If you're looking for glamping near Carlisle, look no further. Glamping is not only a fun alternative to traditional tent camping, but also allows you to pack more or less gear as you see fit. You're sure to find glamping for your Kentucky camping adventure.
Zilpo, a large, fun-filled campground on Cave Run Lake, is a prime destination for families. The scenic campground offers a cabin rental, tent camping, RV sites with electric hookups and a selection of lakefront sites. Views of the lake are enjoyed by those who relax on the sandy beach. Tater Knob, a fire tower open to the public, is nearby, offering outstanding views of the area.
Water skiing and swimming are wonderful ways to enjoy the lake. Muskie, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish attract avid anglers. Hikers are fans of the Zilpo Mountain Loop Trail that extends for 2.25 miles, connecting to a network of other trails around the lake. Nature programs are regularly scheduled during peak season and wildlife watching is rewarding.
Zilpo sits on a peninsula in the middle portion of Cave Run Lake at an elevation of 800 feet. The lake spans 8,270 acres with soft, sandy beaches. The campground is shaded by a stand of mixed hardwoods, and campsites have good privacy.
The nearest community is 12 miles away.
$28 - $94 / night
Nestled on the shores of Cave Run Lake, this camp is part of the larger Twin Knobs Recreation Area. There are more than 200 sites spread out over 10 loops under a dense forest of mixed conifer and deciduous trees. The recreation area includes two reservable group picnic areas. Group camping is also available.
Summer amphitheater programs and scheduled campground activities provide family fun and entertainment. The campground also has volleyball courts, basketball hoops and horseshoe pits. There is a boat ramp and beach. Popular lake activities include fishing, swimming, motor boating, windsurfing, sailing and water skiing. Scenic foot trails include the 2.5-mile Twin Knobs Shoreline Trail and the 1.5-mile Knob Overlook Trail.
The Daniel Boone National Forest embraces some of the most rugged terrain west of the Appalachian Mountains. The forest lies within the Cumberland Plateau, where steep forested slopes, sandstone cliffs and narrow ravines characterize the land in this region. Cave Run Lake is in the Cumberland District in the northernmost part of the forest. The lake is surrounded by the rolling hills of northeastern Kentucky.
The Morehead Office Visitor Center offers information about the Daniel Boone National Forest in addition to interpretive exhibits. A popular attraction within the Daniel Boone National Forest is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which features more than 100 natural sandstone arches.
$31 - $128 / night
Three Springs Campground, located just 10 miles south of the NEW Ark Encounter, has been family-owned and operated for over 54 years. The Heltons are the 4th family to own the park, situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mtns. The park boasts a protected ecosystem and brings "Nature" back to camping for those inclined to share in the beauty of the outdoors. Come see why Three Springs is so highly recommended!
$40 - $60 / night
Hidden deep under the northeast forests of Kentucky, strange formations with names like Giant Turkey, Headache Rock, and The Cathedral mingle with cave corals, underground waterfalls and thousands of endangered bats. This is what awaits visitors to Carter Caves State Resort Park, approximately 90 miles east of Lexington. The park was only established, and the cave environments protected, in 1946. Prior to this, the land—and caves—have a long and storied history. It begins millions of years ago, when North America was in its development stage, with the land rising and falling, cracking and washing away. This began forming the caves as seen today. Fast-forward to the 1800s, and the caves served as a resource during the War of 1812. Today however, this 2000-acre park—both above and below ground—serves as a recreation destination for campers and adventurers. The resort at Carter Caves offers a variety of overnight options, including camping, cottages and a lodge. Campers will find a large campground with 89 RV sites with utilities, 30 primitive tent sites, eight equestrian sites, and two bunkhouses. Most RV sites are back-in, and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 60 feet; bunkhouses can accommodate up to six people. The campground features bathhouses with showers, water faucets, picnic shelters, horse stables, and a playground. The park’s cottages are fully equipped with linens, cookware, and most have wood-burning fireplaces; these can accommodate up to eight people. The Lewis Caveland Lodge offers 28 rooms with full amenities, balconies and patios. Dogs are permitted in designated areas, and must remain leashed. Campsite rates are $18–$55/night; cottages and lodge rooms are $75–$240/night. The main attraction at Carter Caves State Resort Park is … the caves! There are six named caves in the park for exploring. Some are open year-round, some are only open during the summer. The park offers guided walking tours in four of the caves. Tours range from 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, and require some stair-climbing and stooping. There are also two caves open for self-exploration. These are undeveloped, and require visitors to provide their own light source. For the adventurous, there are also two cave crawling expeditions. These tours are three hours long, and explore tight, undeveloped passages that require lots of crawling, stooping and duck-walking in muddy conditions. For visitors who would rather stay and play above ground, the park features 26 miles of hiking trails, guided horseback rides, putt-putt golf, rock climbing, and fishing and paddling on Smoky Valley Lake.
