Chimney Top Rock Campground 1
In Pine Ridge, Kentucky
Guide to Camping and Outdoor Activities
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| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Pine Ridge, Kentucky GPS: 37.79014, -83.610367 Elevation: 1188′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service (Official) The price is $3-$5 |
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Previous Reviews:
Chimney Top Rock Campground 1: Campsites are along the 3.5 mile road to Chimney Rock. You need to park your vehicle on the edge of the road and haul your gear 300+ ft to the actual camping location. Campsites we saw all had fire rings.
About This Location
If you’re after a quiet spot to camp close to one of Kentucky’s most stunning natural wonders, Chimney Top Rock Campground 1 in Pine Ridge might just hit the mark. It sits right by the famous Chimney Top Rock Trail, where the hiking’s easy and the views of the Red River Gorge are honestly pretty breathtaking.
Chimney Top Rock Campground 1 lets you wander straight out to scenic overlooks and nearby arches. It’s simple, nothing fancy, but the location is hard to beat if you’re hoping to stay near must-see spots like Sky Bridge or Rock Bridge.
You’re tucked away among cliffs and forest, so it feels peaceful—almost like you’ve got your own slice of the Gorge. It works for both the casual camper and anyone itching for a longer hiking adventure. Whether it’s a quick getaway or you’re planning to stick around, there’s a nice mix of convenience and natural beauty here.
Chimney Top Rock Campground 1 In Pine Ridge Kentucky
When you roll into Pine Ridge Kentucky, you can camp at Chimney Top Rock Campground 1. It’s just a stone’s throw from Chimney Top Rock itself, which draws hikers and folks looking to soak up nature. Trails and outdoor activities are right at your doorstep.
This area’s got a reputation for its peaceful vibe and seriously pretty surroundings. You’ll find campsites that work for tents and smaller campers—nothing too crowded, and there’s enough space between sites to keep things quiet.
Here’s a quick look at what the campground offers:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Chimney Top Rock, Pine Ridge |
| Site Type | Tent and small camper sites |
| Nearby Activity | Hiking, nature walks |
| Accessibility | Easy trail access |
You can head out for short hikes on the nearby trails, no problem. The Chimney Top Trail itself is only about 0.7 miles—super manageable, and you’ll probably finish it in under 20 minutes if you’re just out for a stroll.
If you’re after a calm spot in the Red River Gorge, this place is worth considering. It’s smart to check availability ahead of time, especially when it’s peak season.
Directions
To get to Chimney Top Rock Campground in Pine Ridge Kentucky, you’ll want to start by finding Sky Bridge Road (Ky 715). From there, just turn onto Chimney Top Rock Road—pretty straightforward. That road takes you right up to the parking lot near the campground area.
If you’re coming from inside Red River Gorge, just follow the signs for Pine Ridge. The campground’s close to a few landmarks, so you shouldn’t have much trouble spotting the signs for Chimney Top Rock.
When you’re driving out that way, keep an eye on the road conditions—and maybe check for any local traffic updates. Using GPS or a map app with live traffic isn’t a bad idea, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.
Here’s a quick step-by-step:
| Step | Directions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start on Sky Bridge Road (Ky 715) |
| 2 | Turn onto Chimney Top Rock Road |
| 3 | Follow the road to the parking area |
Once you’re at the parking lot, it’s easy to reach the campground and the nearby hiking trails. The area’s got plenty of markers and signs, so you probably won’t get lost.
It’s always a good plan to check the current road and weather conditions before you head out. The drive’s usually smooth, but you never know what Kentucky weather will throw your way.
Vehicle Access And Pricing
When you pull up to Chimney Top Rock Campground in Pine Ridge Kentucky, you’ll find yourself navigating a 3.5-mile stretch of unpaved road. It’s full of potholes and random bumps, so honestly, take it slow—nobody wants to blow a tire before pitching a tent.
Parking is right along the edge of the road, pretty close to the campsite. After that, you’ll need to haul your gear about 300 feet to the camping area. Not the worst walk, but definitely something to be ready for if you’ve overpacked.
The campground’s pretty easy on the wallet, charging anywhere from $3 to $5 per night. In terms of affordable options near the rock formations, it’s hard to argue with that kind of price.
It’s worth noting, this spot is really geared toward folks with smaller vehicles or anyone who’s fine carrying their stuff a short distance. If you’re rolling up in a big RV or hauling a trailer, you might have a tough time getting in—those road conditions and limited parking aren’t exactly forgiving.
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| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Fire Rings | Tent Camping – Hike In Wildlife Viewing Stargazing |
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