Houchin Ferry Campground
3.9796 reviewsHouchin Ferry Campground, Houchin Ferry Rd., Brownsville, KY 42210
Houchin Ferry Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
The nightly rate for primitive sites is $20. For reservations, additional service fees may apply: $8 if made online or through the app, $9 if made through the contact center, $3 if made in-person.
About this campground
Nestled along the meandering banks of the Green River, Houchin Ferry Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Mammoth Cave National Park. This hidden gem features 12 secluded tent-only sites, each enveloped by a canopy of aromatic cedars and hardwoods that whisper in the breeze. Here, anglers cast their lines into the emerald waters while paddlers glide past in canoes, and the morning air fills with the melodic calls of countless bird species. This primitive sanctuary invites you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's timeless rhythms.
Houchin Ferry Campground is designed for primitive, tent-only camping. Group, RV, or luxury camping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceYour tent sits within the boundaries of one of the world's most extraordinary natural wonders—Mammoth Cave National Park, where beneath your feet stretches the planet's longest known cave system. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve has captivated explorers for over 4,000 years, from ancient Native Americans who ventured into its depths to modern-day spelunkers still discovering new passages. The Green River that flows past your campsite has carved this remarkable landscape over millions of years, creating not just the famous cave system but also the scenic valley where you'll make your temporary home.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the campground's changing moods throughout the year as each season paints the landscape with its own distinct palette. Winter transforms the area into a serene wonderland where frost-kissed mornings give way to crisp, star-filled nights perfect for solitary reflection. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and gentle temperatures that beckon campers outdoors. Summer brings warm days ideal for river adventures, though you'll share the experience with more fellow nature enthusiasts. Fall arrives in a spectacular display of amber and crimson foliage, offering perhaps the most magical camping conditions with comfortable days and cool, campfire-perfect evenings.
ElevationThe campground rests gently in the embrace of the Green River valley, where the ancient waterway has carved its patient path through the Kentucky landscape. This riverside setting places you at the perfect vantage point to experience both the flowing waters and the rising hills that define this remarkable region.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a symphony of nature as morning mist rises from the Green River, revealing a landscape that seems painted by master artists. Towering hardwoods and evergreens create a living cathedral above your campsite, their branches home to wild turkeys that announce the dawn. The undulating hills surrounding the campground showcase Kentucky's signature rolling topography, while the river itself becomes a highway for wildlife—watch for deer coming to drink at twilight or the occasional coyote's silhouette against the sunset. This pristine ecosystem offers an immersive wilderness experience where every moment brings a new discovery, from the splash of a jumping fish to the rustle of leaves revealing a passing woodland creature.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the geological wonderland of the Green River Valley, where your campground serves as a gateway to understanding millions of years of Earth's history. The surrounding Kentucky hillsides, cloaked in dense forests, hide one of the planet's most spectacular secrets—the vast Mammoth Cave system that honecombs the limestone bedrock beneath. This karst landscape, sculpted by water over eons, creates a unique ecosystem where surface streams suddenly vanish into the earth and emerge miles away, where sinkholes dot the forest floor like nature's own sculptures, and where the very ground beneath your tent holds passages that have never seen sunlight. The Green River continues its ancient work, slowly but persistently carving ever deeper into the landscape, ensuring that this dynamic geological story continues to unfold.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not have ADA accessible campsites. Sites are on unimproved ground with gravel-paved approaches and are not wheelchair friendly.
Sites SizeSites are relatively small, and visitors have noted that some are on uneven or sloped terrain. Larger tents may have difficulty fitting at certain sites.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are closely spaced, with minimal privacy. Visitors frequently mentioned that neighbors are within approximately 10-20 feet.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites #9, #10 for more privacy and shaded areas. Avoid sites near the entrance for reduced noise and traffic.
Best CampsitesSites #8, #9, and #10 are highly recommended for their shade and proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. Maximum 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 persons per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campsites are arranged in a 'J' shape, with sites #1-8 nearest the river and more open, while sites #9-12 are tucked into the trees and offer more shade and seclusion.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a reservation-only basis; walk-up availability is not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of scheduled arrival for a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee and the first night's recreation use fee if canceled late. Changes to reservation dates outside of the original stay incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations occur starting from midnight 1 calendar day before the scheduled check-in.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The Houchin Ferry Campground provides opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and stargazing. Nearby, guests can enjoy hiking and biking trails within Mammoth Cave National Park.
