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If you are looking for a new way to experience the outdoors and expand your camping repertoire, then Kentucky boat-in campsites are a great option. These remote campgrounds can be reached by boating in and offer the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a way you've never experienced before. Find the best information on boat-in camping in Kentucky, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience.

Kentucky

The Best Boat-In Camping in Kentucky

Ahoy! Do you want to explore the best boat-in camping Daniel Boone National Forest has to offer? Don't miss the chance to enjoy some of the best campgrounds right on the water. Search nearby boat-in campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Daniel Boone National Forest

The Best Boat-In Camping Near Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

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. Natural Features: 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. Recreation: 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. Facilities: Electric hookups are provided at some campsites. Drinking water is located centrally within the loops. Flush toilets and showers are spread throughout the campground as well. Each site has a picnic table and campfire ring. A dump station and concrete boat ramp are also included. Each of the 12 cabins can accommodate up to six guests. They each have a table, two chairs and a sleeping area with two sets of bunk beds (4 beds). A picnic table, lantern post and campfire ring are provided outside. Pets may reside only in cabins 41,120,121 and 123. Cabins 109, 123 and 136 have ramps that can accommodate wheel chairs. A campground store with ice, firewood, camping gear and food is on-site. Roads are paved and level tent pads are gravel. Nearby Attractions: The nearest community is 12 miles away. ACTIVITIES Boating Historic & Cultural Site: Historic Sites Hiking Swimming Site

Zilpo Campground

## Overview

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.

## Recreation

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.

## Facilities

There is a variety of different camp sites that include paved spurs that can accommodate any size RV, picnic tables, fire rings and grills. Some sites have electric hookups.  
  
Facilities include bathhouses with showers, drinking water and flush toilets. The bathhouses and some picnic areas are accessible.

## Natural Features

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. 

## Nearby Attractions

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.

Twin Knobs Recreation Area

## Overview

Boat Gunnel Group Campground is located in the Daniel Boone National Forest on Cave Run Lake. Widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities, Cave Run Lake is home to Kentucky's state record Muskie. This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. 

## Recreation

Nearby Twin Knobs Campground offers a boat ramp and beach.  
  
Scenic foot trails in the area include the Boat Gunnel Shoreline Trail, the Oak Ridge Trail and the Wildlife Trail. 

## Facilities

Boat Gunnel Group Campground offers a bathhouse with flush toilets and showers, picnic shelter, horseshoe pit and drinking water. The camping area accommodates large groups and is available by reservation only. The picnic shelter is equipped with a grill, serving table and electricity.

## Natural Features

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. 

## Nearby Attractions

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.

Daniel Boone National Forest Boat Gunnel Group Campground

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

Cave Run Lake

Paragon is a primitive camping area with 7 designated campsites, some with lantern posts and fire rings. Alert: August 21, 2019 - The U.S. Forest Service opened a section of Paragon Road on Friday, August 16, 2019. The gate closest to Highway 519 was opened and motor vehicles will be able to drive to the first two loops commonly used for camping, swimming, and fishing. The new gate has been installed to allow vehicle access into the area while road work and repairs continue. The new gate will also allow the two camping loops to remain open when Cave Run Lake is 1.5 to 2 feet above summer pool and inundating the lowest portions of Paragon Road, which has occurred many times in the last decade and resulted in closure of the entire road and camping area. Make this page look nicer by submitting photos of your trip to this area. Learn more... The campground is located on the Cumberland Ranger District, Daniel Boone National Forest. Cave Run Lake is widely known for its scenic beauty and varied outdoor recreation opportunities. The lake is also the home of Kentucky's state record muskie.This 8,270-acre lake is jointly operated and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Forest Service. Nearby facilities: Poppin Rock Boat Ramp

Paragon Dispersed Camping Area

Make the most of your trip to the Natural Bridge Campground in Kentucky with Natural Bridge cabin rentals or delight in the mountainside beauty of Hemlock Lodge, one of 17 state park lodges in Kentucky. The 35 rooms of Hemlock Lodge have private balconies. Open year-round. Rooms are available by late afternoon. Lodge room check-out by 11:00am, local time. We are now pet friendly. No more than two pets are allowed per room/cottage. 

Enjoy the great outdoors in a park campsite. Two campgrounds, Whittleton Campground and Middle Fork Campground, provide 87 sites with utilities. Tent campsites are also available. Dump stations and two central service buildings with restrooms and showers are furnished for your convenience.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

Koomer Ridge Campground, located on Cumberland Ranger District in the Red River Gorge, features semi-primitive camping in a tranquil forest setting. The campground provides access to trails in the Red River Gorge. View Koomer Ridge guide & map. The campground amphitheater opens Memorial Day weekend and features a program each Saturday through Labor Day. The programs usually begin at dusk. Check the campground bulletin board or contact the Gladie Visitor Center for more information. Hiking/backpacking trails in the area: Cliff Trail #206 (.5 mile) Koomer Ridge Trail #220 (2.75 miles) Silvermine Arch Trail #225 (1.5 miles) Hidden Arch Trail #208 (1 mile). ACTIVITIES Camping: The Koomer Ridge Campground features semi-primitive camping in a tranquil forest setting. Interpretive Programs: Visitor programs are held on weekends. Recreational Vehicles

Koomer Ridge Campground

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. 