Come visit our newly renovated 90 site campground in the heart of the Daniel Boone National Forest, just minutes from beautiful Cave Run Lake. Full hookup, 50 amp sites, pull through sites, pet and big rig friendly. Laundry, Bath, free wifi, and pool!
$30 - $75 / night
A.J. Jolly Park & Campground is an award-winning, 1000 acre park that offers 83 Camping Spots (47 of which have been improved with water and electric) and many outdoor activities. A.J. Jolly offers approximately 20 miles of trails to enjoy a day out on the horse. We are proud of our new stable and campground, which includes a new 28 stall barn, 12 site campground with water and electric, comfort station, dump station, pavilion with grills, and a playground.
Come visit our newly renovated 90 site campground in the heart of the Daniel Boone National Forest, just minutes from beautiful Cave Run Lake. Full hookup, 50 amp sites, pull through sites, pet and big rig friendly. Laundry, Bath, free wifi, and pool!
$30 - $75 / night
$55 / night
The campground is on 10 acres of tree lined frontage on the Red River. There is a mix of trees/shade and open fields. It is a primitive campground, meaning that there are no power hook-ups or running water. There is an excellent canoe/kayak take-out. It's location in the heart of the Gorge makes it the perfect place for riverside camping and provides access to hiking trails.
$8 - $20 / night
Cave Run Lake is nestled among the rolling hills of northeastern Kentucky. It is located on the Cumberland Ranger District of the Daniel Boone National Forest. This 8,270-acre lake provides flood protection and a clean water supply to area communities. Tourists enjoy the lake for its scenery and excellent recreation opportunities. Submit your photosthat capture your recreation experiences (fishing, hiking, camping, boating, etc) at Cave Run Lake. Cave Run Lake Area Map Boating, camping, fishing, hiking, hunting and wildlife viewing are some of the activities enjoyed by visitors. Recreation Areas Campgrounds: The Twin Knobs and Zilpo campgrounds provide nearly 400 campsites, some with RV hook-ups. The campgrounds also have swimming beaches and group-use picnic areas. Boat ramps: Cave Run Lake has 12 ramps for boat launching. A fee pass is required to use Alfrey, Claylick, Poppin Rock, Long Bow, Scott Creek and Warixboat ramps. Passes may be purchased at local vendors or at the Cumberland Ranger District office. Picnic areas: The Billy Branch and Boat Gunnel picnic areas are popular locations near Cave Run Lake. Trails: Several trails are developed in the Cave Run Lake area. These trails wind through the forest, providing scenic views and glimpses of wildlife. View information about Cave Run Lake Nonmotorized Trailsfor horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking around Cave Run Lake. Check out the Cumberland Ranger District Habitat map showing Pioneer Weapons WMA, Wildfire Activity Since 2010, Wildlife Openings, Timber Harvests Since 2010 and Constructed Wildlife Wetlands. Cumberland District Habitat MapView map at: https://usfs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=c58fc9969c96499a9be878aa79aba0e2 Some of the most popular recreation areas around Cave Run Lake include: Twin Knobs Recreation Area Zilpo Recreation Area For camping reservations call NATIONAL RECREATION RESERVATION SERVICE: 877-444-6777 or 877-833-6777 for hearing impaired. White Sulphur Horse Camp Clear Creek Recreation Area Clay Lick Boat-in Campground
Ranger
We actually camped at Boat Gunnel which is a part of Twin Knobs Campground. We love this campground because it is a private area with 4 RV hookups and approximately 10 tent sites. You rent the entire place for $125 or $130 a night. It is close to the water. We left our boats down on the bank. You have a "private" restroom and shower house. Occasionally you will get a hiker or someone coming through the trails that will use it. The only reason that it didn't score perfect is that the showers need some attention. There was mud along side the blacktop path that led down to the fire pit that was full of mosquito larvae and smelled. Easy fix, but had to keep the kids and dogs away from it constantly. My sister took a nasty fall on the trail down to the waters edge and that would be an easy fix to make that trail a little smoother. I know we are camping, but with the price, it is actually glamping. We like this place because it is easy for my aging parents to come down and visit. Great, large shelter also.
