Carter Caves State Resort Park
00 review344 Caveland Drive, Olive Hill , Kentucky, 41164, United States
Carter Caves State Resort Park
$25.00 - $100.00 / 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
Golf cart permits are $25 for a week or $100 for the calendar year. Cabins and cottages reservations require calling the park directly, while bunkhouses must be reserved through Reserve America Customer Service line.
About this campground
Step into a world of underground wonders and outdoor adventure at Carter Caves State Resort Park, where limestone labyrinths meet forested trails in perfect harmony. Whether you're descending into mysterious caverns on guided tours, scaling rock faces with the morning mist at your back, or paddling through serene waters, this Kentucky gem delivers experiences that resonate long after you've returned home. From twilight glow golf sessions to sweet summer ice cream socials, the park weaves together natural exploration with family-friendly festivities throughout the seasons.
Carter Caves State Resort Park provides a variety of camping options, from primitive and backcountry sites to full-hookup RV sites.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through these ancient hollows, where Saltpeter Cave stands as a testament to the region's mining heritage. Early settlers once harvested minerals from these depths, leaving behind stories etched in stone and memory. The park's charming lodge, with its timeless architecture and welcoming atmosphere, serves as a bridge between past and present, offering modern comfort while honoring the traditions of Appalachian hospitality.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Carter Caves in its own distinctive palette. Summer days warm to the pleasant 80s, perfect for cave tours that offer cool underground respite. Autumn transforms the hillsides into a tapestry of gold and crimson that draws leaf-peepers from across the region. Spring awakens the trails with wildflowers and rushing streams, while winter brings a crystalline beauty to the landscape, with temperatures that can dip below freezing, creating magical ice formations in the cave entrances.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain unrecorded in official documentation, visitors experience the park's varied topography through its rolling hills, deep valleys, and dramatic cave entrances that invite exploration at every turn.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has sculpted a masterpiece at Carter Caves, where forested hills shelter more than 20 caverns adorned with underground waterfalls and cathedral-like chambers. Ancient natural stone bridges span verdant valleys, creating picture-perfect vistas that inspire awe in every visitor. White-tailed deer graze in meadow clearings at dawn, while colonies of bats perform their evening aerial ballet. These amazing natural formations create a landscape so striking that visitors consistently find themselves reaching for cameras to capture the beauty that surrounds them at every bend in the trail.
Geological RegionNestled within a remarkable karst landscape, Carter Caves showcases over 20 caverns carved by centuries of water through limestone bedrock. Cascade Cave enchants with its flowing stone formations, while X Cave dazzles visitors with luminous mineral deposits and delicate stone fans that seem to defy gravity. The terrain's dramatic vertical relief creates natural climbing walls and rappelling opportunities, where adventurers can test their mettle against the same forces that shaped these geological wonders over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityGolf carts are allowed in the campground with a permit ($25 for a week, $100 annually, free for disabled guests with proper tags).
Sites SizeSites range from small to large, but some RV sites have hookups that are far from parking areas. Users recommend bringing extension cords and hoses.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited as many sites are close together. However, some outer edge sites are described as woodsy and more private.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests are advised to check site layouts for hookups and water distances. Some sites require long power cords and hoses. Visitors recommend bringing blocks for leveling at uneven sites.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite numbers are not highlighted as best, though reviews suggest outer edge sites offer more privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not specified.
Check-out
Check-out times are not specified.
Stay Limit
The authoritative content does not mention a maximum consecutive night stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest numbers are not provided in the authoritative content.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are described as close together by several user reviews, and outer edge sites are noted as woodsy and larger.
Open and Closed SeasonAvailable year-round, though some facilities, like water supply and bathhouses, may have seasonal closures. For example, one user review noted the campground had no water in the off-season but had electricity available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for cabins and cottages must be made by calling the park directly, while bunkhouses require contacting Reserve America Customer Service line.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe authoritative content does not specify walk-up availability, but user reviews indicate flexibility in accommodating campers arriving early, depending on site availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not stated explicitly in the authoritative content or reviews.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a diverse range of activities, including hiking, cave exploration, boating, fishing, swimming, biking, and wildlife viewing. Seasonal and special events like glow golf, haunted trails, and instructional programs add to the variety.