Carter Caves State Resort Park

## Overview

Grayson Lake Dam Site Shelters are just seven miles south of Grayson, Kentucky on state Route 7 on Grayson Lake. Recreational activities abound on and around this 20-mile long lake. Boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding and hunting are the areas most popular draws.

#### Natural Features:

Grayson Lake is known for its sculptured sandstone cliffs that rise 30 to 200 feet above the lakes surface, providing many narrow, scenic canyons just waiting to be explored.  
  
The gently sloping landscape around the lake is forested with a mixture of oak, white and yellow pine, elm, and Kentuckys state tree, the Tulip Poplar. Fall colors are particularly impressive at Grayson Lake.

#### Recreation:

Visitors flock to Grayson Lake for its numerous recreational opportunities, including boating, canoeing, swimming, and fishing for bass, crappie, catfish and bluegill. A marina is located at the dam site for convenient boat storage.  
  
Hikers enjoy the Api-su-ahts Trail, with four loops totaling over 22 miles. The trail offers scenic views of the lakeshore and mature hardwood forests as it winds through creek bottoms, hollows and ridgetops in the more secluded region of the Wildlife Management Area east of Grayson Lake.

#### Facilities:

This site contains four group picnic shelters with water and 15-amp electrical hookups, large grills and picnic tables. Accessible vault toilets are provided, though the toilets near Shelter #2 are not accessible.   
  
A playground for family-friendly entertainment is located near Shelter #2. 

#### Nearby Attractions:

The Grayson Game Refuge Area and Wildlife Management Area are both nearby, offering hiking, hunting, birding and fishing.   
  
Grayson Lake State Park is just a few minutes away, with an 18-hole golf course, camping, hiking and more great water activities.

Grayson Lake Damsite Shelters

This recreation area is part of Paintsville Lake

Paintsville Lake State Park

Are you in need of a campground near Louisville, KY? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Louisville

The Best Camping Near Louisville, Kentucky

Lexington-Fayette is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Lexington-Fayette, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Lexington-Fayette

The Best Camping Near Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky

Searching for the best camping near Ironville, KY? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Ironville, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Ironville

The Best Camping Near Ironville, Kentucky

Looking for the best campgrounds near Meads, KY? Meads is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Meads

The Best Camping Near Meads, Kentucky

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Lexington, KY has a lot to offer. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Lexington campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Lexington, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Lexington

The Best Camping Near Lexington, Kentucky

Bowling Green, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Bowling Green campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Bowling Green camping trip.

Bowling Green

The Best Camping Near Bowling Green, Kentucky

Owensboro is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Owensboro is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Owensboro, reviewed by campers like you.

Owensboro

The Best Camping Near Owensboro, Kentucky

Looking for the best campgrounds near Hopkinsville, KY? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Hopkinsville, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Hopkinsville and user-submitted reviews.

Hopkinsville

The Best Camping Near Hopkinsville, Kentucky

Looking for the best campgrounds near Pleasure Ridge Park, KY? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Pleasure Ridge Park campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Pleasure Ridge Park, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Pleasure Ridge Park

The Best Camping Near Pleasure Ridge Park, Kentucky

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Paducah. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Paducah. Find the best campgrounds near Paducah, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Paducah

The Best Camping Near Paducah, Kentucky

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY has a lot to offer. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, KY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky

Daniel Boone National Forest, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Daniel Boone National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Daniel Boone National Forest, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

The Best Camping Near Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Kentucky camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky

Of the six parks in the Bluegrass State, Mammoth Cave is the only true national park. This area of southwestern Kentucky holds the best outdoor activities to be found in the state.

There are a large number of campsites across a few campgrounds, and Mammoth Cave Campground holds most of them. Both Mammoth Cave and Maple Springs Campgrounds are accessible for RVs. Backcountry camping is also available for interested hikers. The caves are, of course, the big draw, and no matter where you stay, you should take a cave tour. Since there are no nearby forests or BLM land, the best camping near Mammoth Cave National Park is fairly far away at the Green River Lake Wildlife Management Area. If you can’t get a spot in the park, staying in nearby Park City or Brownsville, KY, is the best choice.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Mammoth Cave National Park, KY has a lot to offer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Mammoth Cave National Park, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Mammoth Cave National Park, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Grayson Lake, KY has a lot to offer. Grayson Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Grayson Lake, KY. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Grayson Lake

The Best Camping Near Grayson Lake, Kentucky

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Lake Cumberland. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kentucky camping adventure.

Lake Cumberland

The Best Camping Near Lake Cumberland, Kentucky

Barkley Lake, KY is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Barkley Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Barkley Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Barkley Lake

The Best Camping Near Barkley Lake, Kentucky

Join the fun near Buckhorn Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Kentucky camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Buckhorn Lake camping trip.

Buckhorn Lake

The Best Camping Near Buckhorn Lake, Kentucky

Join the fun near Dale Hollow Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Dale Hollow Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Dale Hollow Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Dale Hollow Lake

The Best Camping Near Dale Hollow Lake, Kentucky

Join the fun near Carr Creek Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Carr Creek Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Carr Creek Lake, KY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

THE BEST Boat-In CAMPING NEARDaniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

About Daniel Boone National Forest Boat-In Camping

Top Daniel Boone National Forest Boat-In Campgrounds