per site is not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features two loops: Sites 1-10 in one loop, and Sites 11-20 in the other. Loop B is closed for reconstruction.
Open and Closed SeasonApril 8 through November 21.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms available; camping is free and first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 20 campsites are open for walk-up, first-come, first-served access.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not required; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
S-Tree Campground caters primarily to off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, with direct access to the Renfro Loop Trail and Sheltowee Trace Trail Section #25. Additional recreational options include picnicking at the historic shelter, hiking, and wildlife observation in the dense hardwood forest.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail (269 miles) and the Renfro Loop Trail (4.3 miles), which supports motorized vehicles less than 50 inches wide, mountain biking, and foot travel.Biking
The Renfro Loop Trail and Sheltowee Trace Trail support mountain biking. Terrain is rugged, with some trails requiring advanced skill levels due to maintenance challenges.Wildlife viewing
The mature hardwood forest surrounding the campground offers opportunities to observe local wildlife species.Winter Activities
Limited; the campground is open year-round, but reviews and descriptions do not specify winter recreation activities.Water Sports
None. The campground does not provide facilities or access for kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed; each site has a fire ring.
Hazards
General hazardsRoads leading to the campground are narrow and steep, and potholes may pose challenges. Wildlife-related risks are not specified.
Active alertsLoop B is closed for reconstruction.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
London Ranger District Office, US Forest Service, KY-1193, London, KY 40744.
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely aligns with the open season (April 8 through November 21).
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available; campers must pack out what they pack in.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Horse Lick Creek.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention noise from OHVs and ATVs, as well as poor maintenance of trails and occasional trash left by campers.
HostNo campground host is mentioned.
Campground Map
US Forest Service/US Army Corps of Engineers Resource Managers Office KY-1193 London, KY 40744
Driving directionsFrom Berea: travel east on KY 21E (Chestnut/Big Hill Road) for approximately 5 miles until it ends at US 421. Turn right (south) on US 421. Take US 421 west for approximately 18 miles to McKee KY, then turn right (south) on KY 89 for 3 miles, make a slight right (west) on Forest Service Road 43 (S-Tree Road). Go 1 mile, turn left (south) on Forest Service Road 20 (Tussey Hill Road) and follow the signs. From McKee: Take US 421 west from McKee for 0.5 mile. Turn left (south) on KY 89 for 3 miles, make a slight right (west) on Forest Service Road 43 (S-Tree Road). Go 1 mile, turn left (south) on Forest Service Road 20 (Tussey Hill Road) and follow the signs.
The campground cannot accommodate trailers longer than 25 feet due to one-lane roads and no turnouts. Interior access roads to sites 11 through 20 are extremely narrow and steep. RV-friendly access is available at the first right after the picnic pavilion.Nearby places
McKee (approximately 4 miles to the campground entrance via KY-89)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can likely be found in McKee, approximately 4 miles from the campground entrance.
Camper Reviews
4.6
42 reviews
S-Tree Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
S-Tree Campground receives mixed reviews, with positive feedback highlighting its scenic beauty, well-maintained vault toilets, and suitability for OHV riders. Negative feedback often centers on noise levels due to ATV traffic and lack of amenities like water or electric hookups.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is described as clean, scenic, and well-suited for dirt bike and ATV use. Many users appreciate the free camping and the spacious and wooded campsites.
Based on 42 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from ATVs, lack of potable water, and challenges with road access are common concerns. Some reviewers note the presence of homeless individuals and limited cell service as drawbacks.
Based on 42 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early on weekends to secure a spot, bringing enough water and supplies for a self-sufficient stay, and being prepared for noise from OHV traffic. Using a smaller RV or tent...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is quieter during weekdays and off-season periods but experiences heavy OHV traffic on weekends. Noise levels and site availability vary significantly by season.
Based on 42 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We dry camped because of no amenities in an RV (under 24'). Loved campsite #10 and the fire pits." - Kelly Mckiski
"It's a nice camping area but must be into dirt bikes and four-wheelers." - Valerie...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #10 is highlighted as particularly enjoyable. Sites are grouped into two loops: sites 1-10 and 11-20. Access to sites 11-20 is challenging for RVs, so smaller vehicles are recommended.
Based on 42 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground does not meet accessibility standards, and no specific feedback from users with disabilities is available.
Based on 42 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no detailed feedback or features related to pet-friendliness are mentioned.
Based on 42 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025