Guide
So most if the sites are large enough for 30 and larger RV’s but we’re designed by someone who was clueless. On the general setup of newer campers and motorhomes. Pad are about 12 x12 concrete so that’s a plus but the location of the pads if you want to use your RV awning means your wheels in what ever your using are goi g to be nearly off the level area or in the grass. Sites 7 11 10 3 are the best.the power for site 7 is on the wrong side so your going to need an extension possibly All the premium sites have 30/50 amp hook ups and water. Dump station is about 500 ft away. The equestrian sites are 500 ft away they are big enough for 30 ft trailers site 5 is ok but it’s pad is about 6 ft off the road between the sites. We have stayed at all the mentioned sites. Again not bad just weird setup. Bath house is new very clean closest to sites 10 12 11 9 and 7 they have a large covered area for events also in the Flatwood area most of the sites are on the lake front. Fishing is t to bad. The park has a golf course. The other side of the camp ground had 4 or so yurts for rental. And I believe this year may have cabins didn’t look know it’s in the works. The tent camping area is fairly large. Been years since we have done that type of camping. Great for pop up campers and campers smaller that 28 ft Ada access on the older side of the it’s close to shopping g for what ever you man need park is clean and well policed they also have canoe and some other rentals
Ranger
Nice caves & trails, but the campground is not best. Kentucky's sharing power poles make finding a level site with reachable power even tougher. Weekends are crazy crowded. Staff is friendly. Would never attempt to stay here without a reservaton.
Scout
My wife and I have been camping for years. We decided to come to Kentucky to visit the Ark and the Creation Museum. I found this little campground by joining The Dyrt. Three springs, was the best choice this summer. Very friendly staff and delivered my firewood next to the fire pit. Loaned me an electric cord extension and it was a delight to stay there.
Guide
We originally were going to stay at Twin Knobs Campbrougnd, but after some research, we decided to switch the reservation to Zilpo. Having recently moved to Kentucky from California was so happy to get to camp in another season besides summer. All the spots in the H Loop seemed like they would be great for a visit, but after walking around the whole section, we found H 26. It was a double spot with easy access to the lake and set up a beach fire for the night. The only issue was the bathroom nearest to us was shut down, but it really wasn't that much farther. Amazing seeing the Milky Way one evening.
TravelerBeen camping here for more than 40 years, as a kid we loved it, as an adult camping with kids, love it even more. A few of the sites we have stayed in recently are D011, G007, and I008. All were great, plenty of privacy, sites are far enough away that you don't feel right on top of each other but close enough to the amenities (trash, bathroom, etc.) that you don't feel lost in the wilderness!
This portion of Daniel Boone National Forest is peak beauty in the summer, the beautiful mature trees and well maintained sites make camping so much more enjoyable. The camp hosts are always helpful when needed but not overbearing. Amenities are near enough if you forget something, you'd never know staying here that there is a Walmart about 20 minutes away if you forget something important.
Get a site close to the water to bring your canoe/kayak or do some fishing from the shore. This is BY FAR our favorite place in Kentucky to camp. Happy Camping!
GuideRecently looked at staying at the RV Flat Woods section. They haven’t done any camping upgrades. To the RV section the electrical. Is on the wrong side if a few sites. So you will need 25 ft 50 amp extension cord. The sites are Not Paved. They are Nit full hook up most of the pads they poured are in the Wrong position for a 5th wheel. For 45.00 a night. Your better off going to anyone of the Kentucky or Ohio State parks. They do have canoe rentals. and a huge frisbee golf course. “Rolling eyes “ really. They spent money on upgrades. Mainly on planting grass and walking loops. The few RV sites. Are gravel. Un even un kevel. And Over priced hasn’t changed for the past 4 years other than the price going up. The park area fir day use is nice. Ball field upgraded. Boat ramp. Same location just upgraded. With better automatic gate. Again the park is nice. But the rv section SUX. Especially fir 45.00 a night plus
Guide
A great family get-away campground.
Great for a weekend or a whole summer. There are a lot of regular campers that come back all the time.
Family run and lots of amenities.
GuideWe pulled into the Outpost late evening, and easily found our reservations, clearly detailed map, and access codes. The pull through sites were all flat and oriented well. We were fully set up in 15 mins. There is a great, centrally located playground where the kids were able to run around after being in the truck for eight hours. The next morning I met the owner and she was a wonderful, nice person. Looking forward to staying again.d
Traveler
We stayed 5 nights at the Outpost and the owner was extremely nice! Brought me some fresh tomatoes and watermelon for my birthday! The campground was clean, the play ground needed a little attention when we first arrived but they filled in the holes and it made it so much more enjoyable for my 3 YO. The pool was a nice addition. The camp store has the essentials that you may need during your stay. Can't wait to come back!
ScoutVery full this weekend. Stayed 3nights as a rest point in our travels. Very clean and well laid out. Laundry was inexpensive and accessible all hours.
GuidePark is nice with lots of trees and water. Small rental cabins surround the park. Owners are very nice and very helpful with tips and suggestions for the RV, and local eateries. We stayed one night on our way south from Indy. We wanted to visit The Ark and The Creation Museum, but cannot do both in one day. I deducted a star from overall and value rating only due to no direct sewer connection. Although they do have a dump station, I prefer to have a direct hook-up. Sites are pretty level, although we did have to unhook to keep truck from sticking out into road. SInce the park wasn't full, the owners let us park our truck in site next to us. We stayed in our 38' travel trailer with our Ford F250 truck.