Hiking
The park has over 30 miles of trails, with varying difficulty levels from easy to challenging. Notable trails include the Four Cs Trail and the Three Bridges Trail. Trails are generally well-marked, but one user noted mileage discrepancies.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is available in the park's small lake and nearby rivers. Specific types of fish are not mentioned, but the area is suitable for casual fishing.Swimming
Swimming is available in a large outdoor pool, which is free for cabin guests. However, some users noted the pool can be cold, and the diving board area is closed.Biking
20 miles of mountain biking trails are available, suitable for various skill levels.Boating
Boating activities include canoeing and kayaking on the park's lake and rivers. Rentals are available on-site.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are common, especially deer in the valley, and bats in the caves during certain seasons.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers guided cave tours, historical programs, and seasonal events like the Haunted Trail and Easter Weekend Getaway.Winter Activities
Minimal winter activities. The park remains open for camping, but some facilities are limited during the off-season.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood policy requires adherence to state guidelines, details available at https://parks.ky.gov/firewood-policy.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsSafety concerns include narrow gravel roads, steep terrain, and water hazards within caves. One user noted a trail section smelled like a septic system due to water runoff.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Emergency Services
Within the facility: emergency services such as first aid supplies and a hospital are listed. Further details on external emergency services are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly mentioned, though activities and full services appear to be more active in late spring, summer, and early fall.
Trash and recyclingDumpster facilities are available on-site, but specific details on recycling services are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe park includes a small lake for fishing, streams, and underground waterfalls within caves.
Common complaintsReviews mention tightly packed campsites, outdated lodge facilities, inconsistent water pressure, and maintenance staff being rude at times.
HostUser reviews praise the camp host as helpful and approachable, though no authoritative host contact details are provided.
Campground Map
344 Caveland Drive, Olive Hill , Kentucky, 41164, United States
Driving directionsTake I-64 to exit 161. Turn EAST onto US 60 for 2 miles. Then turn left onto NORTH KY Route 182. Park Entrance is 3 miles from turning north onto Rt. 182.
Access to the park from major roads includes paved routes. However, some reviewers warned about GPS navigation leading to rough gravel roads, especially if pulling a camper. One user review stated: 'Be warned if you are taking a camper to check Google Maps or a map first so that you don't get taken that direction.' Seasonal closures or access updates are not mentioned in the authoritative content.Nearby places
Olive Hill (approximately 7 miles), Grayson, KY (approximately 25 minutes for supplies)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available within the park, including retail shops selling firewood, ice, snacks, and bait & tackle. For larger needs, a user review notes traveling approximately 25 minutes to Grayson, KY.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Carter Caves State Resort Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the park's natural beauty, diverse activities, and friendly staff. However, complaints include crowded sites, occasional maintenance issues, and inconsistent cell service.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciated the well-maintained trails, scenic caves, and the variety of activities. The lodge's restaurant received praise for its food quality and reasonable pricing. Cabins were described...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include crowded and closely spaced campsites, low water pressure in bathrooms, and outdated facilities in the lodge. Some users also mentioned rude maintenance staff and limited...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own extension cords and water hoses for RV hookups. Closed-toed shoes are recommended for cave tours, and visitors should call ahead to confirm cave tour availability. The park is best...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most recommended seasons due to comfortable temperatures and vibrant natural scenery. Summer is popular but can be crowded, while winter offers solitude but limited facilities.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Could spend a couple weeks there and still not hike all the trails.' - Jasper Clayton. 2. 'The hiking trails were in good condition, well marked.' - Jessica Robinson. 3. 'Sites are close...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #88 was noted to need more grass. Outer edge sites are larger and more private. Sites with sewer are only on the outer loop.
Accessibility Features
Golf cart access with proper permits is a notable feature for disabled guests.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome on trails but not allowed in caves.
Last updated August 10, 2025