Hiking
While there are no trails directly accessible from the campground, hiking opportunities are available within Mammoth Cave National Park. Visitors must travel a short distance to access trails.Fishing
Fishing is permitted on the Green River, which is adjacent to the campground. Anglers may enjoy serene riverfront views while fishing.Biking
Miles of biking trails are available within Mammoth Cave National Park. Visitors must travel to the main park areas to access these trails.Boating
The Green River offers canoeing and kayaking opportunities. There is a boat ramp at the campground for launching watercraft.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, turkeys, coyotes, and various bird species can be observed in the area.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can plan tours of Mammoth Cave, the world's longest cave system, which depart from the Visitor Center.Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible, and the campground remains open year-round. Visitors have noted that it offers a quiet experience during less crowded months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular on the Green River adjacent to the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are restricted to provided fire rings. Use only dead and down wood for fires.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are common and can spread diseases. Visitors must observe fire warnings and regulations. Wildlife includes deer, coyotes, and stray dogs. Roads leading to the campground are narrow and hilly, posing challenges for RVs and trailers.
Active alertsThe Green River Ferry is temporarily closed due to extensive flooding damage as of April 2025. Repairs are expected to take several months.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
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
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services can be reached at Mammoth Cave National Park Visitor Center (15 miles away). Hospitals and police stations are located in nearby towns such as Brownsville and Cave City.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities at the campground. Visitors are expected to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresSites are located on the south bank of the Green River, offering access for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Common complaintsMany reviews mention the small campsite sizes and lack of privacy, with neighbors often within 10 feet. Noise from locals and visitors and lack of ranger presence are common issues. Porta-potties are noted to be clean but occasionally too full.
HostUnstaffed campground. For general information, call 270-758-2424.
Campground Map
Houchin Ferry Campground, Houchin Ferry Rd., Brownsville, KY 42210
Driving directionsFrom the North: Take Interstate 65 to Exit 53 (Cave City Exit). Turn right onto KY-70. Follow 70/255, about 4 miles. Turn left on 255 just before entering the park, follow this to Brownsville Rd. Turn left and follow this all the way until it ends at Hwy-101. Turn right, go about a quarter mile to Houchin Ferry Rd. (Minit Mart on corner), turn right and follow this to campground. From the South: Take Interstate 65 to Exit 48 (Park City Exit). Turn left onto KY-255 and follow this into the park. When you come to the stop sign, turn left and follow this to Brownsville Rd. Turn left and follow this all the way until it ends at Hwy-101. Turn right, go about a quarter mile to Houchin Ferry Rd. (Minit Mart on corner), turn right and follow this to campground.
The campground is accessible via narrow and hilly roads. The last mile or so leading to the campground is particularly narrow and challenging. Visitors are advised not to rely solely on GPS systems, as routes can be misleading and incorrect.Nearby places
Brownsville (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Cave City (approximately 20 minutes drive), Mammoth Cave Visitor Center (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
A grocery store and gas station are located about 5 minutes away in Brownsville. Additionally, firewood can be purchased from a house just outside the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.0
96 reviews
Houchin Ferry Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Houchin Ferry Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment of 3.82. While some visitors appreciate the peaceful, primitive setting and proximity to the river, others have raised concerns about the small campsite sizes, lack of privacy, and issues with locals or noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 96 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors have praised the picturesque riverfront setting and quiet, natural atmosphere. The campground's primitive style appeals to those seeking a simple and remote experience. Clean portable...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the close proximity of campsites leading to a lack of privacy, noisy neighbors, and disturbances from locals using the area at night. Other issues include overgrown grass,...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend booking sites farthest from the entrance (e.g., sites 9 or 10) for greater privacy and shade. Bringing extra supplies such as disinfectant wipes for the portable toilets, a water...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is particularly quiet during winter months, with fewer visitors and a tranquil atmosphere. However, during summer, it can become crowded and noisy due to the closely spaced sites.
Based on 96 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The port o’ potties were very clean, to the point of zero gross smells (a first in my experience).' - Jay J.
2. 'Sites are extremely small and close together. I could hear my neighbors snoring.'...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 9 and 10 were highlighted as the best for privacy and shade. Visitors noted that sites 1-8, closer to the river, are more open and less private.
Based on 96 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no ADA accessible campsites. Visitors with mobility challenges may find the unimproved ground and gravel-paved approaches difficult to navigate.
Based on 96 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, although some visitors expressed concerns about unleashed dogs causing disturbances. 'Another camper's dog kept coming over to our lot and jumping up on our tent.' - Emily T.
Based on 96 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025