Whittleton Campground

For Kentuckians eager to dive into the unparalleled natural beauty of the Red River Gorge area, Whittleton Campground in Slade stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled within the beloved Natural Bridge State Resort Park, this campground offers a classic state park camping experience with the added benefit of being a direct gateway to some of Kentucky's most iconic outdoor adventures. What truly sets Whittleton apart, beyond its prime location, is the dedication of its staff, as highlighted by glowing reviews. Campers consistently praise the helpfulness and accommodation of personnel like April, who ensures a welcoming and comfortable stay for groups and individuals alike. It's a place where the facilities are well-maintained, the trails are literally at your doorstep, and the spirit of adventure thrives, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge.

Whittleton Campground is conveniently located at 2135 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, USA. This address places it directly within Natural Bridge State Resort Park, offering unparalleled access to the park's famous geological formations and extensive trail system. For those traveling from various parts of Kentucky, the campground is easily reached via major highways. The most common route involves taking Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway (KY-POW) to Exit 33 at Slade. From there, well-marked signs guide visitors directly into Natural Bridge State Resort Park and to Whittleton Campground.

Its strategic location means that iconic attractions like the Natural Bridge Arch, accessible by several picturesque hiking trails or a scenic skylift, are just a stone's throw away. Furthermore, Whittleton serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Red River Gorge National Geological Area, renowned for its world-class rock climbing, intricate trail networks, and stunning sandstone arches. Many sites within the campground back up to a serene creek, enhancing the natural ambiance and providing a soothing soundtrack to your camping experience. The straightforward accessibility ensures that campers can spend less time navigating and more time enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and activities that the Red River Gorge region has to offer.

As a well-regarded state park campground, Whittleton offers a range of essential services designed to enhance the comfort and convenience of its campers, balancing rustic charm with necessary amenities.

• Campsites: Whittleton Campground provides 47 single-family campsites. These include sites with electric and water hookups, suitable for both RVs/trailers and tents, as well as dedicated tent-only sites. This variety accommodates different camping preferences, from those seeking more comforts to those preferring a traditional tent experience.

• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a food locker, and a fire ring with a grate. These features allow campers to enjoy outdoor meals, safely store food, and have a cozy campfire experience.

• Modern Restroom and Shower Facilities: A significant highlight, frequently praised in reviews, is the presence of clean and well-maintained permanent restroom structures. These facilities include flush toilets and hot showers, which are a highly valued comfort after a day of hiking or exploring.

• Dump Station: For RV campers, a convenient dump station is available on-site, providing a practical solution for waste disposal before departure.

• Potable Water Access: Water spigots for drinking water are accessible throughout the campground, ensuring campers have a reliable source of hydration.

• Staff Assistance: As noted by reviews, the campground personnel, like April, are highly accommodating and attentive to campers' needs, providing excellent customer service.

• Proximity to Park Amenities: Campers at Whittleton can also utilize other amenities within Natural Bridge State Resort Park, including a swimming pool (seasonal), miniature golf, a visitor center, and the Hemlock Lodge with dining options and Wi-Fi access.

• Direct Trail Access: A standout feature of Whittleton Campground is its direct access to "two different trails within the campground that are awesome." This allows campers to immediately embark on hikes without needing to drive elsewhere, enhancing the outdoor experience significantly.

• Proximity to Natural Bridge State Resort Park & Red River Gorge: The campground's location is a major draw, offering unparalleled access to both Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the expansive Red River Gorge National Geological Area. This means easy reach to iconic landmarks, world-class climbing, and an extensive network of hiking trails.

• Creekside Sites: Many campsites "backup to a creek," providing a serene natural setting with the soothing sounds of flowing water. This feature adds to the peaceful ambiance and offers opportunities for wading or simply enjoying the tranquil environment.

• Exceptional Staff and Hospitality: Reviews consistently highlight the outstanding service from campground personnel, such as April, who are praised for being accommodating and helpful. This positive human element significantly enhances the overall camping experience.

• Clean Facilities: The "decently clean" facilities, particularly the bathrooms with showers, are a key highlight, ensuring comfort and convenience for all campers.

• Family-Friendly Layout: While sites may be "smaller," the ability to accommodate groups and the overall positive experience suggest a layout that works well for families, allowing for an enjoyable group campout.

• Natural Beauty: The campground is nestled in a highly scenic area of Kentucky, offering lush forests, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning geological formations right outside your tent or RV.

As part of the Kentucky State Parks system, Whittleton Campground, like other state park facilities, may periodically offer various promotions or discounts. While specific, ongoing promotional offers are not typically detailed in general public information, it is always recommended for interested campers to check the official Kentucky State Parks website or contact the campground directly.

Common discounts and potential offers across Kentucky State Parks often include:

• Senior Citizen Discounts: Available for individuals aged 62 and above, typically requiring proof of age.

• AAA Membership Discounts: Many state parks offer a percentage off camping fees for valid AAA members.

• Military Discounts: Discounts are often provided for active and retired military personnel, with appropriate identification.

• Kentucky Resident Rates: Occasionally, specific rates or promotions may be offered exclusively to Kentucky residents for lodging or camping.

• Disabled Veterans Benefit: Kentucky residents who are 100% disabled service-connected veterans may be eligible for free camping stays for a limited number of nights annually.

• Seasonal or Package Deals: During off-peak seasons or for longer stays, the park system might offer reduced rates or special packages that could include camping and other park activities.

Always inquire about any current promotions when making your reservation or upon arrival to ensure you take advantage of any available savings.

Address: 2135 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, USA

Phone: (606) 663-2214

Mobile Phone: +1 606-663-2214

For reservations, current availability, and any specific questions regarding your stay, contacting Whittleton Campground directly via phone is the most efficient and reliable method. You can also typically make reservations online through the Kentucky State Parks website, which is often the preferred method for securing a site, especially during peak seasons.

Whittleton Campground is an exceptional destination for Kentuckians, offering a quintessential state park camping experience nestled in one of the state's most iconic natural regions. For residents across Kentucky, its location within Natural Bridge State Resort Park and immediate proximity to the Red River Gorge means that world-class hiking, climbing, and outdoor exploration are not just accessible, but literally at your fingertips. This makes it an ideal spot for a quick weekend getaway or a more extended outdoor vacation without the need for extensive travel.

The campground’s dedication to providing clean facilities, particularly the well-maintained bathrooms with hot showers, significantly enhances the comfort of your stay, making it suitable even for those who prefer a few more amenities while still enjoying the outdoors. The positive reviews consistently highlight the exceptional staff, like April, who go above and beyond to accommodate campers' needs, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment that reflects true Kentucky hospitality.

Furthermore, the unique feature of having direct access to "awesome" trails right from the campground means you can step out of your tent or RV and immediately immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're planning a family camping trip, a climbing expedition with friends, or a solo hiking adventure, Whittleton Campground provides the perfect base. It combines the peace and quiet of nature with convenient access to a vast array of recreational opportunities, ensuring that locals can fully experience and appreciate the natural wonders that Kentucky has to offer, creating lasting memories just a short drive from home.