Daniel Boone National Forest — Redbird District Road Corridor Dispersed Camp

The Redbird Ranger District of Daniel Boone National Forest covers some of the most rugged, overlooked terrain in eastern Kentucky. Dispersed camping is permitted throughout the district on National Forest land, typically along the network of Forest Service roads that thread through steep-sided hollows and ridge tops. You’re looking at dense second-growth hardwood, creek-bottom flats, and the kind of quiet that only exists when you’re well off any state highway. No sites are signed or designated — you find a flat spot off the road, set up, and leave it better than you found it.

Access is via KY-66 and the Forest Service road network south of Big Creek. High-clearance is recommended; many FR spurs turn rough and rutted after rain. No water, no toilets, no trash service — pack it in, pack it out. Fire restrictions apply during dry spells — check the Stearns/Redbird Ranger District office before you roll. Best from late spring through fall before leaf drop turns the mud season loose.

Free dispersed camping in the Kentucky Highlands.