TravelerWe stayed at Three Springs from 8/14-8/18 2022.
It's a delightful little campground with great atmosphere. The owners are very sociable and easy to work with... All sites are back in, but the owners escort you to your site and guides you into your spot. The ride from the main road down to the campground is narrow and difficult if you meet another vehicle, but most understand the Check-in and Check-out hours, so it's not much of an issue. The owners are currently renovating and upgrading several aspects of the park and adding a Laundry for campers.
Definitely on my "will stay again" list of campgrounds.
GuideQuiet lil place clean showers and bathrooms extremely friendly staff who will go out of their way to help you set up. (Was offered hoses and power cords if needed). I stayed in 4A and leveled with ease . It’s a back In Only but they are there with you to guide. Dog friendly which is a big bonus. Has some on site cats too. We are 36 class A but had many different sites available and some great looking primitive sites as well. We will be back to relax and get back to nature.
GuideThis is a small campground with only one bath house. They are working to make improvements. It’s nice and quiet here. We are staying here so we can go to the Ark Encounter. Not a lot of camping available around here.
TravelerWe stopped for one night on our way home. This is a really cute little campground. Nice bath house. Sites are level and right next to a little stream. Hiking trails and close to I 75. Highly recommend.
TravelerIt wasn’t exactly rustic but you couldn’t ask for much more just 10 miles from the ark . They have a few hiking trails and a creek the kids caught crawfish in.
ScoutThis is a super clean campground. Like amazingly maintained. If you are looking for a family campground I wouldn't stay here. This is not a kid friendly place. There is not space for them to run around. There is supposed to be a playground but there isn't which is why I did 4 stars.
If you want somewhere clean, to stay in your camper or just in a chair right outside, This is perfect. If you need somewhere to be for a night to leave the next day it's great.
It's not a good campground to explore or do anything at. Not a good one for kids under the age of 16, there is just nothing to do. When we were here 2 if the 3 trails were closed. We won't stay here again because it just isn't a good fit for us. But if you aren't looking for a family campground, then this is probably ideal for you.
ScoutCampground is nothing special but was okay. Owners were very friendly and came by to make sure our fire wood was burning nicely (which it was!). No swimming pool, but it was advertised that the pool was closed. If the owners make some improvements it has potential to be a nice campground.
ScoutEnjoying our stay. Owners are updating as we speak and have many more planned. No sewer hookups but have a dump station on site and honey wagon service at trailer for a fee if needed. Tent camping also available. Well off highway so. I road noise to deal with, just lots of squirrels and chipmunks.
ScoutThe staff tried to be helpful but the facilities were lacking in many areas.
TravelerA very quiet place to camp. Thay will help you If you need help. We really enjoyed the piece an quiet.
GuideI decided to drive by on a roadtrip to see if I could spend the night before continuing on in the morning. The dates were not populating on the reservation website and no one answered the phone, so I just drove in around 10. There were plenty of people still out and about and the bath house was lit up. I drove around one time trying to scope out an empty tent site where I wouldn't disturb anyone. I looked at both tenting areas and either would have been pleasant. The campground was pretty full with only a few spots left. There was a large church group. Nice flat ground with lush grass. I chose a spot at the end of the lot past the RV Loop and I could see a ton of stars and let the sounds of the night lull me to sleep. Very quiet and it was still that way when I packed up before 6 the next morning. The office didn't open until 9 , so I left some cash in the door. I didn't explore anything other than the bath house and the general layout. Seemed to be very well maintained, clean, quiet, and certainly convenient just minutes off the interstate. I wasn't sure I was going the right way at first as you go through a patch of rough neighborhood before arriving at the property.
ScoutFinal approach/exit to the park is very steep. Beautiful sites but fairly close together. Gravelled roads and pads surrounded by forest with three small streams cutting through. Sites are not particularly level. Bathrooms are clean and the hosts are attentive. The only trash bin is near the office by the out of service pool.
ScoutSites too close together. Clean showers and restrooms. Not much for a family to do.
No playground for the kiddos, a small water hole for catch-and-release fishing.
Really nice for off-site attractions (Creation Museum, Ark Encounter)
No The Dyrt discount, Did offer Senior and Museum discount of 10%
GuideWell kept campground with a pond. Bathrooms were well maintained and clean. Lots of stars at night!
TravelerThe campground is very well maintained. It’s quite and tucked away. Nature trails, ponds for relaxing and watching the wildlife or fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Carlisle, KY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Carlisle, KY is Zilpo Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 49 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Carlisle, KY?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 glamping camping locations near Carlisle, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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