RV Rental Clay City, KY

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Situated on the western edge of the immense Daniel Boone National Forest, Clay City is a lively town in the heart of Kentucky. It was first settled by Europeans in 1786 after pyrite was discovered and an iron forge was quickly established, eventually becoming the Red River Iron Works.

Clay City’s proximity to a vast range of recreational pursuits and the bustling hub of Lexington make it an ideal place to rent an RV. It’s well-served by family-friendly campgrounds while being just under two hours’ drive from Louisville.

Discover Clay City


The Great Outdoors

Book an RV rental in Clay City and drive east to the Daniel Boone National Forest, which sprawls across 708,000 acres along the Cumberland Plateau. It’s named after the legendary explorer Daniel Boone who settled what is now Kentucky and is divided into numerous state parks and wilderness areas that offer plenty of recreational opportunities. There are around 600 miles of multi-use trails to explore, including part of the 323-mile-long Sheltowee Trace Trail that extends between Kentucky and Tennessee.

Within the bounds of the Daniel Boone National Forest is the Natural Bridge State Resort Park, which centers around a natural sandstone arch that spans 78 feet. Highlights of the park include the half-mile Original Trail that dates to the 1890s, as well as the narrow passage known as “Fat Man’s Squeeze” and the “Lovers Leap” rock formation. Don’t miss a visit to the “Balanced Rock” that seemingly appears to be teetering on its edge and is considered one of the most impressive examples of a pedestal rock east of the Rocky Mountains.

Also nearby is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which has been designed as a National Natural Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It boasts more than 100 natural sandstone arches and spectacular sandstone cliffs that have made it one of the top rock climbing destinations in the United States. Stop in at the Gladie Visitor Center to learn about the area’s geology and cultural history, then pick up a hiking map to explore the trails that lead to the park’s waterfalls and rock formations.

RV Parks

Pick up your campervan in Clay City and head east to the 4 Guys RV Park at the Gorge, which is perfectly situated between the Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Park. It’s big rig-friendly and offers 30/50 amp service with sewer and water, together with a swimming pool and Wi-Fi.

Also nearby is the Natural Bridge Campground, a peaceful and pet-friendly RV destination that offers both shaded and open sites. There’s Wi-Fi access and firewood available, and the campground is near a catch-and-release fishing pond and numerous hiking trails.

Slightly closer to Clay City is Callies Lake And Campground In Red River Gorge where you’ll find an attractive selection of lakeside RV sites. They offer 30 or 50 amp service with full hookups (or with water and electric hookups), as well as fire rings and picnic tables.

You can also make the 20-minute drive to Mount Sterling where there’s a Walmart where you may be able to park the Clay City RV rental for a night or two with the manager’s permission.

Exploring the City

Park your RV rental near Clay City and wander through the town, stopping at the Red River Museum which details the history of Powell County. It’s a treasure trove of antiques and artifacts that include railroad memorabilia and taxidermied animals, as well as old photographs of the city. It occupies the former Clay City National Bank building that was constructed in 1875, with numerous outbuildings where additional treasures are exhibited.

Clay City is also home to Furnace Mountain, a Buddhist center and retreat that forms part of the Kwan Um School of Zen. It centers around a traditional Korean Buddhist temple that nestles amidst the wooded landscapes of the Daniel Boone National Forest, creating an undeniably serene atmosphere. Call in advance if you’d like to visit the Buddhist center and explore their surrounding permaculture garden or attend one of the regularly scheduled retreats.

If you’re a fan of bluegrass music, don’t miss a visit to the Meadowgreen Park Music Hall, which hosts live bands most weekends. It was established around 30 years ago to showcase local bands but quickly attracted touring bluegrass musicians from across the United States. Settle into the barn-style venue with a home-cooked meal while enjoying the live entertainment.

Clay City has a grocery store where you can pick up supplies, as well as a couple of eateries for dining out. There is also a gas station if you need to fill up your motorhome rental in Clay City.

Whether you’re visiting Powell County for its magnificent rock formations or bluegrass music, book an RV in Clay City and start exploring.

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Popular nearby hiking trails and campgrounds


  • Hiking TrailLocation
  • Pilot Knob Trail, KYClay City, KY
  • Blackburn Rock Overlook, KYFrenchburg, KY
  • Star Gap Arch Trail, KYDaniel Boone National Forest, KY
  • Double Arch Trail, KYDaniel Boone National Forest, KY
  • Courthouse Rock Trail, KYDaniel Boone National Forest, KY
  • Auxier Branch Trail To Double Arch Trail, KYDaniel Boone National Forest, KY
  • Auxier Ridge Trail, KYDaniel Boone National Forest, KY
  • Sand Gap Loop, KYNatural Bridge State Park, KY
  • Rough Trail, KYDaniel Boone National Forest, KY
  • Natural Bridge and Battleship Rock Trail, KYNatural Bridge State Park, KY

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