Barren Fork Horse Campground
In Whitley City, Kentucky
Guide to Amenities and Trails
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| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Whitley City, Kentucky GPS: 36.773602, -84.468673 Elevation: 1254′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – USDA Forest Service (Official) Price is $8/1 day/site — $12/2 days/site $100 Annual Pass (ranger office) |
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Previous Reviews:
Barren Fork Horse Campground: The campground offers 41 campsites that accommodate horse trailers and RVs up to 35 feet. Barren Fork Horse Camp is open April 1 to Nov. 15. The Barren Fork Horse Camp, located on Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest, is a popular campground for horseback riders who enjoy the forest setting. Several interconnecting trails provide miles of riding pleasure.
About This Location
Looking for a quiet spot to camp with your horse or RV near Whitley City Kentucky? Barren Fork Horse Campground might just be the place. This spot has 41 sites that can fit horse trailers and RVs up to 35 feet, so you probably won’t have to worry about squeezing in.
Tucked inside Daniel Boone National Forest, the campground sits close to the Stearns Ranger District Office. It’s got easy access to trails and natural gems, with Cumberland Falls State Park only a short drive away.
You’ll get simple, no-nonsense amenities here—just what you need for a weekend outside. There’s nothing fancy, but honestly, sometimes that’s better.
Whether you’re itching to explore the woods on horseback or just want a peaceful camping trip, Barren Fork Horse Campground strikes a nice balance. It’s a solid base if you’re hoping to see Kentucky’s scenic side from a spot that’s friendly to both horses and campers.
Barren Fork Horse Campground In Whitley City, Kentucky
Barren Fork Horse Campground sits near Whitley City Kentucky, inside Daniel Boone National Forest. It’s designed especially for folks who want to camp with their horses.
You’ll find it just off Barren Fork Road, not far from US Highway 27. The place has 41 campsites, many of them roomy enough for horse trailers and RVs up to 35 feet.
Each site comes with the basics: fire grates, lantern holders, and picnic tables. Vault toilets are on-site, and there’s a watering pond for your horses.
A web of horse trails winds through the surrounding forest. That’s a big draw for trail riders, honestly.
Barren Fork Horse Campground prices are reasonable—about $8 per night. There are options for longer stays and even an annual pass if you’re planning to come back a lot.
Important details at a glance:
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Whitley City, KY |
| Number of campsites | 41 |
| Trailer/RV length max | 35 feet |
| Amenities | Fire grates, picnic tables |
| Facilities | Vault toilets, watering pond |
| Nightly cost | $8 |
| Annual pass | $100 |
Directions
If you’re coming from Somerset, head south on US 27. Stay on that road for about 22 miles until you see the Stearns Ranger District Office.
The Barren Fork Horse Campground is just past that office. Coming from Whitley City, you’ll want to take US 27 north.
Drive about 3.7 miles to the Stearns Ranger District Office, then look for Barren Fork Road (#684). The campground is about a mile past the office, tucked off that road.
Keep an eye out for the turnoff onto Barren Fork Road. The entrance is near the old coal mining town, which is kind of interesting if you like a bit of history with your camping.
Signs are posted, so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding the place. The road’s decent for trailers and RVs up to 35 feet—nothing too wild.
Here’s a quick travel guide for reference:
| Starting Point | Route | Distance to Campground |
|---|---|---|
| Somerset, KY | US 27 South | 22 miles |
| Whitley City, KY | US 27 North | 3.7 miles |
The Stearns Ranger District Office is your main landmark. Once you spot it, you’re almost to Barren Fork Horse Campground.
Vehicle Access And Pricing
You can reach Barren Fork Horse Campground from Whitley City Kentucky. From the intersection of US Route 27 and State Route 700, just head north on US 27 for about a mile and a half.
Keep an eye out for the sign to Barren Fork Horse Camp off Forest Road 684. The road itself is fine for standard vehicles, and folks with trailers should have no trouble.
The campground can handle RVs up to 35 feet, which is pretty generous. Horse trailers are welcome, too, so no worries if you’re bringing your four-legged pals along.
The Barren Fork Horse Campground layout is straightforward and meant for easy access, especially if you’re towing. No need to stress about tight turns or awkward parking.
Pricing here is, honestly, refreshingly reasonable. Here’s the fee structure:
| Stay Duration | Price |
|---|---|
| Per day | $8 per site |
| Two days | $12 per site |
| Annual Pass | $100 (available at the ranger office) |
There aren’t any reservations—it’s strictly first-come, first-served. Usually, you’ll pay right there when you arrive at Barren Fork Horse Campground.
You’ll find basic amenities like a picnic shelter and restrooms. It’s a pay campground, but the cost is on the low side compared to most.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice for camping, with or without horses, this spot is worth a look.
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| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Drinking Water Horse Corral Near Water Picnic Tables Restrooms |
RV Camping Tent Camping Fishing Hiking Horse Trails Wildlife Viewing |
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