Camper Van and Class B Rentals in Kentucky

Kentucky isn't just horses and bourbon (though those are pretty great). This is a state where you can spelunk through the world's longest cave system in the morning, rock climb 100-foot sandstone cliffs by afternoon, and camp under natural stone arches by sunset. The Bluegrass State packs serious travel inspiration between Louisville's urban bourbon scene and Appalachia's rugged eastern edge.

Rent a camper van and you'll unlock free dispersed camping in Daniel Boone National Forest, waterfront sites at dozens of state parks, and the freedom to chase fall colors through winding mountain roads. No hotel check-ins, no restaurant bills piling up, just you, the open road, and Kentucky’s hidden gems to explore.

1. How Much Does a Camper Van Rental Cost in Kentucky?

Budget conversions start at $100-$175 nightly. Expect a basic sleeping setup and kitchen gear, but likely not much else. Mid-range vans with bathrooms and better amenities run $175-$200 per night. Luxury Mercedes Sprinters hit $200-$400 nightly with full wet baths, solar, and premium finishes.

Louisville has the biggest selection, just below Cincinnati second. Neither has a ton, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.

Most include 100-150 miles daily ($0.25-$0.35/mile overage). Insurance adds $25-$40/day.

Related Blog Post: How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Conversion Van

2. What's Included in a Typical Kentucky Camper Van Rental?

Most sleep 2-4 people with fixed beds or convertible dinettes. Kitchen setups typically include two-burner stoves, small fridges/coolers, and basic cookware. Mid-range vans add sinks.

Bedding often costs extra ($25-$50) unless included. Always confirm beforehand.

Bathrooms vary: budget vans skip them, mid-range might include portable toilets, luxury Sprinters have full wet baths.

With some you may also be able to get extra camping and adventure equipment like camp chairs, tents, a bike rack, coffee maker, and other bonus items for a luxury camper experience. It’s always good to double check the listing description and confirm with the host before booking.

3. Where Can I Pick Up a Sleeper Van Rental in Kentucky?

Louisville (Muhammad Ali International Airport) is going to be your best bet for more options and airport convenience. This is ideal for fly-and-drive trips.

There are a few in smaller towns and suburbs, but not a ton. If you’re having trouble finding exactly what you want, you may want to widen your search to Ohio or Tennessee.

Many owners offer airport pickup or delivery, but double-check. One-way rentals are possible, but expect relocation fees.

4. What Size RV Works Best for Kentucky Roads?

In short, any size works. I-65 and I-75 have wide lanes and ample truck stops.

That being said, Class B vans (under 22 feet) excel in tight Louisville streets and Bourbon Trail distillery parking. Most distilleries have ample space, but downtown locations favor smaller rigs.

Red River Gorge Scenic Byway (KY-715) is a winding two-lane road. Bigger rigs should take turns slower but handle it fine. Mammoth Cave accommodates RVs up to 40 feet with well-maintained access roads.

Related blog post: How to Choose the Right Campervan Rental for Your Adventure

5. What's the Best Route for a Kentucky Sprinter Van Loop Trip?

A solid 5-7 day loop hits Kentucky's highlights:

• Louisville (Days 1-2): Urban Bourbon Trail, Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville Slugger Museum. Camp at Louisville South KOA.

• Bardstown/Bourbon Trail (Day 3): Maker's Mark, Jim Beam, Heaven Hill distilleries. Camp at My Old Kentucky Home State Park.

• Mammoth Cave (Day 4): Cave tours (book ahead). Camp at Mammoth Cave Campground.

• Red River Gorge (Days 5-6): Natural Bridge hikes, sandstone cliffs, Nada Tunnel. Camp at Koomer Ridge or Callie's Campground.

• Lexington (Day 7): Old Frankfort Pike through horse farms. Camp at Kentucky Horse Park campground.

Total driving: approximately 460 miles. Mammoth to Red River Gorge is the longest at a little under 3 and a half hours.

6. Can I Do the Bourbon Trail in a Conversion Van?

Absolutely! All major distilleries (Maker's Mark, Jim Beam, Woodford Reserve, Wild Turkey) have large parking lots for RVs.

Downtown Louisville distilleries (Evan Williams, Angel's Envy) favor smaller vans under 22 feet.

Never drink and drive. Camp within 10-15 miles and use rideshare. My Old Kentucky Home State Park in Bardstown sits perfectly between distilleries.

Public tours run $15-35, lasting 60-90 minutes, but you’ll find custom tours and private options for $150+. Book ahead for spring/fall weekends.

Kentucky law prohibits alcohol in state park campgrounds. Stay at private campgrounds to enjoy distillery purchases.

7. What's the Best Time to Visit Red River Gorge?

It depends what you’re going for, but general spring and fall will be your best bet!

Spring (April-May): Wildflowers bloom, temps hit 60-75°F, and waterfalls flow strong. Weekends get crowded with climbers. Ticks become active in late April.

Fall (September-October): Best time hands down. Temps of 60-80°F, stunning fall colors peak in mid-October, and crowds thin after Labor Day. Book campgrounds ahead for October weekends.

Summer (June-August): Hot and humid with temperatures reaching 85-95°F. Good for swimming holes but not much else and bring bug spray. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Winter (November-March): Cold with temps 30-50°F. Many campgrounds close, but dispersed camping stays open. Ice climbing is popular for experienced climbers.

Climbing season runs year-round, but spring and fall offer ideal conditions.

8. Where Can I Find Dump Stations in Kentucky?

State park campgrounds all have dump stations that are free for campers and $10 for everyone else.

Mammoth Cave National Park campground has dump stations ($5-$10 for non-campers).

Private campgrounds (KOAs, Jellystone parks) charge $10-$20 for non-guests.

Love's and Pilot Flying J truck stops on I-65/I-75 offer dumps for $10-$15.

Some Walmarts in Bowling Green, Louisville, and Lexington allow dumping but ask management first.

Related blog post: Do Camper Vans Have Bathrooms?

9. Do Kentucky State Parks Allow Overnight RV Parking?

Yes, but only in designated campgrounds with reservations—not in day-use areas or trailheads.

My Old Kentucky Home, Cumberland Falls, Natural Bridge, and 20+ other state parks have RV sites and campgrounds with hookups.

10. What Wildlife Should I Watch for While Camping in Kentucky?

White-tailed deer cause most vehicle accidents, especially from October to December. Drive carefully at dawn and dusk in particular.

Black bears live in the eastern mountains (Red River Gorge, Cumberland Falls) so store food in locked vehicles and never leave coolers out overnight.

Ticks are serious April-October. Lone Star ticks (white dot) are most common, deer ticks carry Lyme disease. Check yourself thoroughly after hiking. Wear long pants tucked into socks, use permethrin on clothes.

Copperhead snakes blend into leaves. Watch your step—they're not aggressive but will strike if stepped on.

Bald eagles winter at major lakes from November to March. Bring binoculars for excellent viewing.

Ready for a Kentucky Adventure?

Cave explorers, bourbon enthusiasts, rock climbers, and history buffs all find something special in the Bluegrass State. From underground passages to towering sandstone cliffs, Kentucky delivers outdoor adventure without the western crowds. Reserve your camper van with altCamp today!

Also search nearby rentals in Indiana, West Virginia, and Virginia.